Join us for the next club meeting!
First Tuesday of month at 7 pm in Jefferson.
Our Story
Dusty Boots Riding Club was founded in 1941 as a social organization devoted to encouraging a love for horseback riding, training, and the responsible care of horses. Just three years later, in 1944, the club held its first horse show at the Ashtabula County Fairgrounds—an event that would set the stage for decades of community-driven equestrian activity.
With dedication, hard work, and support from local merchants, the club purchased 5.5 acres of land on Garrison Road near Ashtabula. There, a riding arena was built, and the first on-site show was held on October 26, 1945. Proceeds from that event helped fund a unique clubhouse made from the top story of a relocated cheese factory, giving Dusty Boots a true home.
Incorporated in 1948 as a nonprofit organization, Dusty Boots has always aimed to promote sociability, horsemanship, and all facets of horse ownership—from breeding and training to competition and education. For decades, annual shows funded ongoing improvements to the grounds and facilities, while the riding ring and amenities continued to evolve.
Our Growth: NEOHA
In 1980, to boost local interest and participation in horse showing, Dusty Boots helped establish the Northeastern Ohio Horseman’s Association (NEOHA)—a regional open show circuit modeled after breed show organizations. NEOHA introduced a structured point system, approved classes, and an annual awards banquet that celebrates rider achievements. It quickly became a staple of the Northeast Ohio and Western Pennsylvania equestrian scene.
Over time, as the shows expanded and attracted larger crowds, Dusty Boots outgrew the original Garrison Road location. Most shows are now held at the Ashtabula County Fairgrounds, which offers more space and modern amenities. The Garrison Road property was sold in the mid-1990s, but Dusty Boots Riding Club remains vibrant and active today.
What We Do Today
Today, Dusty Boots and NEOHA continue to promote fun, inclusive, and family-friendly equestrian events for riders of all ages and experience levels. Our organization hosts a series of open horse shows, educational clinics, and special events throughout the show season. Some of our most popular offerings include:
- NEOHA Sanctioned Show Series – Offering a variety of disciplines including Western, English, Ranch, Walk-Trot, and more.
- Year-End High Point Awards – Recognizing excellence in performance across multiple shows.
- Annual Awards Banquet – A celebration of our riders, volunteers, and equine partners.
- Clinics and Shows – Educational and entertaining events for both new and experienced riders.
- Youth Engagement- Check out the Boot Dusters Youth Group!
- Community and Club Meetings – Monthly gatherings held in Jefferson, Ohio (first Wednesday of each month), open to all horse lovers!
We are committed to keeping local equestrian traditions alive, while continuing to grow and evolve with the needs of today’s riders. Whether you’re competing for points, riding for fun, or just love being around horses, you have a place at Dusty Boots and NEOHA.
Our Officers
Holly Carr
PresidentHi. My name is Holly Carr. I've been a member of the Dusty Boots Riding Club since I was a kid, so the roots run deep! My 2 daughters, mom and I all show the association now. My husband is our biggest supporter, we call him the "Horse Daddy"! I still have my OG show horse Della who turned 30 this year! She'll always hold a special place in our hearts along with Trixie, Levi and our newest girl Kona.
Dana Johnson
Vice President, DirectorHi, I’m Dana! I have served on the Board of Directors and as the Dusty Boots Club Secretary & Points Secretary for the last 3 years. Throughout show season you can find me in ranch classes schooling my young OTTB and helping with the “behind the scenes” of the show. I’ll also be ringside while my daughters are showing their APHA in youth ranch classes. Our family loves how welcoming and encouraging all the members were to us when joining the club. I look forward to the friendships, fun and learning that comes with each show season!
Dawn Allison
2nd Vice President, Director, TrusteeHi I’m Dawn Allison! I started showing NEOHA in the late 80’s with my family. I showed walk trot while my brother showed Lead Line. We showed NEOHA all through my youth years. After that I moved to work for Trein Training Center for 6 years. I moved back home to start my own business in 2008. My mom, my clients & I started back showing at NEOHA. Mom and I became directors, officers & became very involved. My mom started the “Ride For The Cure” class in 2012 and it’s still going strong today. Thank you to all that make that happen!! Fast forward to 2019 I introduced my daughter Savannah to showing lead line at age 1 1/2! She now competes in walk trot & ranch classes. We have gained so many friendships through this club & we are ready to make more wonderful memories!!!
