You can smell the fresh green grass and hay in the air as the morning dew shimmers across the field. This is horse country in summertime, where many may flock to birthday parties, summer camps and even serious competitions. In fact, those birthday parties may even ignite a passion for Equestrian Sports and a life-long fervor for an ancient pastime that is enjoyed by so many.
Just ask Averie Rykman, a seasoned, award-winning, hunter jumper athlete from East Cobb, whose dedication to the sport has earned her many accolades in her nine years of riding. On her cherished horse Burlesque, she has acquired an impressive wall of honors and they continue to accumulate. Averie’s passion for the sport began at a riding ring when she was five and culminated in her riding in the rated circuit, competing at equestrian facilities all over.
From large scale equestrian centers to smaller stables, Averie has been able to sample what riders might experience during competition season. One of her favorites needs no introduction and is nestled in “The Horse Capital of the World”, in Ocala Florida.
The World Equestrian Center was named one of Time Magazine’s 2024 World’s Greatest Places, and supremely lives up to this title. With twenty-three outdoor arenas, six climate-controlled indoor arenas, and over 2,800 permanent stalls, this state of the art, world-class, luxury facility aims to appeal to more than just horse-loving patrons. The masterpiece of the resort, The Equestrian Hotel, anchors its lavish suite of amenities like The Riding Academy Hotel, Calluna Spa, seven dining concepts, flexible meeting spaces and over thirty retailers and seasonal vendors. Pools, splash pads, fitness centers and golf cart rentals round out recreational offerings. “There is so much you can do there. It’s a place for anything and such a nice facility. It’s amazing”, exclaims Averie.
Equestrian sports and horsemanship’s popularity have also resulted in some excellent, smaller stables that offer expert trainers, giving young and older riders alike the foundation they need to succeed. JLB Stables (Jennifer L. Buck Stables) a well-respected, boutique, full-service barn in Cobb County, welcomes riders of all ages to participate in this time-honored sport. JLB Stables prides itself on training riders in hunter jumper, equitation and dressage shows. “We have a fantastic group of children, teens, twenty-somethings and adults that have various goals, from aspirations of competing to just wanting to have a great time,” says Ms. Buck.
In the broader Southeast, you will find that Brownland Farm in Franklin, Tennessee also aims to share their piece of paradise with the community. With 200 acres that contain four schooling rings, as well as, four show rings, Brownland Farm is the home of some of the most decorated equestrians in the world as well as those that just want to be in the horse environment. This gives just the right experience for every rider, no matter what their goals are.
Averie agrees that smaller stables lay a great foundation for anyone interested in the sport. “Competing can be very expensive and time consuming, so it is important to lay the groundwork at a smaller stable. Through the guidance of a smaller stable you will learn about yourself and what it takes to compete at the highest level before you move on to a bigger barn with bigger and more expensive horses,” Averie shares.
Whether riding in a world-class facility in a high stakes competition or simply enjoying a trot on a family-owned farm, the world of equestrian sports has a vast array of offerings. For those that are ready to embark in a journey that enriches lives and fosters growth, the horses are ready to meet you where you are in that shimmery, green field.
"...Through the guidance of a smaller stable you will learn about yourself and what it takes to compete at the highest level..." - Averie Rykman.
The world of Equestrian Sports is vast, exciting and competitive. Here, we spotlight the places and spaces where top athletes have the opportunity to train, grow and compete.