Annie Penfield
Annie has been working in barns and fitting saddles for the past fifteen years and has advanced training with Bates, Takt, and Equipe saddles. A lifelong rider, she has competed through the preliminary and CIC** level in eventing. Now she enjoys hacking in the woods. As the owner of Strafford Saddlery for over twenty years, Annie made the decision to close the retail store to focus only on saddle sales. A saddle can change your riding life for both you and your horse. Strafford Saddlery prides ourselves on carrying multiple brands so that we can find the best match for you and your horse—and your budget. Additionally, Annie is an essayist, published in several literary journals. She enjoys ski mountaineering in Wyoming and spends time living aboard sailboat with her husband in Alaska. The shift in the business models allows for all these adventures—and still home frequently to meet with her saddle clients.
Libby Riefler
Libby is a lifelong equestrian with a deep understanding of both rider and equine biomechanics. Years ago, she collaborated with Annie Penfield to transition her Thoroughbred into an Equipe Rose dressage saddle and immediately experienced the transformative benefits of Equipe’s design and performance.
Libby is trained in the Wilson Meagher Method of equine sport massage, giving her a strong foundation in equine movement and the critical role each muscle plays in performance and comfort. She further advanced her expertise by completing professional saddle fitting training with Gruppo Selleria Equipe in Valdagno, Italy. There, she gained hands-on experience with the craftsmanship behind Equipe saddles and developed an in-depth knowledge of their extensive range of options tailored to meet the unique needs of horse-and-rider pairs.
As your dedicated Equipe saddle fitting specialist, Libby proudly continues Strafford Saddlery’s tradition of precision saddle fitting—ensuring optimal balance, connection, and comfort for both horse and rider. She is also grateful to have Annie Penfield as a mentor and collaborator in their shared mission to deliver exceptional saddle fit and ongoing support.
Betsy Coburn
Betsy grew up on a farm and has been riding her whole life. Her first horse was Ginger, a failed lesson pony! Today, she has 2 horses, 2 dogs, 3 cats, 2 chinchillas and 1 rabbit making up her 4-legged crew. Cross Country is Betsy's favorite equestrian activity, so its no surprise that she loves to match all her tack and accessories - bring on the matching saddle pads, galloping boots and helmet covers!
Betsy operates The Tack Attic in White River Junction! Visit her store www.thetackattic.com