Dressage Clinic

with Michael Bragdell

About Michael Bragdell

"It is important that I incorporate variety in the training for all of my horses. Some of the tools I use include groundwork, free jumping, longlining, and hacking. I think the variety allows the horses to approach the training with a fresher mind and develops their physical strength and promotes long term soundness."
—Michael Bragdell


Michael is originally from Gothenburg, Sweden and worked several years at a riding school, serving as an instructor and member of the show jumping team. He continued his education in England where he trained and showed young horses for Gustavii Stud. In 1995, Michael joined the Hilltop Team and he now holds the position of Head Trainer. Over the years he has presented numerous stallions and countless mares and foals at breed registry inspections as well as at breed shows around the country.

Michael believes in keeping the work interesting for the young horse to ensure they stay fresh and happy throughout their career. Seven of the youngsters that Michael has started at Hilltop have gone on to top finishes in the USEF/Markel Young/Developing Horse National Championships.

In 2008, Michael captured his first National Championship aboard Selten-HW in the FEI Four-Year Old division and captured this championship again in 2012 with Hemmingway. In 2018 & 2019, Michael and SenSation HW won the USEF Young Horse National Championships. Michael has won seven US Dressage Finals National Championships as well and is a USDF Bronze, Silver, & Gold Medalist. Michael is a USDF Certified Instructor and is available for lessons at Hilltop Farm as well as offering limited clinics.

(Biography from Hilltop Farm, Inc.)