Our Team
Michelle Neuzil
,
Owner
Michelle has been involved with horses for 30+ years, and has been raising appaloosas since 1995. She holds a degree in Equine Studies. In 2004, Michelle began showing and promoting her Appaloosas at a world-class level. In 2010, her stallion, “The Miracle Chip” was inducted into the Appaloosa Hall of Fame, and his son, “TC Tommy Boy” carries on his legacy. Michelle has won numerous awards across the globe in multiple disciplines, and through her expertise in breeding quality Appaloosas, she has demonstrated her commitment to excellence.
Jake Smith, Ranch Manager
Jake takes care of the horses and monitors their health, including the newborns. He takes satisfaction in seeing the animals thrive. Working with Buzz, he builds and maintains fencing, the arenas, and farm equipment. He enjoys working with his hands in the outdoors.
Amanda and Jake raise Australian Kelpie puppies, a herding breed, which help Amanda with the cattle used in cutting training. They raise three litters per year, and these puppies go on to compete in dog trials and work on cattle ranches. If you’re interested in adding a Kelpie puppy to your family, visit Mill Creek Kelpies on Facebook.
Gail and Buzz Rathbun
,
Assistant Managers
Gail and Buzz are a real blessing to our operation. Gail is an accomplished rider, originally from Moorehead, Minnesota and began riding when she turned 35 years old. She was the director of Florida District 3 of the National Barrel Horse Association for 2 years. Gail still competes in barrel racing and enjoys teaching others about the sport.
Buzz has been involved with construction for 35 years and now is our beloved ranch hand. He makes sure the animals are well cared for and is passionate about their nutrition. He also enjoys working in carpentry and builds and maintains fencing, as well as farm equipment.
Amanda Cochran, Cutting Trainer
Amanda has been riding all her life. A West Virginia native, she has worked for several successful cutting trainers in the industry and has gained the knowledge needed to succeed in the sport. She prides herself in having patience with the horses, to make sure they understand what is being asked of them. Amanda gives advanced riding lessons to help people understand the mechanics of the horse and how to get things done with a willing, happy horse. She offers lessons, colt starting, cutting training, and showing.
Teresa Butler Key, Trainer and Lesson Camp Coordinator
With over 30 years’ experience, Teresa Butler Key offers courses at TC Performance Horses. As a former 4H Leader, Teresa teaches beginner/intermediate Western and English lessons and is the coordinator for our summer camps. She has competed in team penning, sorting, gymkhana, Trail, and Ranch classes. She specializes in body awareness and rider empathy.
Gabby Smith, Intern
Gabby is a young apprentice who rides cutting horses. She assists Amanda with before and after cutting training care. She plans to attend college to become a veterinarian, but in the meantime is learning all aspects of riding and caring for horses.
Georgia Caudle ,
Trainer / Veterinarian Student
Georgia is one of the most talented horse trainers we have seen for a long time. She has great intuition with horses and seems to be able to read their thoughts. Georgia works through the stubborn issues with horses and gets them to listen. She aspires to be the farm’s vet with the goal of specializing in reproduction to further the Appaloosa bloodline and performance.
Sara Washington
,
Volunteer Program Manager
As the head of our volunteer program, Sara looks for folks who want to groom and exercise our senior and special needs horses.
Sara has 30+ years’ experience teaching people how to work with horses. Get in touch with Sara if you’re interested in learning more about our volunteer program.