IT ALL STARTED WITH, a dream.
In 1956 Tommy Ernest Mayes bought ten acres on the outskirts of Dallas, hoping to create a quiet place where he could sit on his porch, watch his horses, and enjoy the peace of country life. Over the years, the city grew up around him. Roads, neighborhoods, and even a bridge replaced much of the open land, yet one small piece of his dream remained—a pocket of green pasture, barns, and horses in the middle of Dallas.
That dream was never lost. Today, Michael Mayes carries on his grandfather’s legacy, working alongside his wife, Yvonne Kusserow—a classically trained Dressage rider from Germany—to create a home, a community, and a place where people come to learn, grow, and connect with their horses in a way that feels both timeless and deeply personal.
What makes Rocking M so special isn’t just the training or the facilities—it’s the feeling of stepping into a hidden oasis in the heart of the city. With over 50 horses on site and direct access to the White Rock Creek trail, riders find a quiet refuge where horses thrive and people rediscover why they fell in love with riding in the first place. From summer camps that spark children’s first joy in the saddle, to advanced dressage training that builds champions, Rocking M continues to honor its roots: a family’s devotion, a community’s gathering place, and a rare reminder of country life in the middle of Dallas.
Image: Tommy Mayes on his horse Buzzard in Dallas, Texas
Rocking M Stables is led by Mike Mayes and Yvonne Kusserow.
Over the years, Rocking M has grown into a welcoming equestrian community in Dallas, known for its high-quality training, supportive atmosphere, and dedication to the German System! From hosting clinics and competitive programs to developing confident riders and well-trained horses, Rocking M continues to be a trusted destination for those passionate about horsemanship and Dressage.
OUR TRAINERS
Meet the Rocking M Stables training team. We specialize in classical training for horse and rider, with our main focus in the discipline of Dressage. Combining European tradition with years of experience, our trainers guide every horse and rider through the principles of the German Training Scale. From foundational instruction to advanced competition preparation, we are committed to cultivating precision, balance, and confidence in every partnership.
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Yvonne Kusserow
HEAD TRAINER
Yvonne Kusserow, a German-certified Dressage rider and trainer is the Head Trainer at Rocking M Stables in Dallas. A USDF Bronze, Silver and Gold medalist, she is recognized for her clear, progressive, and compassionate approach. Yvonne was also the 2016 Region 9 Teaching Excellence Award recipient, which purpose is to showcase and honor excellence in Dressage teachers!
At Rocking M’s full-service facility, Yvonne offers refined instruction, tailored training, and expert show preparation for horse and rider
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Allison stai
TRAINER
Allison Stai, a dedicated Dressage instructor at Rocking M Stables, artfully nurtures young riders within a foundation rooted in Pony Club and the German Training Scale. Allison is a USDF Bronze and Silver medalist and known for her clarity, compassion, and personalized approach, she has guided numerous youth and adult amateur riders—including those with unique learning needs—to confidently progress through the levels. Over the years, Allison has coached Rocking M students on multiple trips to Festival of Champions as well as NAYC. She offers tailored instruction, supportive coaching, and a nurturing path for horse-and-rider partnerships to thrive
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Karey Hopkins
TRAINER
Karey Hopkins, a skilled coach at Rocking M Stables in Dallas, brings a thoughtful and supportive approach to both horse and rider. Spending many hours on her family’ ranch growing up, Karey’s background lies in western and horsemanship. After connecting with Yvonne at Rocking M in 2009 and many successful years supporting her daughter riding and competing, Karey has been to Germany numerous times for her own education, earning the German Big Bronze Medal. At Rocking M, Karey offers individualized lessons with giving special attention to theory during rides but also in the classroom. With and hands-on guidance, she is helping riders strengthen their skills while fostering balance, communication, and trust.