Harley Buckley
Secretary, DirectorHi, I’m Harley! I got my start showing in NEOHA as a first-generation horse girl at just 9 years old, alongside my super green 4-year-old pony, Cheyenne. My family and I had no idea what we were doing, but we were welcomed with open arms by some truly wonderful people who helped us learn the ropes. Over the years, I had the chance to ride some amazing horses and was honored to be crowned DBRC Queen in 2015. After a break from showing to navigate adult life, I found my way back—this time reunited with my bestie girl, Cheyenne—and returned to the NEOHA ring a few years ago. My goal now is to be a positive, welcoming presence around the show ring, just like those who supported me when I was starting out.
Our Directors & Trustees
Kim Brewster
Director31 years ago my life changed and I had no idea. I brought a fat $600 quarter horse to Tom Brewster for training Justa jo jo. And in 60 days headed off to my first Qh show in Wilmington, Ohio. I had nothing that I needed. Borrowed everything from Carrie Morrison. It was a weekend that shaped the rest of my life, putting in 16 points in the western classes. Over the next 30 years I have been fortunate enough to have some very great horses. Ran for a few titles and was blessed enough to win them. Able to place Top 10 at Quarter Horse Congress and winning a world title with my Appaloosa. Over the years some of my favorites, Eagles Mark, Ready in a minute, Finders Keepers and of course Rockin the Cash Bar. 10 years ago I gave up my amateur card and became a professional. Started training and giving lessons. I have been showing at NEOHA my entire career. And have served several terms as a director. Looking forward to another great show season.
Sarah Fabian
Director, TrusteeHello, my name is Sarah Fabian. I started out at NEOHA as a child following my sister, Carrie Morrisons' footsteps, into the show ring in the 90s. I have fond memories of the shows and banquets we would attend until moving out of state. Since returning from school and other life adventures with my family, I started my own children at Dusty Boots shows in leadline! In the last 10 years, they have enjoyed moving up the ropes within the association and continue in the youth divisions. To support our love of NEOHA, I have joined the directors committee in 2023 and look forward to our Neoha shows and banquets each and every year!
Darlene Morrison
DirectorI started riding horses at age 1 and started showing at age 8 and continue to this day. I started my daughter at NEOHA at age 4. At one time , I and all 3 of my children showed at NEOHA. Now, pretty much all my family shows at NEOHA, including my granddaughters!!! I sponsor the Lena Memorial showmanship class at NEOHA. I am honored to be a NEOHA director and truly love and believe in this organization!
Josie Nicholas
DirectorMy name is Josie, and I’m proud to be an active member of the Northeast Ohio Horse Association. I compete in Ranch discipline with my amazing horse, Kat’s Smokin Xavier, who has been my partner through countless rides and shows. Together, we share a love for the versatility and authenticity that Ranch classes bring to the show ring. I first became involved with NEOHA thanks to Harley Buckley, whose encouragement and support introduced me to this incredible organization. Ironically, our horses are full siblings! Last year, I had the honor of running for NEOHA Queen—a rewarding experience that deepened my connection to the community and gave me the opportunity to represent the values of leadership, horsemanship, and sportsmanship. NEOHA has been an important part of my equestrian journey, and I’m excited to continue growing, learning, and contributing to everything this association stands for.
Caitlyn Visnosky
DirectorHi my name is Caitlyn Visnosky and I am a board member for Dusty boots riding club. I have been involved in horses since a young age. I have worked in the veterinary medical field for many years. I worked in equine medicine for many years before transitioning to small animal. I currently work for an online veterinary pharmacy. Me and my family enjoy spending our weekend together with the horses, going to horse shows. We love the family atmosphere of Dusty Boots and love everyone’s willingness to jump in and help each other out.
