I’ve read all the threads (and there are many) about VA/MD/DC area boarding options and I’d like to hear some specific experiences or opinions on the boarding facilities in Southern Maryland, particularly around Brandywine and Upper Marlboro areas (I’ll most likely be living in Alexandria, VA). PMs welcome. I grew up riding hunters and equitation through the USEF A scene, but also fox hunted for a couple years in VA and did some USEA recognized events as well, so I can fit in fine with either an eventing or hunter/jumper operation. Could do a dressage barn too, if they have or bring in a jumping trainer. I am bringing my TB gelding I’m bringing along myself to do a little of everything. I would love to find a place that’s relatively quiet, preferably with an indoor, good (grass) turnout, and places to go hacking (fields and/or trails). I’m not competition driven at this time, so I’d love to lesson about twice a month - places that require weekly lessons/contracts make me wary, but I’ll suck it up for the right trainer and facility.
I have a call into Sam Allen/Jennifer Clover and will be visiting them when I’m in town at the end of the month. My horse’s uncontrollable cribbing may prevent boarding there though.
Next option is to board next door at Cedarville and hack over to ride with Allen/Clover. I’ve been talking to Ms. Ali Shepard who is operating Classic Touch Equine out of Cedarville - seems pretty knowledgeable with small barn and laid back clientle, no issue with me training next door. As I understand it, she has managed other operations, but this is her first time out on her own. Cedarville as a facility looks decent, but Facebook photos and Google maps can only tell so much. If anyone has experiences either with that facility or with Classic Touch Equine itself, I would be very interested to hear it.
I am also trying to get info on TRW Farms, their email appears to be unavailable though. Are they still in operation? If so, are they also located at Cedarville or are they on their own property? I can’t seem to access their website and the best info I have is on this page.
I am also speaking with a private farm in Upper Marlboro for the possibility of boarding, but since I don’t think she normally boards, we’re going to get together to see if it’d be a good fit. Drawback is no indoor, but otherwise has everything I’m looking for.
I also inquired into Bay View awhile ago, but I don’t think I’ve heard back (not sure I’m a great fit there) and will probably give them a call.
Hideaway and Soft Landing are both off the list for different reasons. Any opinions on the care/training at Hunter Ridge? Any other farms worth mentioning that I have missed? I greatly appreciate anyone taking the time to offer their thoughts. Please feel free to PM me if you don’t want to reply via the thread. I will be in the area (flying in from out west) at the end of this month for a few days to look at facilities and make my decision. Thank you in advance!
