EC Trainer Profile Featuring Clint Ainsworth
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By Sue Winslow
Clint Ainsworth of Lithonia, Georgia, is one of the most respected horsemen in the industry. Clinician, trainer, competitor, coach, and judge – he wears many hats in a demanding industry. But Ainsworth thrives on the challenge of developing first-class horses and riders, and he has earned a reputation for producing winners at the top level of competition, specializing in all-around events. He and his clients have won multiple AQHA and APHA World Championships and Reserve World Championships, multiple Congress Championships and Reserve Championships and numerous NSBA World Championships and Reserve Championships.
Ainsworth’s background is rich in experience in a wide variety of disciplines, and he has a deep understanding of both horses and the industry, having spent years in the show pen and paying his dues before becoming a professional horseman. That unique combination of experience, and the natural ability to teach, enables Ainsworth to help his clients refine and attain their goals. His love of the animal and the sport came naturally. Ainsworth has loved horses ever since he can remember.
Ainsworth’s passion for horses followed in the footsteps of his grandfather who raised and raced Standardbreds. Ainsworth grew up in Van Wert, Ohio, and was in the saddle as soon as his parents would allow him to take lessons. He recalls, “When I was quite young, I began taking riding lessons at a local barn that was run by a woman named Diane Foltz, who was a wonderful instructor and taught the fundamentals of horsemanship. From there, I began showing locally in everything from 4-H to Pony Club and open shows. I was introduced to Reining in college, while attending Ohio State University, and started showing for their IHSA team.”
After graduating from Ohio State, Ainsworth went to work for Ollie and Debbie Griffith, coaches of the IHSA team he rode with in college. Then he worked for Bobbie Emmons for several years, as well as Michael Colvin. Ainsworth recalls the value of the education he received by riding with and working for these talented horsemen. “Diane Foltz, my first riding instructor, is one of my greatest mentors. She taught me at a young age that good horsemanship is the foundation for great riding. I learned a lot while riding with Ollie and Debbie Griffith, and they were the first to introduce me to Reining, as well as all-around events.”
