Laura’s life with horses began when she was six years old, perched on the back of Bay Lady. Something clicked in that moment — she knew she had found the place she wanted to be forever. That early spark grew into a lifelong devotion. Over the next 30 years, Laura taught countless students and competed in Welsh, western, and hunter shows, three-day events, and driving competitions. Horses have always been at the center of her world.

Heather Hill Farm itself has an equally rich history. Founded in the early 1970s by Pat Holmes in Woodside, California, the farm quickly became known for importing and breeding the kind, sturdy Welsh Cobs. In 1996, Pat invited Laura to become the farm’s trainer and her partner in the breeding and showing program — a collaboration built on shared passion and deep respect for the breed.

When Pat passed away in 2006, she entrusted the Heather Hill name to Laura. What began as a partnership became a legacy that Laura has carried forward with dedication and love. Under her care, Heather Hill has evolved into the exceptional riding and training center it is today.

Laura earned her B.S. in Biological Sciences from UC Davis in 1986, but it was at Heather Hill that her scientific curiosity and her intuition as a horsewoman came together. With Pat, she helped build the premier herd of Section D Welsh Cobs in the United States. Many of these horses were hand-raised and trained by Laura herself — each one known personally, each one shaped with patience, skill, and affection.