I'm from Kentucky and have my standards set pretty high. After having ridden at Southern Belle for the last two years, I can confidently say Ammie's barn provides what I'd call the Kentucky Experience.
First and foremost, her primary concern is the care of the horses. All are in excellent shape. They're treated very well, and are well looked after. Lately, I've been riding an OTTB who, when he came to the barn, had some pretty serious skin irritations. After nine months (or so) of treatment, he looks incredible. Not only does he look good now, his behavior and capability has radically improved. This is all because of Amy's focus on excellent horse care first.
Second, Ammie and her instructors are top notch. They know what they're doing. They spend all day with the horses and know their temperaments. This translates into helping the riders work with better with the horses, to the benefit of horse and rider. They will accommodate a rider's needs, as well as stretch them little by little in order to help them grow. I've had trouble with being a timid rider. However, Ammie and Clarissa (one of the other instructors) helped me work towards breaking the 3 foot jump barrier. That was a huge breakthrough for me, being one who is rather timid.
I admit, I can't do lessons as often as I'd like. My riding isn't consistent, so my skills aren't anywhere near what I'd like them to be. But I say this because I know for a fact that if I doubled down, I would be more than comfortable with competing and challenging myself like never before. That's part of the Kentucky Experience, and that's what I've seen at Southern Belle. read more