Hi. I’m a decently experienced ammy h/j rider who’s been in traditional full-service programs most of my riding career. I’m looking at striking out on my own in the next year or two and I’m trying to get my ducks in a row for such a big change.
Because I know how these threads can go, I’ll start off by saying I’m a reasonably educated rider with lots and lots of humility, so “going it alone” does not mean yahoo-ing around until the horse or I get hurt. I have good connections for help/advice and I 100% know my limits. So while I get that this is a big change I do believe it’s an appropriate challenge for my skill level (as confirmed by the pros I’ve worked with).
One of the things I’m stuck on is finding the right place to board that allows jumping without a trainer. I will have access to top-level coaching at shows and plan to clinic regularly, but not often enough that I’d be able to get away with just doing flat+cavaletti/pole work at home. I don’t mind doing an occasional lesson with a resident pro but I don’t want to only be allowed to jump in lessons, if you get me. I do need full care with quality feed (or at least flexibility to bring my own), good footing, and safe turnout, which does seem to limit the options a bit.
Do any of you manage this kind of set up in the Portland area? Any suggestions for places to look? Location is less important than the right fit, but I’m on the south side of town near the river so anything super far north or way out 26 or would have to be worth the hike. I’m also used to paying full-training prices so not anticipating budget to be an issue.