Bios
Owner/Trainer, Tapeta™ Farm
Michael was born in England, where he was Champion Amateur Steeplechase Jockey and a Champion Steeplechase Trainer on three occasions. He began training in the United States in 1987 and Tapeta™ Farm in 1998. In addition to the accomplishments listed in his role of laurels, Michael's U.S. runners have captured over 80 stakes races and eight Grade 1 races.
Vice-President, Tapeta™ Footings, Inc.
Joan has spent a lifetime with horses and comes from a horse family. Like her sister, Joan was a successful show jumping rider in Great Britain, winning at The Royal Show and Hickstead. As an assistant trainer for 15 years and exercise rider, she has been integral to the success of 80 stakes winners.
As our vice president, Joan has been involved with the development of the Tapeta™ synthetic surface since the beginning and now is owner of Tapeta Footings, Inc., along with Michael.
Quality Control Officer Tapeta™ Footings, Inc.
A native of Puerto Rico, the bi-lingual Elvin also comes from a racing background. He spent 20 years riding at numerous racetracks across the United States as an exercise rider. His brother, Jose Caraballo, is a jockey based in the mid-Atlantic region.
At Tapeta™ Footings, Elvin is our quality control officer. He is machine oriented and specializes in hydraulics.
Robert Weber
Farm Manager Tapeta™ Footings, Inc.
Robert Weber is our Farm Manager and the best synthetic track superintendent in the world. He has been here at Tapeta™ Farm for 9 years. He has kept the horses in training on the Tapeta™ Surface through temperature changes, good weather and bad. He has maintained the track in top performance shape with 12 inches of rain in an hour through Hurricanes, cold temperatures and extreme 110 degree heat.
Robert is available to answer any questions or offer advice on the best way to care and maintain a Tapeta™ Footings surface.