About Us
Catherine Ruh and Timothy Ruh have built Quiet Rein Farm around a shared vision: creating a place where exceptional horsemanship, quality care, and a strong sense of community come together. Living onsite, they are deeply invested in every aspect of the farm and take great pride in the environment they have created.
Since opening its doors in 2017, Quiet Rein Farm has grown into more than just a training facility—it is a welcoming, close-knit community united by a passion for horses. Catherine and Tim have worked tirelessly to cultivate a program that balances professionalism with a supportive, family-like atmosphere, where riders of all ages feel encouraged, challenged, and at home.
Their dedication to both the horses and the people who make up Quiet Rein Farm is at the heart of everything they do. Together, they remain committed to continuing to grow this special community while upholding the values that define it.
Catherine Ruh | Barn Manager/Owner & Head Trainer
Catherine Ruh began riding at the age of six and quickly discovered a lifelong passion for horses that would shape her career. From the beginning, she knew she wanted to become a professional in the equestrian industry, and she has since built a program centered on thoughtful horsemanship and strong fundamentals.
Catherine believes that a correct foundation on the flat and a consistent, educated connection between horse and rider are key to success in any ring. Her training approach emphasizes developing confident, effective riders while prioritizing the well-being and understanding of the horse.
She particularly enjoys producing young horses and takes pride in helping both horses and riders progress through each stage of their careers. Catherine spent four years as Head Trainer at Fox Crossing Equestrian, where she successfully coached numerous hunter, jumper, and equitation riders to qualify for and compete at CHJA and CHSA Finals.
Catherine began her professional journey as a working student for respected industry professionals, including David Wilbur of Folly Farm and Shachine Belle of Belle Equestrian, where she developed a strong foundation in training and program management.
She earned a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science with a minor in Equine Business Management from the University of Connecticut, where she also served as captain of the equestrian team. During her time at UConn, she helped establish an IEA team, coaching and managing the program through its inaugural successful season.
As a junior rider, Catherine competed extensively throughout New England and Florida in the High Children’s Jumpers and Large Junior Hunters. She qualified multiple times for prestigious finals, including the National Junior Hunter Finals, Marshall & Sterling Finals, NEHC Finals, NEHJ Derby Finals, and CHJA Finals.
At Quiet Rein Farm, Catherine is dedicated to creating a supportive, professional environment where riders of all levels can develop strong skills, confidence, and a lasting partnership with their horses.
Timothy Ruh | Property & Road Manager/Owner
Tim is the backbone of Quiet Rein Farm’s day-to-day operations, serving as the farm’s trusted “right hand” for all things property, logistics, and behind-the-scenes coordination. With a deep-rooted connection to Litchfield County, Tim returned to the area after graduating from Connecticut College in 2010 and built a strong background in property management, land clearing, and landscaping.
At Quiet Rein Farm, Tim is responsible for maintaining the property to the highest standard, ensuring that every aspect of the facility is safe, functional, and beautifully kept. His attention to detail and proactive approach allow the program to run efficiently and seamlessly.
Beyond the farm itself, Tim plays a critical role in the success of the show program. He manages all shipping and transportation logistics, coordinating the many moving parts involved in getting horses and riders to and from competitions safely and on schedule. His reliability and problem-solving skills make him an indispensable part of the team, particularly during the demands of show season.
In addition to his work at the farm, Tim serves the local community as an EMT with Washington Ambulance and is the Lead Coach for the U12 Division of the Mohawk Mountain Alpine Race Team—further reflecting his dedication, leadership, and commitment both on and off the farm.
Mattie Harris | Community Riding Director & Trainer, IEA Coach
Mattie Harris is an integral part of the Quiet Rein Farm team, bringing a dynamic combination of teaching expertise, horsemanship, and program management. Known for her ability to keep the barn running seamlessly while maintaining a positive, productive atmosphere, Mattie plays a key role in both the daily operations and long-term development of horses and riders.
Mattie excels at working with riders and horses of all ages and levels, with a particular strength in meeting each individual where they are and helping them set—and achieve—meaningful, attainable goals. Her teaching style is encouraging, detail-oriented, and rooted in building confidence while maintaining high standards.
A fellow University of Connecticut alumna, Mattie further strengthens Quiet Rein Farm’s connection to the UConn Department of Animal Science. She has been riding since the age of six and is an exceptionally well-rounded horsewoman, with experience spanning Hunters, Jumpers, Dressage, Western, Polo, and Eventing. This diverse background allows her to bring a thoughtful, adaptable perspective to her training.
During her time at UConn, Mattie served as Captain of the Drill Team and was heavily involved in developing and producing young horses, giving her a strong foundation in bringing along green and up-and-coming talent.
Mattie’s positive, upbeat attitude combined with her emphasis on correct flatwork and strong fundamentals consistently brings out the best in both horse and rider. She is deeply committed to fostering a supportive, hardworking environment where riders can grow, improve, and enjoy the process every step of the way.
Sydney Hagerman | Assistant Trainer/Rider
Sydney Hagerman brings a lifelong passion for horses and a well-rounded background in both hunters and jumpers to her role at Quiet Rein Farm. Her journey began at just four years old when her family moved next door to a small horse farm—what started with pony rides quickly grew into a dedicated riding career.
As a junior, Sydney competed successfully throughout the East Coast in both the hunter and jumper rings. She later spent time in Wellington, Florida, where she further developed her riding and horsemanship under the guidance of top professionals in the sport.
Now as a professional, Sydney has cultivated a strong passion for developing young and unconventional horses, with particular experience working with off-the-track Thoroughbreds. She is equally dedicated to her riders, taking pride in guiding students of all ages and experience levels—from their very first ride to confidently stepping into the show ring.
At Quiet Rein Farm, Sydney emphasizes a thoughtful, horse-first approach to training. She believes that strong horsemanship is the foundation for success and works to instill confidence, feel, and respect in both horse and rider.
Her philosophy is simple: horse first, sport second—a value she brings to every lesson, ride, and partnership she develops.