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Riding

Where learning moves out of the classroom and into the barn

An integral part of the Oldfields experience since 1867, the Oldfields Riding Program is dedicated to inspiring our riders to pursue a path of continued growth. Our goals are to develop and enhance a yearning for knowledge, to value the character of the horse and the integrity of the sport, to honor the path of the individual, and to savor the process of learning and the lessons discovered from our relationships with horses.

Click here to learn about our Equine Science Concentration

 

Why Oldfields?

At Oldfields, there is no "typical lesson." Our lessons are tailored to the needs and goals of each individual. Some days, our riders might drill gymnastics or practice a dressage test. Others, they will experience the thrill of galloping in an open field or introducing their horse to working equitation obstacles.

Our accomplished and knowledgeable trainers create an exceptional and well-rounded curriculum. Above all else, we value horsemanship and our equine partners. Our barn is an inclusive place that strives to create a safe, inviting, and supportive environment in which all riders can grow.

"The barn crew not only helped me become the rider I want to be, but taught me so much more. It is through my time in the saddle that they taught me to stop, take a step back, and think about situations that frustrate me. Even if I feel like I hit a wall, I just need to be patient with myself, and try a different approach until I am able to overcome the obstacle that has stumped me. They have taught me to laugh at my own mistakes, and not take them too seriously."

Sophia, Oldfields Class of 2022

“The Riding Program is extraordinary with so many choices of disciplines combined with the opportunity to learn from elite guest instructors. Best of all, my daughter was encouraged to grow as a rider at her own pace and participate in ways that were comfortable for her. The knowledge, confidence, and joy she gained from this experience was invaluable!”

Katherine Burdsall Heller, Parent, World Cup Finals Winner

"Oldfields Riding program led by wise and compassionate instructors guided my granddaughter from an insecure adolescent to a confident young woman.  Riding empowered her to develop mentally, physically, and emotionally.  She reached many of her riding goals including earning a top placing at the Zone 3 Jumper Finals."

Faye Richardson, GP '22

Equestrian Facilities

Welcoming Courtyard Style Barn

With 25 stalls, a newly built tack room, meeting space, and a spectacular view; the barn is a second home for many of our riders. Non-riding students enjoy visiting to relax among friends and animals.

Brand New Shedrow Barn

The newly built Anna Austen McCulloch barn features six additional oversized, airy stalls for our horses as well as an adjoining hay barn with ample storage space.

State-of-the-art Indoor Arena

Perched on top of Riding Hill, our 110' x 200' indoor arena with Eurofelt Prime Footing is loved by riders and horses. When not in use by our own riders, we are delighted to rent it to the wider equestrian community.

Lower Riding Ring

Our 95' x 200' lower ring, the Lana DuPont ’57 Riding Arena with GGT footing, is a multi-use arena that can accommodate a regulation large dressage arena, hunter/jumper courses, clinics, competitions, and lessons.

Upper Riding Ring

Our upper ring is a spacious 150' x 250' arena perfect for jumper courses. It features flexible fence lines to jump in and out of the ring onto Riding Hill.

Riding Hill

Our beloved Riding Hill is home to our modified cross country course, open fields for hacking, and access to an adjacent 300+ acre property. It also features some of the best views of campus.

 

Photo credit: Maryland Equine Imagery

Surrounding Horse Country

In addition to the facilities on our 130-acre campus, our ideal location nestled in Maryland's horse country provides our riders with countless opportunities to trail ride, school cross country courses, foxhunt with neighboring clubs, and so much more.

Meet some of our Horses

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