Our Team
Christie Farren – Co-Founder & Lead Saddle Fitter
Christie is the co-founder of CF Equine Ltd and leads on all saddle fitting and leatherwork services. Horses have been a central part of her life for as long as she can remember, and her experience spans both competitive sport and professional equestrian care.
Before joining the British Army in 2014, Christie worked with horses full-time producing Irish event horses for sale, grooming on the international show jumping circuit, and competing her own horses in British Eventing and British Showjumping.
During her Army career, Christie served in the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery, taking part in major state ceremonial parades, including the Queen’s funeral. She also represented the British Army in show jumping at international level.
Alongside her riding background, Christie holds an NVQ in Horse Care and is a qualified BHS instructor. In 2020, she began a formal apprenticeship with the Society of Master Saddlers (SMS), training in traditional saddlery and saddle fitting. Since then, she has gained multiple industry-recognised qualifications, including:
• Qualified Saddler and Harness Maker
• Qualified Saddle Fitter and Bridle Fitter
• LANTRA-accredited Bitting Consultant
• Distinction in Equine Bits and Bitting Science
• Abbey England Saddlery Scholarship Award
Christie continues to take part in SMS competitions, where her work has been recognised for its quality and attention to detail.
With a practical and empathetic approach, Christie works closely with horses and riders to ensure comfort, balance, and performance—bringing together years of hands-on experience with a deep commitment to horse welfare.
Michael Cardin – Co-Founder & Operations Director
Michael is the co-founder of CF Equine Ltd and leads on business operations, client liaison, and financial administration. With over 17 years’ experience in the British Army, he brings a structured and dependable approach to managing the day-to-day functions of the business.
Enlisting in 2005, Michael served as a Combat Human Resource Specialist in the Adjutant General’s Corps, supporting a wide range of operational, administrative, and financial functions. His military career has included deployments to Afghanistan, Iraq, Kenya, Gibraltar, Kuwait, Belize, and the Czech Republic, where he worked closely with both UK and multinational forces.
He supported a number of high-profile units including 2 SCOTS, the Intelligence Corps, 22 SAS, the Army Air Corps, The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery, Joint Support Administration Unit (London) and British Military Advisory Training Team.
Throughout his service, Michael has been responsible for personnel records, payroll systems, and financial coordination at both unit and headquarters level. He also completed specialist training in instructional techniques and finance.
At CF Equine, Michael applies this wealth of experience to ensure the business operates smoothly, client communications are managed professionally, and all financial and compliance matters are in order allowing Christie to focus on saddle fitting and craftsmanship.
