Kalea’s love for horses began when she was just five years old, growing up riding and teaching herself everything horses. During high school, she started rescuing horses, gently bringing them along under saddle and finding them new homes—her first way of earning money doing what she loves. Thanks to her  grandparents, who ran a cattle farm nearby, she was able to keep her horses close until she left for college. Now living on-site at Windfall Equestrian Center, Kalea shares her home with her three beloved horses and four lively cats, fully immersed in the barn life she’s passionate about.

Since joining Windfall in January 2024, Kalea has embraced a wide range of responsibilities—from feeding and minor medical care to arranging farrier visits, coordinating hay deliveries, hauling horses, and even repairing fences. Her versatility and hardworking nature have earned her the nickname “Superwoman” around the barn, especially for her impressive ability to throw hay bales with ease.

Before Windfall, Kalea gained valuable experience as a barn manager and lesson instructor at South Fork Stables, started colts at Sells Lake Ranch, and prepared yearlings for sales at Jorgenson Stables. She also spent a year working in insurance before deciding to return full-time to her passion. Kalea holds a degree in Marketing and Management with a minor in Nonprofit Administration from the University of North Dakota, skills that help her keep the barn running smoothly and clients well informed.

At home on the farm, Kalea cares for her three horses—Jinx, an 11-year-old black Quarter Horse mare; Classical Wind Fanci (“Karma”), a 9-year-old bay Quarter Horse mare; and Elegance N Tonic (“Kismet”), a spirited 6-year-old chestnut off-the-track Thoroughbred. Her four cats—Clio, Leo, Calvin, and Kasper—add their own special energy to the barn family. A special place in her heart is reserved for her first horse, Rio, a bay Thoroughbred gelding whom she got at age five and cared for until he passed at age 36, when she was 22. Their 17 years together symbolize the deep bonds and lifelong lessons horses bring.

Kalea believes horsemanship is a lifelong journey and approaches each day eager to learn from the horses and riders around her. Her mission is to foster a barn environment built on trust, respect, and shared passion—where horses, riders, and staff can thrive together as a true team.

EDUCATION

University of North Dakota Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing and Management

ACHIEVEMENTS AND QUALIFICATIONS

Experienced Stable Manager
Started dozens of horses under saddle
Restarting off-the-track Thoroughbreds
Horse show experience in multiple disciplines
Trained and shown 1D-4D barrel horses
Trained and facilitated the adoption of several horses for an equine rescue organization
Riding instruction experience for riders of all ages