Andover Equestrian, LLC is proudly owned and operated by Marissa Gough — a lifelong equestrian, entrepreneur, and dedicated horsewoman. With over 15 years of experience managing boarding facilities and a degree in Equine Sciences, Marissa brings both expertise and passion to every aspect of the farm.
Her vision for Andover Equestrian is simple: to create a fun, family-friendly atmosphere where horses can be horses, and their owners can truly enjoy their time at the barn. The well-being of the horses is always the top priority, and Marissa is committed to fostering a supportive, welcoming community where riders and their equine partners can thrive.
Marissa, along with her spirited 6-year-old daughter Blake and loyal German Shepherd Arlo, is fully invested in the daily life of the barn. With horses of her own at both farm locations — some of whom have been part of her program from the very beginning — Marissa leads by example, creating a hands-on, heart-led environment for boarders and students alike.
Kat Fish grew up on the North Shore learning to ride horses at age six. She later became a working student to a local event rider, helping retrain off the track thoroughbreds for their new career.
While working toward her degree in Equine Business Management at Post University under Carole Baker, Kat competed on their IDA team.
After college, Kat started to focus more on dressage under Bereiter FN Katja Eilers who allowed her to gain valuable experience showing imported sales horses and riding with clinicians Christophe Theallet, Gerrit-Claes Bierenbroodspot, and Christian Garweg.
Kat then started her professional career as an exercise rider and trainer full-time in 2012 based out of Westchester NY. In 2018, she began her teaching career working with students of all ages from first lessons to the show ring.
After moving back to the area in 2019, Kat obtained her MA riding instructor license and then welcomed her son Leo in March 2020. She has been at Andover Equestrian since 2023 and can be found with either her ponies Pumpkin and Kokonut, Lola her dog or Leo trailing not too far behind.
Like a lot of little girls, I was horse obsessed! After years of begging my parents I began riding when I was 12. I worked at numerous barns to earn as much saddle time as possible. At 15, I purchased my first horse, Bailey. I earned my degree in early childhood education and work in special education. Teaching is my passion both in the classroom and in the arena. I adapt my teaching methods to the individual to provide a safe and positive learning experience. My goal is to share what I have learned about horsemanship and riding over the past couple decades with others.
When I'm not teaching you can find me on the sidelines supporting my kids (Travis, Kimber and Kylie).