Meet the team behind
Victory Training Center
Meet the Owners
Welcome! We are CJ and Dan, a passionate husband-and-wife team dedicated to creating a premier equestrian facility in Western New York. Our journey together began ten years ago, and for the past five years, we have shared our lives not only in marriage but also in our shared love for horses and the farm we call home.
In 2022, Dan and CJ started their journey building Victory Training Center from the ground up. It has been a labor of love, filled with blood, sweat, and tears, but the result is a facility that we take immense pride in. Every brick, every fence, and every stall reflects our dedication to providing the best for our horses and clients. And we’re not done yet—we have big plans for the future! As we continue to expand, we are committed to adding new amenities and improvements to make our facility an even better place for our clients. Read more about our story...
CJ has been in the horse industry for over 30 years, beginning her riding career at the age of five. Her impressive show career includes national and world championships across the Friesian, Arabian, and Saddlebred horse circuits. She has worked and shown horses for several prestigious barns including Strawberry Banks, Denise Vespa Stables, Wallen Central, and Lorick Stables. Her passion and expertise make her an exceptional horsewoman, always striving for excellence and growth. CJ is currently in the process of obtaining her Arabian and Friesian judges cards and looks forward to being part of the judging community, contributing her expertise, and supporting the continued growth of both industries.
We also live right here on the farm, sharing our home with six dogs, two cats, and our four beloved horses. Beyond the farm, Dan is a champion racecar driver and has owned a successful landscaping business for over 30 years. When we’re not on the farm, you’ll likely find us on an adventure—snowmobiling, at the racetrack, or exploring new places together.
CJ at 12 years old with her childhood show horse
AA Gidalyah++/
"Earl"
"This isn’t just a job—it’s our passion, our life, and our dream come true. Every horse we train, every rider we teach, and every moment spent in the barn is a reminder of why we built this from the ground up. We put our hearts into everything we do, and there’s nothing we’d rather be doing."
CJ & Dan at IFSHA Nationals with Shangri La PBF
"Lollie"
We are committed to providing a high-quality environment for both horses and riders. Whether you are here to train, compete, or simply enjoy horses, we welcome you to be a part of our journey.
Thank you for visiting, and we look forward to sharing our passion with you!
Our Story - Building Our Dream
When Victory Training Center was first imagined, the property looked very different than it does today. What stood on the land was a falling-down, more than 100-year-old barn and the vision of what could be built with hard work, care, and commitment.
Courtney and Dan personally undertook the restoration of the barn, rebuilding it piece by piece and giving new life to a structure that held generations of history. Wherever possible, original materials were preserved and reclaimed. Wood from the original barn was thoughtfully repurposed and incorporated into the space, blending the past with the future of Victory Training Center.
This hands-on approach reflects the values that guide everything we do. Nothing here was rushed or outsourced. Every decision was made with purpose, longevity, and respect for tradition in mind. The result is a training center built not only to function, but to last.
Victory Training Center is more than a facility. It is the product of dedication, craftsmanship, and a shared dream to create a place where horses and riders can thrive in an environment rooted in care, intention, and pride of ownership.
... and we aren't done yet! Check out our upcoming expansion plans!.
Contact
12287 Clarence Center Rd
Akron, NY 14001
CJ Dressel, Owner/Trainer
Call or text: 716-560-5732
