In 1989, Mike and Liz Krens established Aerohill Farm at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains in western Loudoun County, Virginia.

Although we had owned and ridden horses all our lives, we wanted to combine our love of the outdoors with our love for animals.

We participated in our first competitive trail ride in 1990. This experience opened a door to a new and exciting world. Competitive trail and endurance riding showed us the value and joy of developing a special relationship with an outstanding equine athlete. It also taught us the difference between being a "rider" and being a "horseman," one who is a true partner and teammate with a horse. To excel in this sport, we went to experienced friends, to researchers, to breeders and to seasoned competitors to learn more about how to keep our horses healthy, happy and sound.

Mike Krens

Horses have always been a major part of my life. Growing up on a farm, we used horses to work cattle and for pleasure riding. When Liz and I started competing in endurance rides, we realized how important it was to keep our horses well shod. In 1991 I went to horseshoeing school and became a professional farrier. My business quickly expanded into starting young horses and retraining problem horses. Every horse is different. Shoeing a horse for his specific job keeps me current with the latest techniques and the best thinking about how to maintain a horse that is sound and fit for his work. I also enjoy the challenge of training horses so they develop into safe and reliable companions for their owners.

Liz Krens

I have always loved horses and began riding lessons at the age of nine. I showed hunter jumpers when I was a kid, and I loved it. But trail riding taught me the difference between short-term performance and long-term partnership, and my skills as a horsewoman developed as a result of long hours in the backcountry. My job as Director of Finance for the Town of Purcellville is challenging and enjoyable, but not half as much fun as working with the horses. I help Mike in all aspects of the work at Aerohill Farm, but my special interest is the foals. I love working with them from the minute they are born, and I work with them daily to socialize them so they are ready to accept training when they are older.

Mike and Liz - the TEAM

Together, we have logged over 8,000 miles in distance competition. Although our goal is not to be first across the finish line in endurance races, our horses have won many year-end performance and mileage awards with the East Coast Competitive Trail Riding Association (ECTRA). Mike's ¾ Arabian mare, Wicomico Harika, and Liz's Arabian Makisig each have over 2,000 miles in competition. With this amount of trail experience, we are confident that we have the knowledge to understand what it takes to make a great trail horse.

When it is time for you to look for a horse that will be your companion in many exciting adventures, come to Aerohill Farm.

 

In 2005, we traveled to Kunming, China and adopted our daughter, Morgan Liang-Yu Krens, at nine months old. Morgan has been a delight and has developed our affinity of animals of all types and sizes. We now have added a bunny, Mai, and a Welsh/POA cross pony, Moonkat, to our menagerie. We can't wait until Morgan is old enough to join us on the trails!

 

 

Mike and Liz Krens
PO Box 2653, Purcellville, VA 20134
540-668-7243
info@aerohillfarm.com