A Virginia Beach native, Sam grew up riding and competing at national finals before earning her Bachelor’s in Equine Studies from Centenary University, graduating cum laude and earning multiple awards for excellence, including the USHJA Amateur Affiliate Sportsmanship Award. Throughout her professional career, she has produced riders and horses to numerous state and national championships, managed a successful sales program, and earned top placings at elite competitions such as Devon, Pennsylvania National, WIHS, and The National Horse Show. Beyond teaching, Sam is passionate about importing and developing talented young horses, carefully selecting and training future stars for the hunter and equitation rings.

 

Junior rider Eleni Zimmel is a nationally ranked competitor with standout finishes at WCHR Finals and success qualifying ponies for Pony Finals. Known for her exceptional feel and talent in producing green ponies for elite competition, Eleni plays an important role in the development of the program’s young prospects.

 

Together, Sam, Eleni, and the entire Zimmel family bring a shared passion, hands-on care, and commitment to excellence that define Tartan Equestrian’s boutique, horse-first program—built on precision, polish, and performance.