Trainer & Staff profiles
Shawn Rooker
Coming from a long line of horseman and beginning his official career as a horse trainer at a very young age, Shawn has extensive experience with horses. His experience, paired with his connection and passion for horses make him one of todays top trainers. Having garnered countless National Championships, as well as training numerous amateur National Champions, Shawn can do it all. Specializing in English Pleasure, Park, Country Pleasure and Driving, Shawn is your go to guy for all things English. In addition to his talent in the training barn, Shawn is an all around horseman, enjoying his breeding stock, raising young horses and watching his children pursue their passion for horses.
Carmelle Rooker
Carmelle’s passion for horses started at an early age, as a youth rider she had great success in the equitation divisions. After her youth career, she attended the University of Michigan, and began Rooker Training Stables. Carmelle’s attention to detail and patience paired with her ability to understand each horse as an individual is unparralelled. Not only does Carmelle have numerous National Championships to her name, but her youth and amateur riders in both Pleasure and Equitation have also garnered numerous national championships. Recently she has enjoyed sharing her passion for horses with her and Shawn’s two kids, Makenna and Noah, who have both garnered numerous national titles!
Nora Shaffer
Nora has been passionate about Arabian horses since childhood. As a youth rider, she earned countless National Championships in the English, Park, Country, Driving, and Equitation divisions. Now a professional, Nora continues to achieve excellence with numerous National titles, including wins in the AEPA, Junior Horse, and Open divisions. Aside from her successes in the English divisions, she also maintains an impressive string of Hunter Pleasure horses. Known for her ability to prepare horses for youth and amateur riders, Nora has earned a reputation for her skill, dedication, and attention to detail. When she’s not at the barn, Nora enjoys spending time at her family’s cabin, hanging
Madison Austin
Madison brings a wealth of experience and versatility to our team, having competed in nearly every division throughout her youth and college career. From Hunt Seat, Western, and Saddle Seat to Reining, Ranch Riding, Jumping, and Equitation, her well-rounded background is a testament to her dedication to the equestrian sport. While her primary focus has been on hunt seat, Madison recently celebrated an exciting milestone with her first National Championship in the Country Pleasure division. Madison graduated from Adrian College where she served as captain of the equestrian team. In addition to being an assistant trainer, she also oversees our lesson program. She excels at coaching and mentoring
Neto Sanchez
For nearly 20 years, Neto has played a critical role in developing young horses at RTS. Many of the horses Neto has started have gone on to win National Championships across numerous divisions. In addition to his expertise and horsemanship under saddle, Neto is a skilled farrier who owns and operates N.S. Farrier Services. He provides top-notch blacksmith care to horses both at RTS and in the broader community. Outside of work, Neto cherishes time with his wife, Sara, and his son Tony.
Chente Sanchez
Chente has been an integral part of RTS for nearly 20 years. His dedication and passion for his work earned him the prestigious AHT Caretaker of the Year award, a testament to his positive attitude, work ethic, and unmatched attention to detail. Chente’s compassion for the horses shines through in everything he does, making him a valued member of our team and a cherished part of the Rooker Family. Chente and his wife Brenda have two beautiful children, Kimberley and Alan.