Meet Our Horses

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Age: 25  Breed: Norwegian Fjord

Color: Buttermilk Dun - Favorite Treat(s): Molasses muffins Shadow has a strong background in English riding, making him ideal for students interested in low-level jumping and developing solid fundamentals. Known as the “bumpiest horse in the barn,” he’s perfect for teaching the posting trot and helping riders build balance and confidence. Calm and steady, Shadow also shines as a therapeutic riding partner, offering gentle support and patience to riders of all abilities. 

Fun Facts: He is originally from Canada and is Known as a Premarin baby (rescued from the PMU industry) •  Shadow is Miss Tori’s first horse, and they’ve been together since 2008!  Miss Tori and Shadow are both the same age (25) 

Instructor’s Note: “Shadow taught me everything I know about confidence, connection, and partnership. I got him when I was just 8 years old, and from the very beginning, he taught me what it means to love and care for another being. We’ve grown up together. He’s carried me through every stage of my horse journey, and now, he’s helping new riders take their very first steps! Watching him take care of others the way he took care of me is something really special. He’s not just my first horse, he’s my heart horse.” -Miss Tori 

Age: 18 Breed: Quarter Horse 

Color: Chestnut 

Favorite Treat(s): Black licorice & banana
  Dash is a versatile and experienced lesson horse who excels in a wide range of disciplines to suit riders of all levels. In our program, he participates in barrel racing, pole bending, low-level jumping, and general western and English riding. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills on  a pattern, try your hand at small jumps, or simply build confidence in the saddle, Dash is a dependable, fun, and well-rounded partner for the ride.

 Fun Facts: He likes to play with his tongue when he’s bored. He lifts his front right leg when eating grain. it’s his signature move! He loves only blue Gatorade, nothing else will do!  Instructor’s Note about Dash: “Dash is the barn clown and a total goofball. Always finding a way to make people laugh, whether it’s by playing with his tongue or making silly faces at the gate. He’s curious, playful, and full of personality. But under saddle, he means business in the best way. Dash is steady, safe, and honest, making him a fantastic teacher for students looking to gain confidence and explore multiple disciplines. He thrives on attention, loves to be part of the action, and is a favorite among both kids and adults.”– Miss Tori    

 Age: 9  Breed: Quarter Horse  

Color: Chestnut 

Favorite Treat(s): Peppermints, 

molasses muffins  

Cinch is here to teach students the exciting world of western games! He excels at disciplines such as barrel racing, pole bending, and mounted shooting. He’s athletic, responsive, and loves having a job, especially one that involves speed and precision. 

Fun Facts: Cinch is always ready to work but loves to show off a bit while doing it. He’s known around the barn for his smooth turns and quick feet. Cinch has a brand on his left hip.    

Instructor’s Note: “Cinch is a powerhouse in a small, shiny chestnut package. He’s sharp, driven, and a blast to ride for students ready to take the next step in their western journey. Whether  you’re chasing cans or weaving poles, Cinch gives his all every time. He does best with confident riders who enjoy a challenge and are looking to grow their skills in game events. He’s dependable, quick-footed, and brings his A-game to every ride, a true asset to the program and a favorite among our western riders.” -Miss Tori 

 Age: 10  Breed: Quarter Horse

  Color: Red Dun

Favorite Treat(s):  Carrots 

Role in the lesson program: Spirit is currently in training to become a versatile and dependable lesson horse, with a foundation in both English and Western riding. As he continues to grow in his education, Spirit will be offered to confident beginner and intermediate riders looking to build their skills in a thoughtful, progressive way. He is best suited for riders who enjoy learning alongside their horse, gaining not just riding experience, but also the value of patience, trust, and partnership. Spirit will eventually excel in both arena work and out-of-arena adventures, making him a well-rounded asset to the program. 

Fun Facts: • Spirit is a rescue with a big heart and a fresh start at life. • He’s obsessed with his reflection, he knows he’s a handsome boy! • Spirit is curious, playful, and eager to learn when he feels safe with his rider.

 Instructor’s Note: “Spirit is the kind of horse that makes you work for it, and that’s why he’s so special. He taught me that trust has to be earned, and that patience is everything. Once he lets you in, the bond is unshakable. He’s shown me that when a horse finally believes in their rider, there’s no limit to what they’ll give you in return. Spirit is brave, smart, and becoming something truly incredible.” – Miss Tori 

 Age: 10  Breed: Quarter Horse

Color: Dun Paint 

Favorite Treat(s): Peppermints, apples and    molasses muffins 

Role in the lesson program: Meeko is the golden retriever of Stride in Style! Sweet, steady, and always ready to make someone feel safe. With his calm demeanor and patient nature, he is the ultimate confidence booster for riders of all ages. Slow and steady is his style, making him the perfect partner for beginners, nervous riders, and anyone looking to build trust in the saddle. 

