Winter Horsemanship Camp

Click here to view the printable version.

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Krystle Lee received her Bachelor's of Equine Science from William Woods University in Fulton, Missouri and has served as the owner and trainer of Suncoast Stables in Odessa, FL since its opening in 2007.  She is a member of the American  Riding Instructors Association, the American Saddle Horse Association, the United Professional Horsemans' Association, the Certified Horsemanship Association, and the United States Equestrian Federation.

Unique Guests Show Up at the Great American Teach In

 

At the Great American Teach In last Thursday (Nov. 20), the students at Tampa Bay Blvd Elementary in Tampa, FL made some new equine friends. Krystle Lee of Suncoast Stables in Odessa brought along some of her four-legged companions and discussed the types of careers available in the equine industry. She also demonstrated horse back riding, training, and care of horses.  Krystle emphasized what it takes to combine one's passion, education, and hard work to create a fulfilling career that makes you proud.

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Krystle Lee received her Bachelor's of Equine Science from William Woods University in Fulton, Missouri and has served as the owner and trainer of Suncoast Stables in Odessa, FL since its opening in 2007.  She is a member of the American  Riding Instructors Association, the American Saddle Horse Association, the United Professional Horsemans' Association, the Certified Horsemanship Association, and the United States Equestrian Federation.

Thanksgiving Horse Camp

Click here to view the printable version.

It's That Time of Year

This great year is sure going by fast! It's already time to begin holiday shopping. I've compiled a few of my favorite stores that may help you find the perfect gift for the horse lover in your life.


The online shopper should be sure to browse these websites:

The American Saddlebred Museum and Gift Shop features a variety of classy gifts, such as clothing, jewelry, and decorative items.

The American Jodphur Company offers quality clothing and accessories.

If you're looking for items for your four-legged friend, check out RaDon Inc. or The Winner's Circle.

You can also make custom American Saddlebred clothing items at CafePress.

For the art lover, ImageKind allows you to explore equine artwork from a variety of artists.

There are also some local stores worth a look. Whip N' Spur and JC Saddlery are two of my favorites.

Success at the Serenity Stables Horse Show

Suncoast Stables participated in the recent Serenity Stables Horse Show held on October 19 in Spring Hill, Florida.  It was great to compete against the other local barns and our riders had great success.

Ella McNamara, riding Akeelah, won 1st place in Lead Line Walk and Trot.

Karsyn Licciardello, riding Simbara's Bess Buy, finished 1st place in Park Pleasure and 2nd place in Country Pleasure.

Elissa Alfonso, riding Akeelah, earned 1st place in English Pleasure and 3rd place in Park Pleasure.

Devon Boyle, riding Ah Bay Alazah, and Ireland Boyle, riding Titleist Par-Tee Time, finished 1st in all blue Walk and Trot Lead Line (8 and under).

Graceanne Hoback, riding her new horse McGwire, won 2nd place in English Pleasure and 2nd place in Park Pleasure.

Madeline McNamaara, riding Titleist Par-Tee Time, earned 3rd place in both Walk and Trot (10 and under) Showmanship and Equitation.

Madison Scranton appeared in her first show. She rode Ah Bay Alazah and finished 2nd in Walk and Trot (11-13) Equitation and 3rd in Walk and Trot (11-13) Showmanship.

Hannah Murray also appeared in her first show. She rode My Dream Come True and won 3rd place in English Pleasure and 4th place in Country Pleasure.

Great job everyone!

We are looking forward to the upcoming Harvest Days Horse Show at the Florida State Fairgrounds, November 7-9.

Expand Your Horse Knowledge

Here are some websites and literature that Suncoast Stables recommends for those that are interested in learning more about horses.

Websites
HorseBooksEtc.com is a great website offering a wide selections of horse books and DVDs. Even though they do not offer books for every discipline, it is a great start.  ASBMuseum.org is a website for the American Saddlebred Museum and has a great gift shop that includes a selection of books and DVDs. Many different horse breed associations and museums will offer literature specific to the breeds and disciplines.

Magazines
The Horse Magazine is a wonderful magazine for those interested in equine health. Equus Magazine covers horse behavior, disease, lameness, management, and riding. Young Rider Magazine is perfect for our younger equine enthusiasts. There are also magazines for very specific disciplines, ages, and breeds.

Books
Equine Science, by Jean T. Griffiths, is designed to be an indispensable guide to the horse. It includes charts, photos, and references for practical advice and information. Rein In Your Brain, by Janeane Reagan, PhD, is a book for do-it yourself mental and emotional training for riders and drivers.

Horsemanship Fundamentals

At Suncoast Stables, we believe having solid horsemanship skills creates a successful horse and rider experience.  A beginner rider should focus on mastering the following three steps to build a successful foundation.

Learning Horse Behavior
A rider should be able to read a horse's body language. Noticing when a horse is upset, nervous, dominant, or curious can help keep you and the horse safe. Are your horse's ears straight back? Is he stomping his feet? These can be some signs that help identify your horse's mood.  Also take note of the environment that your horse is in. For example, if there is a screaming child next to where you are riding, it could affect your horse. By acquiring these skills, you'll stay one step ahead of the horse whether you're in the saddle or not.

