Kristin Barreto
The right horse for the right rider.
The PepperTree philosophy
Orange County native. Professional since 1999. A trainer with an eye for the right horse for the right rider.
A life measured in partnerships.
- Chapter I · Roots
A show career that began at seven.
An Orange County native, Kristin Barreto began riding alongside her mother at a young age and launched her show career at just seven years old. As a junior rider, she competed successfully in the hunter and equitation divisions at shows throughout California, while also remaining an active member of Pony Club and Orange County IEL.
- Chapter II · Going professional
From the amateur ranks to the professional ring.
Kristin continued her success in the junior and adult amateur divisions before transitioning to a professional career in 1999. Since then, she has built an extensive show record at both local and nationally recognized competitions. Along the way, she has found a trusted mentor and friend in Morley Abey, who continues to coach her today.
- Chapter III · A program of one
Every rider, every horse, their own plan.
By her early twenties, Kristin had developed the experience and skillset to establish herself as a professional trainer. At PepperTree Equestrian, she takes a highly individualized approach, working closely with each client to design a tailored training program that supports both the rider’s development and the horse’s capabilities. These programs are thoughtfully reviewed and adjusted on a quarterly basis to ensure continued growth and success.
- Chapter IV · Beyond the ring
A foundation bigger than the next class.
Kristin’s training philosophy extends beyond the show ring. In addition to competition goals, she encourages participation in developmental opportunities such as the USHJA Emerging Athletes Program and clinics with leading professionals, helping riders build a well-rounded and competitive foundation.
- Chapter V · The right match
Sourced across the United States and Europe.
A strong advocate for the importance of a well-matched partnership, Kristin has a keen eye for sourcing the right horse for each rider. With extensive knowledge of the international horse market, she regularly travels throughout the United States and Europe to acquire top-quality horses capable of competing successfully in today’s show ring.
From a seven-year-old’s first class to a barn of her own.
- 01Age 7
First show
Riding alongside her mother from a young age, Kristin launched her show career at seven.
- 02Junior
Hunters & equitation
Competing throughout California, and an active member of Pony Club and Orange County IEL.
- 031999
Turns professional
After success in the junior and adult amateur divisions, Kristin begins her professional career.
- 042013
PepperTree Equestrian
Established at San Juan Equestrian Center, in the front section of the Sycamore barn.
- 05Mentor
Morley Abey
First a teenager’s nervous questions, then clinics, now coaching and a lasting friendship.
- 06Today
Train hard, ride happy
Individual programs, reviewed every quarter, from the Sycamore barn in San Juan Capistrano.
Some of the most influential people in our lives are those who remain present through different chapters of our journey. For me, Morley Abey is one of those people.
I first met Morley as a teenager, walking from Sycamore Trails through Rio Vista, where he and Joie Gatlin were running a very successful training business. I remember Morley as friendly and approachable, and every so often, I would nervously work up the courage to stop and ask him a question. No matter how busy he was, he always seemed willing to pause, chat, and offer advice. I doubt he realized at the time how much those brief conversations meant to me.
Years later, after establishing PepperTree Equestrian, our paths crossed again when Morley began coming to Sycamore Trails to teach clinics. My assistant at the time, Jackie Lefave, and I always looked forward to participating, jumping a few courses, and absorbing whatever knowledge Morley had to share.
Then, several years later, I happened to run into him again. This time, I simply asked,
Kristin“Hey, would you come over and coach me?”
Without hesitation, he replied,
Morley“Absolutely!”
That moment marked the beginning of not only a wonderful coaching relationship but also a lasting friendship.
Over the years, Morley has offered invaluable insight into my riding. Often, it is the simplest pointer that makes the biggest difference. More than anything, though, I appreciate his ability to instill confidence. Sometimes, all you need is someone on the ground reminding you,
“You’ve got this!”
Morley has always been that person for me.
Beyond the riding arena, he has become someone I can turn to for advice, perspective, or simply a chance to bounce ideas around. There is something incredibly valuable about having someone in your corner who has truly been there, done that, and understands the challenges of this industry.
Since relocating PepperTree Equestrian to San Juan Equestrian Center, I have especially enjoyed the opportunity to work more closely with Morley. Whether we are discussing footing, jumps, facility improvements, or the everyday realities of running a training business, there is always something valuable to exchange—and usually a good laugh along the way.
Looking back, it feels pretty special to realize that the man I was once nervous to approach as a teenager has become someone I consider a trusted mentor and dear friend.
Thank you, Morley, for always being generous with your knowledge, honest with your advice, and encouraging along the way. Your mentorship and friendship mean more to me than you probably realize.
No matter how many years you have spent in the saddle, there is always something to learn—and having someone who continues to challenge, encourage, and believe in you is a gift.
KristinKristin Barreto · PepperTree Equestrian
