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TRAINING AND LESSONS

We have a wide variety of training options here at Idylwild Farms. We can train any rider, from the "first time on a horse", newcomer, to competitors desiring intermediate training in Combined Training, Dressage, and Hunter-Jumpers.

We should make clear from the start that our goal is to provide a safe, fun, family-oriented environment. We welcome riders who wish to compete, we have many here already. But the majority of our students are riders who just want to enjoy themselves on and around horses.

We have four main trainers here, Laura McEvoy, who specializes in Dressage and Combined Training, Mary Dowdall. Mary is an independant trainer, specializing in Hunter-Jumpers, and who bases her operation here at Idylwild Farms. We have three trainers also, Emily Giammona, and Lisa Levine, who specialize in training newer riders in basic equestrian skills, and who work with our young riders.

Laura McEvoy is one of the owners of Idylwild Farms, as well as being one of the main trainers. She offers a range of training options. Each student gets the type of training that is most effective and least costly for them. (painting at right: "Horse Trainer", by Bechtejev)

The basic price for 1/2 hour lessons with Laura is $40.00. This "1/2" hour lesson usually involves an hour or more. The student, entering the barn spends approximately a half hour getting their lesson horse groomed and tacked up for the lesson. Of course we have staff to help for anyone who needs it. Then there's a half hour lesson. Then the student untacks their horse and puts it away. This may sound like work, but it's one of the most satisfying aspects of riding lessons. New students quickly come to enjoy the close time that they spend with the gentle horses. there's also a lot of fun and socializing among all the students at the barn. Adults enjoy it a lot, but it's probably most fun for the kids.

As we said, there are a lot of pricing options:

Lesson with Laura McEvoy: $40/half hour

Group lesson with the basic riding instructors: $35/half hour (best option for new students)

(Although we don't anticipate any price changes at this time, please confirm actual price with the trainer of your choice.)

We offer group lessons for both adults and kids, for those who enjoy the camaraderie of being a student. Group lessons are always a lot of fun for all involved!

We offer "training packages" for those who want to ride more than once per week, or who have training goals for themselves and/or their horses.

If you would like to receive riding lessons, you can find no better place than Idylwild Farms. To learn more about it, email Laura, or you can phone our barn at, (707) 546-4177.

Hope to see you soon!