Come Experience How Fun Learning Can Be

Julia Collins, Trainer

Julia grew up riding and showing the circuit under the training of Katie McCashin at Tanglewood Horse Center in Clemmons, NC and then later with her in Culpepper Virginia at Mulberry Hill Farm.  In addition to owning and competing her personal ponies and horses she was a catch rider for the program including greenies, ponies and regular working hunters.  

Julia's fondest memories are not of championships but of summers on the circuit sleeping in truck cabs and trailer goosenecks for months on end.  Diverse experiences throughout her equine career, including starting ponies/horses, showing them through the ranks, grooming circuit horses, teaching students, organizing summer camps, participating in breeding programs and equine seminars have shaped a well rounded horseman with a true love for the discipline.  

Julia's aspirations are to pass along similar great experiences to her students, however now cramming into hotel rooms, whether showing single day competitions or multi-day shows.  She hopes to create lasting memories as well as lifetime accomplishments including having students regularly qualify for medal finals and year end championships.

Beginners & Children

We start kids as young as 5 years old but exceptions are made from time to time depending on maturity levels.  From the first visit to our farm, your child will learn horsemanship skills while they begin their riding experience.  Initially, beginners will be required to be in private lessons but as they progress and gain more skills and confidence, they can be offered semi-private lesson options.

Students who choose to take one lesson a week are encouraged to take a 1-hour lesson.  Bi-weekly lessons are offered in 30-minute or hourly sessions.

Meet the Resident Horses & Ponies that teach our beginners.

Juniors

Whether you are a beginner, an advanced Junior or somewhere in between, we offer an individualized program for you.  Over The River Farm happily trains juniors to help them attain their riding goals.

Lesson horses are available on a limited basis.  Students who chose to take one lesson a week will be required to take a 1-hour lesson.  Bi-weekly lessons are offered in 30-minute or hourly sessions.

Adults & Families

We have several options for adults pursuing their riding journey. Over the River Farm specializes in teaching adults of all riding levels, whether re-connecting to riding or continuing their path to further their horsemanship skills.  Our training program emphasizes technical bodywork which is great for preparation to head off in any equine discipline of your choosing.