Frank Willard
USEF “R” Rated Judge Frank Willard was a popular (and always quotable) successful rider and respected trainer. Traveling annually across the country to judge WEF, HITS, Coachella, Indoors and numerous equitation regional and national finals. Frank had also trained hunters to numerous east coast championships, and has been awarded the NCHJA (North Carolina Hunter Jumper Association) “Horseman of the Year.”
Frank operated Deep River Farm in North Carolina with his wife and daughter. With a hunter, Frank feels that riding is an art and style is everything. After decades of training horses, Frank knew victory is fleeting. He said that in this business, you’re only as good as your last show. One week you may fall off and people laugh, and the next week you’re champion.
Frank was a memorable horseman and character, and a personable addition to any horse show judging panel. Sadly, Frank passed away in September of 2014.