The Team
At H and F Stables, we pride ourselves on having a strong team of professionals who are passionate about caring for horses. We believe that every horse deserves the absolute best care and attention. Our staff is dedicated to creating an environment that is safe and comfortable for horses and their riders. We also provide a range of services that cater to both horse and owner, such as quality boarding and training programs.
Agathe Herteux
Proprietor
Ever since Agathe Herteux was a child, horses have held a special place in her heart. They have been a constant source of comfort and support, especially during challenging times in her life.
Agathe was fortunate to have the opportunity to work with Thomas FUCHS, an Olympic-level rider, in Switzerland for over a year. Additionally, she had the privilege of working with other 5-star international competition riders.
Six years ago, she embarked on a new venture by starting a small breeding business and also purchased horses for competition, as jumping remains her true passion.
In promoting her horses, Agathe had the pleasure of meeting two exceptional young individuals: Florian Ferry and Camille Richou.
"Florian possesses a remarkable ability to unlock the full potential of each horse while treating them with respect and communicating with them effectively. He is a true phenomenon, and his talent is undeniable," Agathe said, "Camille's kindness and attentiveness to all the horses are truly admirable. She is a gifted rider who listens attentively to each horse's needs."
"Our team is uniquely balanced, with each member bringing their own expertise and responsibilities. We prioritize open communication, ensuring that our horses are always heard and understood."
Florian Ferry
Stables Manager
Florian Ferry’s passion for horseback riding began at the tender age of 4 1/2, when his desire to climb on a horse's back became stronger than anything else. Occasional pony rides weren't enough to satisfy his growing interest, so his parents were determined to find a way for him to pursue my passion regularly.
At the age of 4, Florian enrolled in a riding club in Paris, France, where he discovered the world of horses and the thrill of horseback riding. It quickly became more than just a sport for him; it was a vital need, a growing thirst for learning and a source of endless joy.
At the age of 8, he participated in his first obstacle jumping competition and was completely captivated by the sport, combining his love for horses with his competitive spirit.
Over the years, he continued to train with renowned French riders from the Olympic and 5* levels, including Jean Marc Nicolas, Jacques Capnet, Franck Anquetin, and Julien Anquetin. Their expertise provided Florian with the technical skills and knowledge he needed to excel as a competition rider.
In 2021, a serendipitous encounter led Florian to a collaboration with Ms. Agathe Heurteux. After sharing their visions and philosophies regarding horses and obstacle jumping, he knew they were a perfect match.
Their partnership quickly flourished, establishing a foundation of trust and mutual respect. Together, they achieved remarkable results in national and international 2* events, competing on courses up to 1.40 meters.
A new challenge brought them to Aiken, South Carolina, a city steeped in equestrian history and brimming with passion for horses. Florian is eager to explore this vibrant community and continue pursuing his dreams as a competition rider.
"Avec Dieu derrière moi, je gagne!"
"With God behind me, I win!"
Camille Richou
Lead Instructor
With two equestrian parents and a father as the manager of an equestrian center, it's safe to say that Camille Richou was practically born into the world of horses.
She began taking riding lessons at the tender age of three. By the time she was eight, she was fortunate enough to have her very own pony, and that's when her passion for show jumping competitions truly ignited. Camille always knew that working with horses was her calling.
After completing her baccalaureate, Camille pursued a diploma in business management with a focus on sports and academics. This was the only educational path that would allow her to continue riding horses daily. At the age of 20, she obtained her certificate of professional qualification in equestrian activity teaching (CQP EAE), and she later followed that up with a coaching diploma (DEJEPS). She has always been drawn to the idea of sharing her passion with others.
During this time, Camille also worked as a rider and coach at her father's stables and rode the horses owned by the stables' patrons, trained young horses, and taught classes to individuals of all ages and skill levels. Her primary focus was on training and competing with young riders, taking them to the French championships every year.
Simultaneously, she continued to compete in national and international competitions, achieving success in events up to 1m35.
After seven years with the same team, she was thrilled to join the H&F team in December 2022, embarking on a new and exciting adventure!
"I am committed to providing my students with the highest quality instruction and helping them reach their full potential in the equestrian world."
Patrick Peter
Culinary Director
Patrick Peter was born on October 9, 1952. He gained his Certificat d'Aptitude Professionnelle service et cuisine on November 3, 1969. His greatest influence was his parents, who had a restaurant in Mulhouse, France, in the Alsace region. The family restaurant specialized in traditional French home cooking. Before opening the family restaurant, Patrick's father worked as a butcher in Chicago in the 1930s and then in New York as a bartender for Jack Dempsey. Patrick's mother earned Cordon Bleu awards and diplomas. Patrick's first formal training was in Strasbourg, where he attended school for three months each year and the rest of the year he worked as an apprentice in the restaurant Caveau du Theatre. The owner of the restaurant, Oscar Wabnitz, was the chef saucier for Ferdinand Point of la Pyramide fame. Patrick still reads books from France and checks out the news from other kitchens with chefs and friends in Switzerland and France. He cooks the same things at home and in a restaurant.