Our Board
The LA Chapter of CDS is led by a volunteer board of directors who help plan and oversee the chapter’s programs and events. Together, the board manages the chapter’s budget, organizes local shows and educational opportunities, coordinates the year-end awards and banquet, and supports member outreach and sponsorship.
Each board member brings their own experience as a rider, professional, or volunteer—and shares a commitment to growing an inclusive, well-run dressage community here in Los Angeles.
Sarahbell Kleinman
Interim Chapter Chair
Sarahbell Kleinman is a professional dressage trainer and FEI rider with over 20 years of experience. She has trained with respected professionals including Sue Blinks, Mette Rosencrantz, Rebecca Rigdon, David Blake, and Kristina Harrison and continues to ride in clinics with top coaches like Steffen Peters and Christine Traurig.
Her program emphasizes correct basics, positive communication, and good horsemanship. On the board, Sarahbell focuses on encouraging member participation and creating a positive, welcoming environment at events. (Photo credit: Elena Dotoli)
Anna Armstrong
Board Member, Secretary
Anna Armstrong is a lifelong amateur rider who fell in love with dressage as a teen and has been involved with CDS ever since. She currently trains her homebred Oldenburg mare and has brought along several Thoroughbreds over the years.
A frequent volunteer and scribe, Anna enjoys helping riders feel welcomed and informed. Professionally, she’s a landscape architect and co-owner of Armstrong & Walker, a firm focused on sustainable design with native plants.
Ann Blythe
Board Member
Ann Blythe grew up riding and showing Quarter Horses outside of Rochester, New York, then took a 20-year break to earn her PhD and build her career. She returned to riding 15 years ago and now owns two dressage horses that came to her as youngsters: Habanero, an Oldenburg gelding she showed through Third Level, and Jazper, a KWPN gelding currently competing at Third Level.
Ann volunteers her time to support chapter events and is especially passionate about education for junior and adult amateur riders.
Sam Gioia
Board Member, Interim Treasurer
Sam Gioia is a USDF Bronze Medalist and is working towards her Silver. As founder of Bridle Path Creative, she designs websites and brands for equine professionals, and on the board she uses that work to make the chapter easier to find, join, and enjoy.
Her current project is a full overhaul of the California Dressage Society website and she's excited to help members engage more with CDS.
Marissa Krupa
Board Member
Marissa Krupa grew up riding in Pony Club and eventing, and later found her way to dressage after moving to Los Angeles. She now trains her mare, Rivahna, and competes as an adult amateur.
Working in technology for the entertainment industry, Marissa brings both professional skills and a rider perspective to her role on the board. She especially enjoys supporting chapter events and helping new members feel connected.
