EXPERT RIDING INSTRUCTION
Riding Lessons
From first-time riders to experienced competitors, White Winds Farm offers thoughtful, individualized instruction built on sound horsemanship, effective communication, and a strong foundation in the saddle.
Good Riding Begins with Good Horsemanship.
White Winds Farm Equestrian Center offers English riding lessons for adults of all experience levels, from first-time beginners to accomplished riders pursuing advanced goals. Instruction includes Dressage, Stadium Jumping, Cross-Country Jumping, and Eventing, with an emphasis on developing balanced, capable riders and confident, responsive horses. Dedicated young riders ages 10 and older with prior riding experience are also considered on an individual basis.
Every lesson is grounded in safety, correct fundamentals, and an understanding of how horses learn. Rather than relying on restriction or force, Shaunna teaches riders to develop effective communication through balance, feel, and thoughtful use of their aids.
Located in Raeford, North Carolina, near Carolina Horse Park, White Winds Farm serves riders throughout Fayetteville, Fort Bragg, Southern Pines, and the surrounding Sandhills. White Winds Farm is a SafeSport-certified facility.
PLEASE NOTE: WE DO NOT OFFER TRAIL RIDES OR HORSE RENTALS TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC.
BEFORE YOUR FIRST LESSON
What to Expect
Lessons at White Winds Farm are 50 minutes long. If it's your first visit, please arrive at least 10 minutes early to complete any required paperwork you haven't already submitted.
Students who are able to tack up independently should arrive at least 30 minutes before their scheduled lesson so they have time to prepare their horse and be ready to ride when their lesson begins.
School horses are assigned according to each rider's height, weight, and experience level. Please provide this information in advance so we can make an appropriate match.
Trailer-in students are welcome.
WHAT TO WEAR
Proper Attire Keeps You Safe
Appropriate riding attire is required for every lesson. Here's what you'll need to ride safely and comfortably at White Winds Farm.
RIDING HELMETS
ASTM/SEI-certified riding helmets are required for all riders. Student helmets are available for those who don't yet own one.
RIDING BOOTS
Boots must have a flat sole, a half-inch heel, and ankle support. Sandals and flip-flops are not permitted.
RIDING APPAREL
Wear long pants, preferably jeans or breeches, with your shirt tucked in. Sleeveless shirts are not permitted.
LESSON POLICIES
Scheduling, Payment, & Cancellations
Please review the following policies before scheduling your lesson. They help us maintain a consistent schedule, provide proper care for our school horses, and ensure a positive experience for every student.
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Lessons may be scheduled and paid for online here.
At least 48 hours' notice is required to cancel a lesson. Cancellations made with less notice will be charged.
One emergency cancellation is permitted every three months, without explanation. Note: this exception does not apply to Group lessons. As Group lessons are offered at a substantial discount to be paid at the beginning of the month, there is no effective cancellation policy. This means that if you do not arrive for your Group lesson, you will not be refunded or rescheduled. It is nonetheless still appropriate to notify us of your impending absence so that we know which horses we have to use for other students.
Lesson no-shows are not eligible for refunds or rescheduling.
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Monthly tuition is due on the 1st of each month, or the 15th when previously arranged with the farm. Individual lessons must be paid for when scheduled.
Debit and credit cards are accepted.
Lesson payments are nonrefundable. When the farm cancels an individual lesson because of weather or another circumstance, a make-up lesson may be scheduled before the end of that month. Unused make-up lessons are forfeited.
Please remember that lesson payments help provide feed and other care for our horses, as well as reimbursement for our time and expertise.
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Group lessons are paid for at the beginning of the month and are not eligible for individual cancellation refunds or make-up lessons.
Please notify the farm if you will miss a group lesson so the school horses can be assigned appropriately.
If every group lesson in a given month is canceled because of inclement weather, that month's payment will be applied to the following month.
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In accordance with SafeSport guidelines and for the safety and well-being of all our riders, a parent or legal guardian is required to remain on the property for the duration of any lesson involving a minor. This policy ensures transparency, supervision, and compliance with national standards for youth athlete protection.
FOR CURRENT STUDENTS
School Horse Leasing
For students looking to spend more time in the saddle, White Winds Farm offers limited leasing opportunities with select school horses. Leasing is available exclusively to current students with instructor approval and provides an opportunity to develop greater consistency and confidence in their riding. All leases are on-site only. Availability is limited, and interested students are encouraged to speak directly with Shaunna about their options.
READY TO RIDE?