Coach Bios

Andrew Shellum

Andrew is the Riding School Manager and brings a wealth of international experience to his role. He has developed his expertise in horsemanship from working in several regions, including Hong Kong, Singapore, the UK, and Ireland. With a primary focus on Dressage, he is passionate about fostering connections between riders and horses at all levels.

Andrew holds a BHS Stage 4 Senior Coach Qualification and is actively pursuing a BHS Stage 5 Performance Coach qualification to further enhance his skills. Committed to continuous professional development, Andrew’s dedication to enhancing his skills ensures that he can give the best quality service to all the riders and horses in his care.

Anouar Najim

Anouar is a dedicated coach and trainer with over 10 years of experience in the equestrian field. His comprehensive instruction in riding and show jumping preparation, coupled with his expertise in competition management and training of young horses, reflects his commitment to excellence. Anouar is actively working towards a BHS Stage 3 Coaching qualification and regularly competes in Showjumping competitions of up to 120cm.

 

Fluent in Arabic, French, and English, Anouar can proficiently communicate with diverse groups, ensuring effective training for riders of all levels. He has a relaxed and fun approach to lessons, and believes that the best learning environment for riders is when they feel safe, secure and relaxed with the horse.

Nina Kroonenberg​

Nina began her equestrian journey at the age of 10, taking her first steps into the world of horses at her local riding school in the Netherlands. Since then, she has devoted numerous years to refining her skills and expanding her expertise in the equestrian world. From coaching lessons to training young horses, Nina has developed a wealth of experience.

 

In 2022, Nina achieved her Dutch coaching qualifications (ORUN 2) and is currently working towards her BHS Stage 3 Coaching qualification. Nina’s coaching philosophy focuses on patience, continuous learning, and, above all, the joy in the journey.

ADEC Audrey Vavasseur
Audrey Vavasseur​

With over 25 years of horse-riding experience, Audrey’s equestrian journey began in France, where she spent 8 years coaching before joining the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club (ADEC) in 2018. Audrey holds a BPJEPS Equitation Qualification from France and is currently working towards the BHS Stage 4 Senior Coach qualification.

 

Audrey takes part regularly in Dressage competitions in the UAE, showcasing her skill and training. Her commitment and dedication to both coaching and competing comes from a deep love for horses and the equestrian sport.

ADEC Jessie Ihrcke
Jessie Ihrcke

Jessie joined ADEC to direct and develop our Therapeutic Riding programme. With a degree in psychology and counselling from the University of Surrey, UK, and as an accredited facilitator with EAGALA (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association, USA), she is highly qualified in Equine Assisted Therapy.  


Jessie formerly worked as an Instructor at the Riding for the Disabled (RDA), Singapore and was instrumental in developing and delivering the EQUAL-ARK Programme (Equine-Assisted Therapy for At-Risk Kids) at the National Equestrian Centre, Singapore.

Scroll to Top