Tack and Equipment
Learning how the tack and equipment goes on the horse can take a while to learn, but it is one of the most important steps in riding. Does it fit comfortably? Is the bit in the mouth correctly? Is the saddle in the correct position? How is the tightness of your girth? Your horse can become upset if the equipment isn't correct, causing a potentially unsafe situation.

Proper Riding Instruction
Your personal goals will determine the level and length of instruction you need. Even if your goal is occasional pleasure riding, you still need basic riding lessons to make your experience more enjoyable and safe.  Everyone knows someone that has a horror story of falling off a horse because they just hopped on without the realization it is a 1,000 pound animal with a mind of its own. Just a few lessons can teach you proper techniques to command and control your horse for a more pleasurable ride.

If you goal is to become a competition rider, eventually your riding lessons will teach you more skills.  This includes being a leader to your horse so you can simply communicate the things that you want the horse to do. Remember, either you or your horse will become the leader... our goal is to make the leader you!

Blog changes are trotting your way

Starting in September, Suncoast Stables will be publishing two blog posts per month. These will cover a variety of topics, including:

• Upcoming horse shows and results
• Boots, Bits, and Bridles Youth Club news
• Horsemanship
• Horse care

In other news, a new website is in development. We hope to have it running in September.

At the Summer Fun Horse Show in Ocala, Florida, we had a great showing:

• Karsyn Licciardello showing Simbara's Bess Buy - Junior Exhibitor Park Champion and Grand Champion
• Hailey Luedde showing Travel in Style - 5-Gaited Pleasure Champion and Grand Champion
• Graceanne Hoback showing Harvie Krumpet - 3rd and 4th Place Junior Exhibitor Show Pleasure
• Elissa Alfonso showing Akeelah - 3rd and 4th Place Junior Exhibitor Show Pleasure
• Tevin Licciardello showing Bobby J - 3rd Place Show Pleasure Driving
• Madeline McNamara showing Titleist Par-Tee Time - 3rd and 4th Academy Showmanship and Equitation (11-13yo), 5th and 6th Academy Showmanship and Equitation (9-10yo)

Summer camps were a success and we are now looking forward to the rest of the summer and fall horse shows. 

Summer Horsemanship Camp!

Summer Horse Camp

Join us for riding, learning horse care, games, and much much more!

Camps are from 9am-4pm, Monday through Friday

June 16-20, June 23-27, July 7-11, July 21-25, August 4-8

Cost is $300 for the week. $20 discounts for siblings, $10 off for each friend referred, multiple week discounts & more!               Contact us for details.

Space is limited so call Jenny at 813-295-3310

to reserve your spot today!

Call today to schedule a FREE introductory horseback riding lesson!

                                 

Summer Horse Camp: Frequently asked questions

What is horse camp?

Horse camp at Suncoast Stables & Riding Academy is a fun filled day with our favorite 4-legged friends.  Campers learn how to take care of the horses, have a riding lesson, play games, arts & crafts, and more!  We always ride the horses but each day at camp is new & exciting!  We even have a horse show on Fridays so campers can show their friends & family what they've learned. 

Who can come to horse camp?

Camp is offered for any level rider.  Whether it’s your first time on a horse or you've been riding for years.  Boys & girls ages 6 and up are welcome (parents of kids under 6 can contact Krystle or Jenny to discuss their child)

What should my child wear/bring to camp?

Campers should wear long pants and closed toe/hard soled shoes for riding (we have helmets available for use).  Please wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty (or painted from our arts & crafts).  Also, you should bring a cooler with lots of cold drinks (at least 7 drinks!), lunch, snacks, and sunscreen.

Can I come see the barn & meet the horses before signing up for camp?

Absolutely!  Contact Jenny at 813-295-3310 to schedule a FREE introductory riding lesson & tour of the facility.    You can also learn more by visiting us online at www.suncoaststable.com or friending Suncoast Stables on Facebook.

Suncoast Stables and Riding Academy Summer Horse Camp Registration Form Child Name ___________________         Age_________  Sex_________ Parent Name __________________________        Phone____________________ Email Address _____________________________________________ Please check next to the week(s) you would like to enroll in. Full Weeks: ($300.00 per week)       June 16-20_____       June 23-27 _____  July 7-11 _____                     July 21-25 _____                      Aug 4-8 _____ Number of weeks enrolled ($300/wk)  = $ Number of and names of campers referred _________________________________(minus $10/camper)  = - $ Number of and names of multiple campers _________________________________(minus $20/Sibling) = - $ Multiple Week Discount (minus $10/week) = - $ Early Arrival/Late Pick Up Fees ($5 for every 30 minutes) = +$ Total Remittance = $ Deposit(s) Paid ($100/wk required)  Ck# ____________________ = - $ Total Due First Day of Camp $ A non-refundable deposit of $100 per week is required upon registration; all remaining monies are due upon check-in first day of camp. Make checks payable to: Suncoast Stables and Riding Academy For further information (813)368-0666 1108 Altamont Lane         Odessa, FL 33556                       www.suncoaststable.com