Welcome to Braveheart Farm
Our Mission
At Braveheart Farm, Our mission is to deliver world-class training rooted in precision, discipline, and proven methodology. We strive to build confident, capable partnerships that excel in the international arena, while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, horsemanship, and performance.
John Brown— Founder & Head Trainer
Originally from Ayrshire, Scotland, John is a second-generation horseman with a distinguished international career in show jumping. Introduced to the sport by his father, Alexander—a dairy farmer and accomplished amateur show jumper—John began riding at age eight on his 13.2-hand pony, Montana. He quickly demonstrated natural talent, winning the Junior 13.2 Championship of Great Britain in 1970.
John’s early foundation was shaped by rigorous training with his father and later refined under the guidance of world-renowned coaches, including Swedish Olympic trainer Lars Sederholm and German Olympic gold medalist Fritz Legges. His competitive record includes three consecutive victories in the Young Riders Championship at Hickstead, as well as a win in the prestigious Hickstead Speed Derby.
As his career progressed, John represented both the British Young Riders and Senior Teams, competing in Grand Prix events across Europe, Africa, and South America. His international success—spanning countries such as Germany, France, Finland, Venezuela, Austria, Morocco, South Africa, Libya, and Senegal—earned him both long-list and short-list honors for the British Olympic Team.
In addition to his competitive accomplishments, John played a pivotal role in developing Muirmill Equestrian Centre in Symington, Scotland. Together with his family, he transformed the property into one of the country’s premier BSJA-approved show and training venues. There, he coached young riders within the British Showjumping Association program while overseeing operations alongside his parents, Alexander and Lilias.
In 2001, John relocated to the United States, where he established Braveheart Farm in Orlando, Florida. His focus shifted to the development of young sport horses, many of which went on to successful careers with elite riders, including Anne Kursinski, John Whitaker, David Bowen, and Robert Smith. Notable horses include Barry Bug, Arctic Fox, Silver Dust, and the breeding stallion Bliss MF.
In 2021, John moved Braveheart Farm to Mill Spring, North Carolina—just minutes from the Tryon International Equestrian Center. He continues to compete at the Grand Prix level and is actively involved in training both horses and riders, offering a wealth of international experience and a deep commitment to horsemanship and performance.
Training Philosophy
At Braveheart Farm, horses are developed with the long-term goal of producing confident, well-rounded athletes. Foundational flatwork is essential to every program, emphasizing balance, forward movement, responsiveness, and overall fitness. When it comes to jumping, particular attention is given to young horses, who require consistent support and thoughtful guidance to build their own confidence and understanding of the job.
Every horse is treated as an individual, and training is tailored accordingly. A variety of gymnastic exercises are used to enhance strength, encourage correct form, and address any physical or mental barriers to peak performance. Just as important as physical conditioning is mental well-being—trail riding, hill work, rest days, and a calm, positive environment are all integrated to keep the horse both happy and engaged.
For riders, the focus is on building strong fundamentals that support a successful and lasting partnership with the horse. Emphasis is placed on balance, rhythm, control, confidence, and ring craft—skills essential for success at any level of competition. The ultimate goal is to create unity between horse and rider, grounded in trust, clear communication, and of course, a brave heart.