About Us

Zella Schnitzspahn is the owner, founder, and head trainer of Bay Star Sporthorses. With over a decade in the industry and 5+ years of coaching experience, she is dedicated to helping horses and riders reach their full potential through a kind, thoughtful approach. While specializing in the hunter/jumper discipline, Zella’s background spans everything from dressage to ranch riding, giving her a versatile perspective that treats every horse and rider as an individual athlete.

Zella’s philosophy centers on a correct foundation and proper horsemanship. Drawing from her own experience in sports psychology and the Equine Gestalt Method, she focuses heavily on the mental side of riding to foster confidence and overcome training hurdles. She prides herself on her ability to listen and calmly guide horses often considered "misunderstood" or high-strung, always aiming to leave every horse and rider better than she found them.

A 2026 Honors graduate from the University of Kentucky in Equine Science and Management, Zella is currently pursuing a Master’s in Agricultural Economics as a Fellow in Extension. She brings over two years of therapeutic riding experience and is currently working toward her USHJA Instructor Certification. Bay Star Sporthorses LLC is fully insured and available for on-site, travel, and virtual training. Visit our services page to learn more or contact us to schedule your first session!