(203) 710-9604
about us
Who we are
At JC Eventing, we’re dedicated to providing exceptional, species-appropriate care that puts the well-being of our horses first. But beyond that, we’re passionate about sharing the joy of horses with others - whether they’re taking their first lesson or chasing big dreams. Our barn is a welcoming, accepting space where kindness, inclusivity, and community come first. No matter your background or experience, if you love horses, you have a place here.
OUR TEAM
Jamie Carleton
Owner, Trainer, Head Instructor
Jamie has been around horses since the age of 3 and has been competing in the disciplines of eventing and dressage since the age of 10. She excels in introducing both horses and riders to the sport in a fun and safe way and also specializes in the restarting and training of OTTBs. Jamie has been running JC Eventing out of the Barberry Road property since 2017 and purchased the facility in April of 2021.
Jamie has experience bringing multiple horses up through the Training/Preliminary levels of eventing and absolutely loves the process of starting young horses and bringing them up the levels. Continuing her own riding education is incredibly important to her; she currently trains with Vicki Hammers O'Neil in dressage and takes jumping lessons regularly with 5* event rider Dom Schramm on his frequent visits to CT. She also clinics regularly with prominent eventers such as Boyd Martin, Phillip Dutton, Elisa Wallace, Sinead Halpin, and Gina Miles. She is currently eventing her OTTB, Truman, and aiming for the 2025 RRP TB Makeover with her latest project, Warren.
Jamie teaches our intermediate and advanced lessons. She also manages the day to day operations of the facility and, in addition to her equine experience, graduated from Southern New Hampshire University with a degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Small Business Management and a minor in Marketing so she is familiar with both the business and equine aspects of the industry.
Last but not least, Jamie has multiple certifications in different equine bodywork modalities and saddle fitting, and provides these services to CT, MA, RI, and parts of NY through her other business, JC Equine Wellness
shannon mangan
Assistant Instructor
Shannon’s passion for riding began at the age of six when she took her first lesson, sparking a lifelong love for horses. This passion led her to pursue Equine Management and Equine Studies at Becker College, where she also competed on the school’s Varsity IHSA Show Team.
With a strong background in the hunter and equitation rings, Shannon now competes her horse, Stormy, at the Beginner Novice level of eventing. While she enjoys working with riders of all ages, she has a special talent for introducing both children and adults to the sport. Her years of experience as a daycare teacher have given her a deep understanding of how young minds learn, allowing her to create a fun, engaging, and safe environment for kids to develop confidence in the saddle. She also specializes in teaching beginner adults and those returning to riding after a long hiatus, helping them regain confidence and rediscover their passion for horses in a supportive, encouraging setting. With patience, enthusiasm, and a nurturing approach, Shannon strives to make every lesson a positive experience, helping riders of all ages build both their skills and their love for horses.
donna Latella
Therapeutic Riding Director
Donna Latella is a professor of Occupational Therapy at Quinnipiac University and the director of the therapeutic riding programs at JC Eventing. Her passion for Animal-Assisted Therapy began nearly 25 years ago with her work alongside therapy dogs, sparking a lifelong commitment to helping individuals through the power of human-animal interactions.
Since 2005, Donna has been certified in Hippotherapy and Therapeutic Riding Instruction with a specialized focus on supporting riders facing physical, educational, and psychosocial challenges. She combines her extensive background in occupational therapy with her deep understanding of equine-assisted activities to create transformative riding experiences.
At JC Eventing, Donna leads programs designed to foster confidence, independence, and overall well-being for both children and adults. Whether working with individuals with special needs or those looking to build strength and self-assurance, her compassionate and individualized approach ensures that every rider can experience the joy and therapeutic benefits of horses.