Our Story: Where Hooves Meet Hearts
Our journey began with a profound love for horses and a deep commitment to the well-being of our community. With a passion for equestrian excellence, we have evolved into an award-winning therapeutic equine center dedicated to empowering individuals with special needs.
Through equine-assisted activities, we forge connections that reach far beyond the saddle, creating a world where hooves meet hearts. Join us in discovering our unique tale and the transformative power of horses.
Meet our Leadership Team
Christine Johnston
Owner/Founder - Iron Horse and Iron Horse Therapy
Christine grew up around horses and fostered a love for the animals. She is a talented trainer with decades of experience, award winning competitor, USEF judge, and Path certified instructor.
While showing on the West Coast, Christine started volunteering her time and her retired show horse to a therapeutic riding program. – “I was amazed at how the horses touched these special riders, it was magical and I knew I’d always be involved in some way.” She attended Cal Poly University, Pomona. There she accepted a position as a Trainer for the Arabian Horse Center at the University before relocating to Georgia. Her riding career includes her winning at Nationals Top 10 level and Regionals Top 5 level competitions.
“My mission is to help these special individuals through Equine Assisted Activities, changing lives one ride at a time.”
Shannon Troutman
Riding Instructor
Shannon’s passion for horses began at the age of 12. Shannon has always felt called to work with children with special needs and earned a degree in early childhood education from Gainesville State College.
Shannon began teaching therapeutic riding lessons in 2001 and is certified through the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (Path Intl.) Shannon has trained the Iron Horse Therapy Special Olympics team since 2015. Many of her students have been honored by the Governor of Georgia as top equestrian athletes in the State of Georgia.
Shannon says it best what sums up why she brings so much to our therapy program and kids … “with both of my passions combined I am a very blessed person! I love what I get to experience on a daily basis.”