Fun Facts: • Meeko is a total cuddle bug and loves attention just as much as treats. • Meeko has a “built-in nap mode! He’s been known to snooze in the cross ties,    mid-groom, or even waiting for his turn in the arena. • Meeko has a show name  - “Hollywood Mischief” 

Instructor’s Note: “Meeko is truly the heart of the barn. He has a gift for making riders feel seen, safe, and capable. He never rushes, never judges, and always gives 100% of his gentle spirit. He teaches the value of patience, the importance of connection, and the joy of simply being present. He is Mr. Reliable whether you’re learning how to steer, or trot, or even gain some extra confidence, Meeko is the go-to horse for a feel good ride!”  - Miss Tori

Age: 14  

Breed: American Paint Horse

                      Color: Tobiano                                  

Favorite Treat(s): Peppermints

Role in the lesson program:   Sissy is our western queen! Bold, Confident, and Full of Personality! She specializes in intermediate to advanced lessons, with her strong suit being barrel racing and other timed events. Whether you’re looking to shave seconds off your pattern or refine your seat and cue precision, Sissy is the partner that makes every ride count.

Fun Facts: •  Sissy'sfavorite activities are being a pasture princess and barrel racing! • Her nicknames are Sassy, Miss Mare, or Sis. •  Sissy’s birthday is 

August 10, 2010  

Instructor’s Note: “Sissy is a confident and spirited mare! She’s famous for creating a healthy challenge, balanced perfectly to help students learn how to work through struggles during a lesson. Whether it’s mastering a tricky barrel pattern or building better control, Sissy encourages riders to grow while keeping lessons fun and engaging. Despite her sassy side, she’s incredibly reliable and patient, making her a fantastic partner for western riding and speed events. Her unique personality and steady attitude make her a standout, and being the barn’s only mare definitely adds to her charm!” Miss Tori

  Age: 26  Breed: Appendix  

  Color: Dark Bay

Favorite Treat(s): Bananas and watermelon  

Role in the lesson program:  Ice is the perfect mount for young riders and first timers.  He has been teaching folks to ride since he was seven years old after a career as a western pleasure show horse.  As a school master, Ice has competed in hunter jumper, barrels, drill team and both English and western pleasure.  He loves attention and will gladly doze while being surrounded by fans who just want to be near him!  He is stunning in the sunlight as his jet black coat shines and he is as gentle and forgiving as they come. Fun facts: Ice's show name is “fantasy on ice”.  He can open stall doors and untie knots. Ice will beg for treats with a gentle tilt of his head. He has an emotional support donkey.

Instructor’s Note: "Ice is the perfect partner for private lessons with beginners or advanced riders who understand how to bring out the best in him.  He is highly trained but prefers to travel at a snail's pace making it easy for a trainer to walk next to him while he trots.  He has smooth gaits and some cool moves and he loves to show off his fancy skills when asked by an experienced rider." -

 Miss Hope    

            Age: 15    Breed: Arabian    

 Color: Rose gold flea bitten grey      Favorite Treat(s): Bananas and peppermints   

Role in the lesson program:   Bodhi is a seasoned lesson horse and therapy horse.  He has travelled to compete in various disciplines both English and western, has participated in parades and festivals and is a brave leader on the trails.  He is athletic and agile while also being docile and easy going.  Bodhi is a horse who will take care of young riders and those with special needs, but can also shine in a show ring jumping fences or turning barrels. Bodhi is a beautiful mover with animated gaits and a pep in his step! 

Fun facts: Bodhi can answer yes and no questions. He is very vocal when feed or treats are being passed out. Bodhi  was adopted from a rescue at nine years old; he was not yet started under saddle and was very skeptical of humans. He loves to play in the pasture with friends.   Instructors note:  "Bodhi is the ideal school horse master.  He loves to be challenged and to learn new skills.   Bodhi has been trained in jumping and dressage, but his athletic build and willing attitude help him to excel at any discipline.  Bodhi is a student favorite! " - Miss Hope

     Age: 8    Breed: Donkey

Color: Bay  Favorite Treat(s): Cookies    

Role in the lesson program:   Ricky is a fan favorite for his antics and loud braying.  Although he is not a “lesson horse”, Ricky has been known to carry kids when being led around.  He likes to roll a lot and also likes to play with a ball!  Ricky protects the herd from predators such as coyotes and helps the horses to feel safe.  Ricky and Ice are best friends and even share a stall.  They both can get stressed when they are separated for too long. 

Fun facts: Ricky does not prefer to ride on a trailer.  He will, but he does not like it. He can sometimes be observed dancing when he is bored. Ricky is also know as Ricky Ricardo, Rickster, Richard and Donk. If he does not want to go somewhere, he will drop to the ground and lay down.   Instructors note:  "Ricky is the comic relief and stress buster of the barn.  His soft muzzle and enormous ears make him a favorite for grooming and petting.  He accepts treats very gently and gives great kisses! "- 

Miss Hope