The people at Spring Valley are very nice and welcoming. The barn provides several school horses that ease the beginner into the wonderful world of equestrian sport. The owner is a professional horsewoman who hails from a family of respected and accomplished horsemen. The staff works well with students, finding their strengths and playing off of them. From learning how to groom & tack-up a horse, mounting, walking, trotting, and cantering, you progress steadily from knowing nothing to actually riding. Before you know it, your jumping!!!!!!! If you are starting out and are serious, their lessons provide a very solid foundation in whatever genre of riding you eventually focus on. THey also offer a summer Day Camp for younger people.\r
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The facilities include a large, well-maintained outside ring with jumps and exercise obstacles for all levels of rider. There is also an indoor arena for those cold or rainy days and an observation room with a wonderful stone fireplace for those who want to watch in warmth. The indoor arena is immaculately kept, which made riding there pleasurable. The owner is a stickler for a well-maintained and organized barn.\r
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If your a professional rider, then you have found a barn of competitive winners! Although I have not yet advanced to the level of the other riders, I have seen the ribbons that they consistently bring back from Virginia, Florida, Chicago, and other top notch competitions. My suggestion for the professional would be to stop by, take a look, and make your own judgement.\r
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If your lucky enough to get a space to board your horse, this is a great place. I've seen first hand how the stalls are kept, horses are fed, and how the staff interacts with the horses. The place has two spacious barns, and several lush meadows and fields where the horses are turned-out. The popularity of the place seems to be evident with the number of horses there.\r
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They also sell quality horses that fit every level of rider.
Pros: Fit, gentle, as well as some challenging school horses. Barn immaculate. Close to Pittsburgh.
Cons: Not enough time in the day for riding!!!!!!!!!!
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