About
I have close to 40 years horse experience. I have raised, trained and shown my own horses in all around events. I teach both western and english and have a background in halter, showmanship, horsemanship, trail, western pleasure, speed, hunter under saddle, jumping, etc. I believe in building a strong base of riding on my students before specializing. My students are of all ages.
I really enjoy teaching. Horses have been a big part of my life and I like sharing that knowledge with others. I like seeing my students get so excited when they get the response from the horse they are asking for. I love watching them learn and progress.
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Sarah F.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Going over safety and basics on the ground first. The first lesson is usually walking and working on steering, stopping, etc. If it is a more experienced student, it will depend on what level they are at.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been riding for 40 years. I have owned multiple horses. I have raised and trained both of my quarter horses that I bred. I showed on the Buckskin circuit in both Illinois and Missouri and won points and ROM's in many different all around events(halter, showmanship, horsemanship, trail, western pleasure, english equitation, barrel racing, pole bending). Plus, I have worked on reining, team penning, western dressage, jumping and working equitation. In the past, I have drove Chicago Carriage Horses, worked mounted security at O'Hare, worked with racehorses and warmbloods, taught summer camp, taught park district and taught lessons over many years. Plus, I have taken the train the trainers clinic for Western Dressage.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My prices are posted by the barn I work for:
$45.00 - 1/2 hour private
$67.50 - 45 min private
$90.00 - hour private
$45.00 - 45 min semi-private (2 riders)
$45.00 - group (3 riders or more)
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching when I was hired to run a small summer camp in the early 90's.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have taught different levels of students including: beginner children, adults, grandmothers who have never been on a horse, students who have a good base of knowledge, but want to learn how to get better at groundwork or ride a specific discipline so they can go to shows. I have brought students to show at 4H or the local Open horse shows. Plus, horse owners who just want to work with their horses on different skills.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Do your research and make sure the instructor has practical experience in the discipline you are wanting to learn. Watch them teach and make sure you agree with their style of teaching and how the animals are treated.