As I write this, I'm approaching two years with Lisa at Burgeon Sport Horses -- and even now, it's…read morehard to put into words what this experience has meant to me. Burgeon didn't just bring me back to riding. It brought me back to myself.
When I first came to Burgeon, I had been out of the saddle for five years. I came in with no guarantees -- just a deep love for horses, a willingness to work hard, and a quiet hope that maybe I could rebuild something I thought I had lost. What I found here was so much more: a trainer who believes in her riders, a program rooted in integrity, and a place that truly changes people from the inside out.
Lisa is more than just a talented trainer -- she's a mentor who meets each rider where they are and helps them rise. Whether you're a complete beginner just finding your seat, or an advanced rider refining your skills, she sees the potential in every student. She doesn't just teach lessons -- she teaches you how to think, how to listen, how to partner with your horse. She builds confidence with patience, celebrates every step forward, and always holds space for growth.
The program at Burgeon is built with care, depth, and real horsemanship at its core. The horses are happy, well-conditioned, and respected. Lisa pours herself into every ride, every student, every decision -- and you feel it the second you step into the arena. It's about the work -- the quiet, powerful kind that builds a rider not just physically, but mentally and emotionally, too.
For me, this journey has been transformational. I've gone from being unsure and full of self-doubt to finding a deep confidence that's changed my life far beyond the barn. I've grown stronger -- not just as a rider, but as a person. I've learned how to trust myself again. How to be patient with progress. How to take up space. I've found community, purpose, and a sense of belonging I didn't know I was missing.
Every lesson, every ride, every hard day and breakthrough moment -- it's all shaped me. And I wouldn't trade it for anything.
Burgeon Sport Horses is the kind of place that stays with you. It's for people who are ready to work hard, grow with intention, and build something real. I feel so incredibly lucky to be a part of it. Lisa has changed my riding, and she's changed me -- and this is still just the beginning.
-- Maddie S.
