Team Brawley

Debbie Brawley, owner and lead riding instructor at Brawley Farms North, has dedicated her life to the art and education of horseback riding. A second-generation rider trained by her mother, Judy Blevins Brawley, she combines a strong foundation in classical riding principles with extensive professional experience. Under her leadership, Brawley Farms North provides comprehensive instruction and training for riders of all levels, emphasizing horsemanship, skill development, and partnership with the horse. Together with assistant trainer Rachel Nicholas, Debbie guides students in both lessons and competition, including participation on the A-rated circuit, continuing the Brawley family’s enduring legacy of excellence and equestrian education.

Rachel Nicholas is a professional rider and instructor at Brawley Farms North. She began her riding journey in the foothills of Boise, Idaho, and credits her horsemanship to years of working with talented hunter/jumper trainers as well as experience in dressage and western disciplines. Her diverse background has shaped her thoughtful, well-rounded approach to riding and teaching.

Rachel has been a valued member of the Brawley team since 2010. She has competed in numerous Derbies and was the 2018 Regional Performance 3’3″ Hunter Champion aboard Renaissance. Her experience in the show ring gives her unique insight into both training and competition, which she brings into every lesson.

Passionate about helping riders grow, Rachel focuses on developing strong partnerships between horse and rider. She takes pride in seeing her students progress, gain confidence, and develop a true understanding and respect for their horses. Rachel hopes to inspire the same love of horses and dedication to horsemanship that have guided her throughout her own career, creating a positive and rewarding experience for every rider she teaches.

Katherine Vandehey began riding at a young age under Suzy Huizenga of Twin Maples Farm in Lynden, Washington. Her hunter/jumper foundation led her to explore a wide range of disciplines, including eventing, western pleasure, dressage, gaming, fox hunting, saddleseat, team sorting, and driving.

After earning her bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Katherine began buying and selling project horses, focusing on colt starts and restarts to help develop solid, well-rounded horses for a variety of jobs. Before coming to Brawley Farms North, she managed and trained a nationally ranked six-horse hitch of Belgian draft horses that showed coast to coast. She is also the world title holder for the Amateur Four Horse Hitch in the Belgian breed.

At Brawley Farms North, Katherine can often be found long lining training horses, helping with professional rides, and working alongside the veterinary and farrier team to support each horse’s success. As a mother herself, she especially enjoys working with younger students and helping them develop confidence in their horsemanship.

Madilynn “Mad” Whitmore is the Assistant Barn Manager at Brawley Farms and the backbone of Brawley Farm's daily operations. She manages the vital behind-the-scenes details that keep the facility running smoothly and ensures each horse receives thoughtful, meticulous care.

Mad grew up in Sherwood, Oregon, and began riding in middle school. Her experience spans jumping, dressage, western riding, and hands-on ranch work throughout Wyoming, South Dakota, and Montana. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in Business with a minor in Farm and Ranch Management.

At the barn, Mad brings a practical, knowledgeable, and steady approach to horse care and daily operations. Outside of work, she can usually be found riding her own horses or spending time with her dogs. Her dog Atlas is a constant companion and can often be found tagging along wherever she goes.