Reigning Phoenix
Jenna S. Nuth
Founder, Owner, Comptetitor, & Coach
With over a decade of experience in the equestrian industry, Nuth combines a deep-rooted passion for horsemanship with a disciplined approach to competition and instruction. A lifelong rider who began trailering foundations before she held a driver’s license, she has since translated that lifelong commitment into the founding of Reigning Phoenix Equestrian.
Nuth is recognized for her ability to structure high-engagement educational programs, having developed multiple summer camps and lesson curricula celebrated by students and staff alike. Her teaching philosophy is anchored in uncompromising safety and rock-solid foundations. Nuth emphasizes that true horsemanship begins on the ground; by prioritizing comprehensive groundwork and understanding equine biomechanics, she ensures her students are as confident and capable on the lead line as they are in the irons.
Igniting the Fire for Horsemanship
Nuth’s specialty lies in creating confident, empowered riders who possess an insatiable "fire" for learning. Her curriculum is designed for those who want to go beyond the basics, drawing from her diverse background to provide exposure to a wide array of disciplines. She specializes in bareback riding and the development of a secure, independent seat, teaching riders how to achieve balance and harmony with and without a saddle.
Nuth rejects a "one-size-fits-all" mentality, instead focusing on:
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Adaptive Leadership:
Developing a problem-solving, calm, and confident mindset in the rider to become the trusted partner a horse requires. -
Behavioral Science:
Actively expanding her curriculum into learning theory and behavior modification. She applies the science of how horses process information to solve "problem behaviors" at the root through clear psychological reinforcement. -
The Bond Beyond Tack:
While her competitive background is rooted in the Hunter/Jumper and Equitation circuits—competing up to 3' in Hunt Seat and 3’6” in Stadium Jumping—she is currently taking a deliberate hiatus from the show arena. This allows her to focus on liberty work, bridleless training, and trick training, where communication is based on trust rather than physical force.
Leadership & The Complete Equestrian
A community-minded leader, Nuth served as the volunteer coach for the Elizabeth Seton High School Equestrian Club in Bladensburg, MD, from 2018 until 2023. This five-year tenure allowed her to mentor young athletes and shape the next generation of equestrians before moving into her next chapter with Reigning Phoenix.
An advocate for the "whole horse" approach, Nuth’s expertise extends far beyond the saddle. Her curriculum includes essential training in equine first aid and comprehensive horse care, ensuring her students are prepared for the responsibilities of horse ownership and emergency management. Nuth has competed across prestigious leagues including the National Capital Equitation League (NCEL), the Inter-School Horse Show Series (ISHS), the Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA), the Black-Eyed Susan Horse Show Series (BEST), and the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA). Her personal horses are a testament to her training standards, having earned invitations to the Thoroughbred Alliance Show Series and the Colonial Classic.
Whether she is practicing the precision of mounted archery, navigating a new trail obstacles, or pursuing new endeavors like endurance races, Nuth brings a unique perspective shaped by her career as a quality assurance software engineer. She approaches every equine endeavor—from the logic of behavior modification to the joy of a trail ride—with the same precision, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to excellence that defines her professional life.
