behind the scenes

A lifelong horseperson and proud Union Vale, NY resident, Leah has been a successful competitor, trainer and instructor for more than 45years. When not riding or teaching, Leah could be found in the veterinary clinics making rounds and assisting. Keeping horses in peak health and comfort tops her priority list.

• Diversified, extensive and successful equestrian background, in English (Hunt Seat Equitation, Hunters, Jumpers, Ponies), Western (Pleasure & Performance) and Driving.
• Consistently turning out Championship and winning riders and horses on a local, Regional and National level.
• Earned recognition receiving ‘Trainer of the Year’, ‘Leader Achievement’ and ‘Community Service’ awards for more than three decades from various horse organizations. 
• Recognized APHA Professional Horsemen (woman) & Ambassador

With decades of diversified equine experience, Leah Struzzieri, has been nationally recognized as one of the top Senior Certified Equine Appraisers working for the Nation’s leading horse valuation firm, Sterling Equine Appraisals. She has earned her Lifetime Accredited Affiliation from the American Society of Equine Appraisals which requires her to maintain strict compliance with Federal and State rules and regulations. Leah has been a top pick as an authorized provided by the IRS and FDIC. She has provided legal consult and expert witness testimony for more than twenty years. Leah has more than forty years of equine experience and involvement within the horse industry to bring valuable insight to any team. 

• Former, APHA Equestrian Experience Committee Member
• Featured presenter for Equine Affaire, coast-to-coast 
• Former Treasurer for Dutchess County Horse program
• Former, Horse Advisory, Regional and State
• Former, DC CCE Clinician & Leader

Leah took an active role, lending insight and expertise to the NYS Equine Economic Summit and NYS Equine Tourism campaign. It was during this time that Leah made a pivotal life change and began creating, writing and developing what is known today as, PONYSITTERS, offered exclusively at JL Performance Horses. 

• Member, AQHA, APHA, USEF, NYSHC, TYMOR, HVHA, USPC Alumni
• Member, Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce
• Member, Women's Alliance HV Business Group

Today, Leah continues to live in Union Vale, NY on what was her childhood home. The walls of her home are lined with memories, ribbons and photos of horses and students from the past and present. Many are inscribed with messages of appreciation for her guidance. Ask her anything about anyone of the 100’s of photos and she can instantly tell you when, the location, along with the names of those pictured. 

• Certified, APHA Professional Horseman (woman) 
• International APHA Ambassador
• Certified, Olympic US Center for Safesport
• Certified, BSA Child Protection
• Certified, Professional Riding Instructor
• Certified, Professional Horsemanship Instructor (mounted/unmounted)
• Certified, Girl/Boy Scout Horsemanship Merit Badge Instructor
• Certified, Conflict Resolution Mediation Certification 
• Senior Certified Equine Appraiser, IRS & FDIC authorized provider
• Professional Equine Advocate, Animal Defense, ASPCA, Cornell U, UC Davis
• Professional Consultant, Equine Business, Equine Litigation, Equine Welfare
• Publisher, The Horse Source Magazine, print & online publication

Leah manages the day to day operations of the farm, and remains active at the local, State and National levels within the equine industry, including the farm's Horse Outreach Programs, raising equine awareness and the benefits of the horse/human relationship. She enjoys volunteering her time mentoring aspiring young professionals and the farm's interns. 

JL Performance Horses LLC is a NYS Certified Woman Owned Small Business.  Leah continues to build on the JL Performance Horses' legacy and remains dedicated to passing on the tradition of excellence through good horsemanship producing quality horses for show & recreational purposes and capable & knowledgeable horsepeople. 

She is recognized as a leader, accomplished equestrian & trainer and as a well-respected equine professional.   Contact Leah

When he's not judging, Michael Dunn can be found at JL Performance Horses giving riding lessons and riding horses at JL Performance Horses. His cowboy charisma and clear communications will have you feeling confident as you put your foot in the stirrup whether you’re a returning rider, experienced equestrian or a first-timer. 

Michael’s attention to detail and equestrian accomplishments make him a highly sought after instructor, showman and respected horse show judge. He is an active member of the  American Ranch Horse Association and on the Board of Directors for Eastern Mountain Ranch Horse Association. He is a SUNY Cobleskill alumni gradate and the creator/owner of  MDesigns - Silk Wild Rags, Silk Scarves and Silk Ties. 

Michael has decades of professional experience in training, riding, coaching and successfully showing Quarter Horses and Appaloosas in Halter, Showmanship, Hunter Under Saddle, Western Pleasure, Trail, Ranch Riding and more.  Students finds his 'From the Judge's View' classes exceptionally beneficial to being properly prepared for competition.  

Internationally recognized judge and professional horseman, Kennis 'Buttons' Fairfax, provides periodic clinics and workshops at JL Performance Horses.