Leonie “Button” Baker - Coach and Clinician

Born in the UK, educated in Belgium, Button moved to Switzerland to train. She later moved to the USA competing successfully to the Grand Prix level and has continued to coach and train throughout the US. Button has a unique eye for pinpointing issues and providing thorough guidance to help accelerate performance. In addition to being Kristina’s coach, Button also frequently provides clinics to KHD riders of all levels.

Susan Bauer DVM - Veterinarian

Dr. Bauer is the primary veterinarian for KHD horses and clients and is an invaluable member of the team. She provides exceptional care for all of our star athletes. 

Dr. Bauer graduated from Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine in 1987.  She worked with sport and standard bred racehorses for 2 years in New York and then moved to Los Angeles in 1989. She started her work in Southern California with Thoroughbred horses at the major tracks for 4 years before moving to a Thoroughbred breeding facility in Northern California. In 1993, she began working with a sport horse practice in Los Angeles and started her own practice in 2000. Today her practice is thriving and she is a well-respected member of the Southern California equine community. She continues to provide only the best care to her four and two-legged clients alike. 

Ramon Rios - Groom/Stable Manager

Ramon Rios has been a member of the KHD Team since 2003. His years of experience are invaluable to the team and his kind touch and quiet demeanor enable him to work with even the most difficult horse. Never has Kristina met anyone who works as hard as Ramon does to keep the horses happy and healthy. Ramon himself owns and rides his owns horses and has two daughters that he enjoys spending time with on Sundays.

Ali Rios - Groom

Ali Rios found his love of horses after a chance meeting with his uncle Ramon Rios who introduced him to the world of stable management and horse care. Ali immediately fell in love with their intelligence, abilities, loving nature, and majestic presence. He has been a full-time groom for over two years now and his infectious charm and gentle good nature make him a favorite of the clients and horses alike.  Ali has been an avid animal lover since as long as he can remember, but it wasn't until he rescued his dog Sadie from the shelter in 2001 that he truly became and animal enthusiast and activist. You can often times catch Ali keeping the KHD team running like a well-oiled machine at the shows, as well as cheering both the riders and horses from the sidelines.

When he's not at the barn, Ali utilizes his business management skills to own and successfully manage a comic book store. He is also a freelance writer, photographer, and reluctant graphic artist.