Testimonials

Claire

Leases Ava

My name is Claire and I lease the lovely mare, Ava. I feel so at home at ARA! I have been to many barns with multiple disciplines, and I have never been to a barn that felt so much like a family without any of the drama that accompanies equestrian lifestyle. The owner and my coach, Crystal Ann Little is the definition of a hype gal while also making me be held accountable and ride properly. I'm currently on maternity leave but am just counting down the days till I can back on the saddle again! The properties are so beautiful, and the horses get excellent care. When I'm not at work, I am a mother to two beautiful children and work full-time as a nurse.

Lacie

Boards Lyra, ARA Instructor

Hi, I'm Lacie and I board my horse Lyra here at ARA! Lyra and I have been together at ARA since she was 4 months old. We did all her training at the farm with help from instructors! I also have been an instructor here for a year and soon will be producing two new programs...stay tuned. Atkinson Riding Academy pushed me to reach my goals with Lyra and now we are truly making my dreams come true as I build my own program here!

Jen

Owns Edward, Mom to Mae, the rider

Balancing life as a CFP professional, wife, and mom-life is hectic, but Atkinson Riding Academy is our ultimate happy place. From leasing to finally owning my horse Edward, to watching my daughter grow in her own lessons, this barn has given my family so much. The trainers, boarders, and community make ARA truly one of a kind. So grateful for the endless support and smiles from our riding family!

Mai

Owns Paisley

Hi! My name is Mai. I own Paisley. I've owned Pais for 5 years and we have been at Atkinson for about 2 years. Outside of the barn, I work as an ER Nurse. During the 2 years we've been here, Crystal has helped turn Pais into the horse she is and has helped us navigate through every detour. While we recovered from Pais' kissing spine surgery last fall, Atkinson truly stepped up and has watched us blossom since. I am so grateful to be a part of this family and am so excited to see what the future holds for us.

Nikki – Finest

Leases Finest

Hi my name is Nikki! I lease a mare named Finest! My favorite part of ARA is that we are one big "Farmily"! ARA is truly my happy place and I couldn't imagine my life without ARA! Outside of riding you will find me attending Essex Agriculture and Technical School. Atkinson Riding Academy is truly the best and I'm excited to see what the future brings for me and Finest!

Dawn

Owner & Leasee, 17 Years at ARA

Hi! I'm Dawn, I've been with ARA for 17 yrs now! I've been teaching riding for decades now & have been both an owner & leasee at ARA! My favorite part of the farm is my ARA "Farmily"! I've been able to share my riding & traveling to shows with my daughter & best friends which is such a blessing!

Silas – Shiela

Rides Shiela

Hello my name is Silas Little. My Horse's name is Shiela. Shiela is a 32-year-old Morgan quarter horse. Many people love Shiela but I love her the most. When I am not horseback riding I love to play with my cousins. This year I am going into second grade. I love Atkinson Riding Academy because my mom is the owner and because Shiela is here.

Mathieu

USEF Grade 5 Para-Rider, Leasee

Hi, I'm Mathieu! I'm a USEF Grade 5 para-rider with Paralympic aspirations! I've been a leasee at ARA for over six years, and during that time, this community has truly become a second family to me. One of my favorite things about ARA is being surrounded by such goal-oriented people. Everyone's goals may look different, but no matter what you're working toward, you can rest assured that you have the ARA family in your corner, cheering you on every step of the way!