board of directors

Chair Daniel Geitner is the owner and head trainer of DFG Stables, a premier full-service hunter jumper training and boarding facility based in Aiken, South Carolina. Raised in a barn and shaped by a strong foundation in classical horsemanship, Daniel has built one of the most respected hunter/jumper programs in the Southeast, home to nearly 70 horses in training. Daniel’s career spans top levels of the sport, from pony and equitation divisions to International Hunter Derbies and Grand Prix competition. A graduate of St. Andrews University, he developed his skills under influential mentors and as a working student for respected professionals, gaining experience that shaped both his riding and business acumen. As a member of the equestrian trainers association and known for his forward-thinking vision, Daniel plays a key role in long-term planning, facility development, and program growth. As Chair of the Board of Directors, he brings strategic leadership, industry expertise, and a lifelong commitment to horsemanship, education, and ethical sport.

Chris Wynne, the Vice-Chair and Treasurer on the board of directors for the Equestrian Trainers Association, is a highly respected hunter rider, trainer, and USEF ‘R’ judge based in Virginia Beach, Virginia. As the owner of Breckenridge Manor Farm, he specializes in the buying, importing, developing, and training of young hunter horses for top-level competition. With a career spanning decades, Chris is widely recognized for his methodical, horse-first approach to hunter jumper training. Influenced early on by legendary horseman Olin Armstrong, he is known for producing confident, correct, and long-lasting show horses through thoughtful development rather than shortcuts. In addition to his training and judging career, Chris has judged many of the country’s most prestigious horse shows and brings a strong understanding of financial oversight and organizational stewardship. As Vice-Chair and Treasurer, he provides careful fiscal guidance, accountability, and a steady hand grounded in experience and integrity.

Secretary Carleton “CB” Brooks is one of the most respected horsemen in the United States, with a career spanning more than three decades as a trainer, rider, coach, clinician, and USEF ‘R’ judge. He is the co-founder of Balmoral, an elite hunter jumper training program based in Southern California. CB has trained and produced numerous National Champions and Grand Champions across Professional, Junior, Pony, and Amateur divisions at the sport’s most prestigious venues. His contributions to the industry were recognized with the USHJA Lifetime Achievement Award, reflecting his lasting impact on the sport. In addition to operating Uphill Farm Inc. for more than 20 years in Northern California, Carleton continues to teach, judge, and mentor riders nationwide. As Secretary of the Board of Directors for the Equestrian Trainers Association, he brings deep institutional knowledge, historical perspective, and a strong commitment to excellence, fairness, and education within the equestrian community.