I have been riding with Hope for three years, and she is an incredible trainer! Her background as a rider is out of this world, and she also happens to be a very special person-- honest, kind, personable, generous, consistent, and hardworking. (Anyone who has spent any time in the hunter/jumper community will know that combination of 'horse skills,' 'people skills,' work ethic, and character does not come along every day.) She has made me a better, braver, tougher, more polished and more knowledgeable rider than I ever thought I would be, and I have seen so many of her students grow in a similar fashion. We work really hard, but have so much fun! This is definitely a barn with a strong sense of camaraderie.
The facility (Middleranch) is just lovely, and Pacific Cove's ring is large, beautiful, and well-kept. The stables, crossties, patio, viewing areas, and washracks are clean as a whistle. The horses are all happy, well cared for, and in a care/exercise/training program that's appropriate for them. Very nice environment, and thoughtful, responsible care and training, all the way around.
Whether you are a beginner just looking to enjoy horses and receive quality instruction, OR a more ambitious rider really looking to up your game and be competitive, I can not recommend Hope Strickland and Pacific Cove Stables highly enough. read more