Ortega Equestrian Center

Kathy Holman has had a passion for horses from a very young age. This passion is apparent in her lifelong dedication to the equestrian community and to the preservation of the western heritage of the City of San Juan Capistrano.

Kathy managed Ortega Equestrian Center (OEC) for her sister Deedee Gates for ten years until she and her husband John purchased. It. She has mentored many trainers and instructed many riders during the years of her involvement at OEC, always with the welfare of the horse and safety of the rider being her first and foremost concern. Many of her students see OEC as a safe haven from difficult family situations or for just working through the challenges of growing up. Their experience through 4-H, horse camps, and horse shows taught life