Kawai Nahoopii Head Trainer

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Kawai’s Equestrian Background and Training Philosophy

Equestrian Career Overview

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Kawai began her equestrian career with a focus on the hunter/jumper disciplines, setting a strong technical foundation early on. In 2012, she transitioned to the discipline of 3-Day Eventing, embracing the challenges and diversity it offers. Over the years, she has competed from Beginner Novice through Training Level—progressive competition levels in eventing that each present increasing degrees of difficulty and technicality—with her previous Off-the-Track Thoroughbred (OTTB).

Currently, Kawai is preparing her horse Jai, a 17-hand-high OTTB gelding, for Training Level competition in the 2026 Show Season.

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Dressage Accomplishments

In addition to her eventing pursuits, Kawai has achieved three qualifying scores at recognized competitions toward her United States Dressage Federation (USDF) Bronze Medal in dressage. This award recognizes riders for their proficiency at the lower levels of dressage, showcasing Kawai’s dedication and skill across multiple equestrian disciplines.

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Training Approach and Clientele

Kawai offers comprehensive training services for riders of all experience levels, specializing in foundational riding skills, competition preparation, and fostering effective horse and rider partnerships. Her program is based at R&R Stables and Equestrian Event Center in Enumclaw, WA, where she works with a diverse clientele, supporting each individual in achieving their equestrian goals.

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Inclusive Instruction Methods

Kawai is skilled in instructing riders with physical disabilities, neurodivergence, and those on the autism spectrum. She adapts her lessons to meet each rider’s unique needs, such as incorporating visual aids or tailored communication techniques for neurodivergent students, ensuring that every child can learn and enjoy their riding experience.

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Teaching Philosophy

She excels at deconstructing complex riding movements into clear sequences and terminology, which facilitates mutual understanding between horse and rider. This approach enables riders to communicate with greater clarity, effectiveness, and empathy. Kawai is dedicated to ensuring that horse and rider function cohesively as a team. She is deeply committed to both the art and science of equine training, maintaining that fostering a well-mannered horse is the most considerate action an owner can take.

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Groundwork and Partnership Development

Kawai consistently initiates her training by working with horses on the ground. This allows her to accurately assess each horse’s responses and interpret their body language in various scenarios. Groundwork forms a foundational element of her program, as it strengthens the partnership between horse and rider and directly translates to improved performance under saddle. Through this process, Kawai ensures enhanced alignment and communication between horse and handler.

Hershey 

Hershey’s Journey: From Quirks to Confidence

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Meeting Hershey and Early Impressions

I first met Hershey in August 2023 after relocating to a new barn. At the time, I assumed he was a younger horse, but soon discovered he was actually 23 years old. Realizing this, I understood that any quirks or habits he had were not things to be "fixed," but rather managed and supported, as they were part of who he was. Quirks in horses are natural and contribute to their distinctive personalities, making each one unique.

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Observing and Understanding Hershey

For a couple of months, I observed Hershey as he was handled and worked with by others. Through this period, it became clear to me that, with time and patience, he could be an excellent horse for lessons. However, Hershey had experienced trauma in his past that left him with mental scars. There were certain things that took time for him to work through, such as not being able to be hard tied, cross tied, or girthed up too quickly.

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Building Trust and Overcoming Challenges

When Hershey officially became my horse, I dedicated time to helping him become comfortable with various routines and equipment. I worked on gaining his trust so he could accept a saddle without needing to be lunged first or reacting negatively when feeling the girth. After about two months of consistent work, I felt confident that he was ready to begin lessons, both for young adults and adults.

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Providing the Right Environment

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It was evident that Hershey was uncomfortable in the barn where I first met him, as he needed more space and freedom than a small stall could provide. Once he was able to live in a stall with a run, he became more secure and trusting, knowing his well-being was a priority. This helped him adjust and allowed him to focus on lesson work in a more positive manner.

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Progress and Current Life at R&R Stables

Since moving to R&R Stables and Equestrian Center

I have been able to ensure Hershey’s comfort, both physically and mentally. Everyone involved in his lessons is aware of his quirks—such as not tying him and the importance of girthing him up slowly. Hershey has learned to ground tie, making grooming before and after lessons easy and stress-free for students.

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Thriving with Care and Attention

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With a well-balanced diet, appropriate vitamins, the right grain, medication for his arthritis, and a supportive barn environment, Hershey is as happy as I have ever seen him. He enjoys all his riding lessons, whether it is flat work for dressage, hacking out in the field, going on trail rides, or even jumping small fences. Now 25 years old, Hershey is still moving well and serves as an angelic first horse for many lesson students, thriving in his role and enjoying life to the fullest.

Harley

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Harley's Transformation: From "Dangerous" to Devoted Teacher

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I first met Harley in September of 2022, when my fiancé purchased him from a horse flipper. At the time, Harley was a 26-year-old horse with a reputation. We were told he was “dangerous” and unrideable. According to his previous owner, no one had ridden him for years due to supposed signs that he couldn’t be ridden. The owner seemed convinced of Harley’s limitations, but when I looked into his eyes, I sensed a different story.

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Building Trust and Discovering His

True Nature

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I spent time doing groundwork, lunging, and simply getting to know Harley. These initial interactions gave me insight into his temperament. Eventually, I decided to try riding him—bareback and with just a halter. To my delight, Harley was perfect. He showed no sass, no bucking, no bolting, and ultimately, no issues at all. He turned out to be an absolute gem.

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Harley’s Role as a Teacher

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With patience, I learned how to communicate with Harley and figured out all his “buttons.” Once I felt confident in his calm demeanor and smooth gait, I realized he would be a wonderful horse for teaching children to ride. Harley thrived on the attention he received and seemed to adore every moment.

From August of 2022 to the present, Harley has been instrumental in teaching countless young, aspiring riders in our program. He has done a remarkable job introducing children to horseback riding and has truly become a saintly presence in their lives. I often find myself wishing I had three more just like him!

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Memorable Moments and Ongoing Impact

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In his first few months with us, Harley made a profound impact by teaching a young adult with only one arm how to walk, trot, and canter with confidence, even accompanying them on trail rides. Now, at 30 years old, Harley continues to teach the youngest riders. He is always the perfect gentleman—allowing kids to catch him in the field, brush him, and ride. Harley thrives on all the attention, the grooming, and especially the cookies he receives. In fact, cookies have become the highlight of his day!

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Kizzy