Our Story

 After the inception of EPILLC in 2016, Renato and Stephanie have remained steadfast and true to their craft, developing a reputation within the equestrian industry for their professionalism, horsemanship, and unwavering passion for their horses and the sport of show jumping. While their stories began on different continents, both Renato and Stephanie's desire and willingness to share their knowledge and love of the sport with fellow equestrians remains the same.

    Renato's story began in Milan, Italy. A family history in thoroughbred racing sparked an early interest in horses, and lead Renato to achieve much success as a junior show jumping rider in Italy, earning top placings at the Italian Championships from 2003-2005. After a successful junior career, Renato set off on a journey across Europe working for top professionals in the industry, including Francois Mathy Sr, Jr , Neco Pessoa, Orlando Izzo, Claudio Bonati, and Jesus Torres Garcia. Professional career highlights include training and developing a string of top horses for Princess Haya's Team Harmony (Cero, Polinska des Isles, D'Atlantique Royale) and the stallion Royal Vinckenburg, who was piloted by Rodrigo Diaz for Team Columbia in the London 2012 Olympics. After spending 10 years working in Europe, Renato decided to begin a new chapter in his equestrian career in the United States working for Brianne Goutal, riding and training her string of championship horses alongside Katie and Henri Prudent. Ever since, Renato has continued to collaborate with numerous top professionals and barns in the industry and has become well regarded and sought after for his expertise.

   While Stephanie didn't have a family history with horses, her passion and love for animals was clear from an early age. Stephanie grew up in Toronto, Ontario and rode as an amateur in the sport for several years at Beth Underhill Stables. Career highlights include winning the Canadian National High Jr/Am Jumper Championship at the Royal Winter Fair in 2013, and being named to the Canadian National Talent Squad in 2014. After graduating from the University of Toronto with an Honours Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Physiology and Cell and Systems Biology, Stephanie decided to further her riding career in the United States. After continued success in the amateur ranks, Stephanie officially turned professional in 2021. The transition from amateur to professional can be daunting, but with the support of family, friends, sponsors and a steadfast determination, her list of results and achievements are ever growing and can be appreciated within the pages of this website.