Pleasant Valley Horse Club Crew

We have several trainers to choose from at PVHC so our students can succeed in their unique styles of instruction, communication and different ways to effectively get our message across. We have learned about body language and how to give positive feedback to encourage our students to be their very best. Part of our riding instructors’ roles and responsibilities is to make sure our riders to feel comfortable, safe and their parents are happy to leave their children and horses in our care. Our instructors take pride in teaching their students. They build a specific curriculum for each individual child that includes quarterly progess reports.

We strive to prevent injuries and accidents by safeguarding both horses and riders. We regularly assess our facility, our horses and our students. We have extensive liability insurance and a release forms are required to avoid extreme costs in any emergency.

Michelle LeClair, Owner

Michelle LeClair brings over 35 years of riding experience and 15 years as a primary school educator in local schools to Pleasant Valley Horse Club. She has competed successfully in both English and Western disciplines, earning multiple championships throughout her career.

In the 1990s, Michelle had the privilege of studying under renowned horseman Tom Dorrance, where she deepened her understanding of Natural Horsemanship and the rehabilitation of rescued horses. That experience profoundly shaped her approach to both horses and students.

By blending her background in education with her foundation in classical and natural horsemanship, Michelle developed the unique program that defines PVHC today. Her philosophy centers on creating well-balanced riders through consistent time in the saddle, strong foundational skills, and a supportive, family-oriented environment.

Under her leadership, Pleasant Valley Horse Club has developed not only many champions in the arena, but confident, capable young people grounded in responsibility, partnership, and respect.

Alexandria LeClair, Barn Manager | Camp Director

Alex has been riding and working with horses for over 25 years. She grew up in the Hunter/Jumper discipline and brings a strong foundation of classical horsemanship to every lesson she teaches.

Alex holds a degree from Cabrillo College with a specialization in Early Childhood Education and has also studied at UC Davis. She is a certified Equine Nutritionist, blending equine health knowledge with thoughtful, individualized care.

As Barn Manager and Camp Director, Alex oversees daily horse care, staff leadership, and the development of PVHC’s youth programs and seasonal camps. Her approach to teaching is kind, structured, and confidence-building—ensuring students feel safe, supported, and empowered to reach their riding goals.

Alex has been part of the Pleasant Valley Horse Club family for over 15 years and serves as Head Coach of the PVHC English Team. Her passion for horses, education, and community is at the heart of everything she does.

Lucas LeClair, Equine Care Specialist | Lead Camp Counselor

Lucas has been riding since he was four years old and was raised in the horse world. By the age of 17, he had already earned the AA California State Championships in Gymkhana (CGA) in 2004 and 2005. He also won the All-Around Boys Western Series in Carmel and has earned numerous ribbons in Western Pleasure, Trail, Junior Cattle Sorting, Jumpers, and Endurance riding.

With a lifelong foundation in horsemanship, Lucas has a natural gift for training and has worked with horses from the ground up. His experience spans multiple disciplines, bringing both versatility and depth to his role at Pleasant Valley Horse Club.

As PVHC’s Equine Care Specialist and Lead Camp Counselor, Lucas plays a key role in daily horse care, camp safety, and instruction—especially in barrel racing and gymkhana events. He is a certified Lifeguard and a graduate of Cabrillo College in Fire Science, adding an extra layer of safety leadership to our programs.

Lucas is known for bringing energy, humor, and heart to everything he does. Campers are drawn to his fun, encouraging style, and he has a special way of helping students understand the partnership, responsibility, and respect that come with working alongside horses.