Kevin McCarthy & Keely O’Hara Join Stone Creek Stables!

Kevin McCarthy

Prior to moving to the United States a decade ago, Kevin McCarthy grew up in Tipperary, immersed in the equine industry competing ponies in Ireland and then grooming throughout Europe. His move to the USA led to several opportunities to train and work with other top industry professionals where he gained invaluable knowledge; Margie Engle, Ralph and Holly Caristo, Darren Graziano, Frank Cunniffe, Paul Tracey, and Niall and Cara Carey.

A few years ago Kevin made the decision to return to competition as an amateur, as he planted roots in Cazenovia, New York where he opened McCarthy’s Pub as his primary business venture. During this period he still continued to ride and compete at the Grand Prix level, where he continued to amass multiple wins across the country at various shows such as Vermont, HITS, WEC, The Hamptons, Mexico City, WEF, Gold Cup, Central Park, etc

Throughout his amateur and professional career, Kevin has specialized in the education of young prospects, developing

numerous horses up through the Grand Prix level. He also enjoys coaching riders, creating a bright future for clients by helping them accomplish their training and horse show goals.

Keely O’Hara

Keely is a 4th generation horseman who has also specialized in bringing along quality young horses who have gone on to win at various shows such as HITS, WEF, Vermont, Saratoga, etc. She has logged many miles in the show ring in a variety of disciplines from the young hunters to the Grand Prix show jumpers.

Keely has had the fortune of being influenced by many top equestrians in the industry including Mark Jungherr, Stepping Stone Farm and her mother, Suzanne McGowan, who owns Evergreen Stables in Upstate, New York. She credits her mother for helping her understand professional training techniques, and instilling in her the “moxy”, determination and patience to train young horses and to develop riders through their adult careers.

“My first cross rail was with Kevin Babington on my first show pony which paid off a few months later when I was champion in the short stirrup at Ocala when I was 6 years old.”

Keely specializes in the correct education of young riders and horses, taking the time to put in the quality education to riders to become their best. Over the years she has started several horses and ponies that have gone on to win at pony finals, earned circuit championships (HITS) and finished the year as zone champions. Many of these horses have become safe reliable children or amateur mounts, and her riders have gone onto win multiple grand and circuit championships as well.

Kevin and Keely are relocating to Stone Creek Stables to relaunch their professional careers, where they will be accepting discerning clientele for training, lessons, clinics and competition. Please inquire for rates and availability!