Gaited Horse Trainer • Clinician • Educator
Gaye DeRusso is a nationally recognized gaited horse trainer, clinician, and educator. She is the creator of The Majestic Rider program—an honest, non-gimmick approach to producing smooth, confident, reliable gaited horses. Based in Royal Oaks, California, she works with riders and horses across the U.S. and Europe, through training, lessons in person and online, clinics, and consulting.
Gaye’s philosophy centers on the idea that correct gaits come from correct foundations. She focuses on horse welfare, emotional balance, and clear, effective communication, avoiding, artificial shoeing, and shortcuts. Her specialties include:
Through her Majestic Rider website, YouTube channel (@GayeDeRusso), and social media, Gaye shares extensive free educational content. Demonstrating practical groundwork, arena exercises, and real-world trail application. As a clinician, she is known for her clear explanations, practical drills, and rider-focused coaching that give participants tools they can use immediately at home.
For more information, visit www.majesticrider.com or follow @GayeDeRusso on YouTube or social media.
Gaited Horses: More than extra gears – they’re wired different
Gaited horses aren’t just “normal” horses with extra gears. In this clinic Gaye DeRusso explains how they are built and wired differently – and what that means for riding, training, and keeping them sound and happy.
The Gaited Spectrum: Why No Two Gaited Horses Are Alike
No two gaited horses more – or feel – the same. In this clinic, Gaye DeRusso breaks down the “gaited spectrum”, explaining why horses fall on different parts of the trotty-to-pacey scale and how to adjust your riding and training to bring out each horses best, most comfortable, gait.
Cantering Gaited Horses: The Biomechanics Behind “Different”
Not all gaited horses canter like “regular” horses. In this clinic, Gaye explains what’s really happening in their bodies and how to ride their unique canter so it feels clearer, easier, and more comfortable.