Oakwood Farm

10/17/2026

Sorry scissors, we love the barn! Even sleeping in on Saturday morning can’t keep us away😴🙌
Follow the link in our bio to request your intro lesson today!

10/17/2026

10/16/2026

Special thanks to Carly for starting Oakwood’s first IEA team this year! 💕🐴

Most horse showing is individual by design. You enter the ring alone. Your score belongs to you, and your ribbon reflects your performance. Even when riders train in the same barn and support one another, the competition itself usually comes down to one horse-and-rider combination against another.

The IEA - Interscholastic Equestrian Association turns that model on its head.

IEA riders compete individually, but their performances can also contribute to a team result. According to IEA co-founder and executive director Roxane Durant, that changes not only how the competition is scored, but also the culture surrounding it.

“The beginner rider has the same effect and points for the team as maybe the open rider does,” Durant said. That creates a version of horse showing where success is not only about your own round. You are also invested in everyone else’s.

On an IEA team, riders compete at different ability levels, from introductory flat classes through the open divisions. But the team structure makes those differences less important than they might seem.

The rider competing at the highest level may have years more experience than the beginner, but each rider can contribute meaningful points. That gives everyone a reason to pay attention to every class. Families and teammates are cheering for the entire team.

Durant compares that atmosphere with other team sports, where athletes understand that each position contributes to the result. That is relatively unusual in an industry where riders are generally accustomed to competing as individuals.

📎 Continue reading this article at https://www.theplaidhorse.com/2026/10/16/what-happens-when-riding-becomes-a-team-sport/
📸 © Andrew Ryback Photography

10/10/2026

First time at NCHJA C Finals in the books! Sophia K and Elegant were champion at shows twice earlier this year to qualify in the .80m jumpers. They had great trips both days and were 6th in the two phase, 5th in the optimum time, and 4th in their jump off round, and finished 4th in the overall weekend standings! What a great weekend to finish up their time in the .80s before moving up, we can’t wait to see this pair keep excelling together at the bigger heights!

10/08/2026

Jumping into the weekend with some fabulous horses ready for lease! Whether you’re looking to log more time in the saddle, or take your show season to the next level, our horses are ready to do it with you. Featuring Griffin, Kiki, and Poncho🐴

09/21/2026

Excellent explanation

09/12/2026

🌿 Oakwood Farm Lease Opportunities

Ready to take your riding to the next level? Whether you’re looking for a more casual riding experience or dreaming of stepping into the show ring, our lease program offers opportunities to grow alongside a quality horse and a program you can trust.

🐴 Quarter leases starting at $400/month
• Up to 2 rides per week
• Options ranging from casual leasing to competitive show mounts
• Access to quality school horses and experienced training
• A supportive program designed to help riders develop confidence, skills, and partnership

Whether you’re getting back in the saddle, looking for consistency in your riding, or ready to pursue your competitive goals, come be part of the Oakwood Farm program and explore where your riding journey can take you.

✨ Find your perfect partner. Build your confidence. Grow your horsemanship.

09/11/2026

Very insightful video!

05/11/2026

Happy Mothers Day!

05/04/2026

🐎✨ Ready to take your riding to the next level—or finally start your journey? ✨🐎

At our program, we welcome everyone from true beginners to adult amateurs, all the way to dedicated riders with specific goals and a drive to grow. 💫 This is more than just lessons—it’s a complete riding experience built on real knowledge, hands-on learning, and education both in and out of the saddle. 📚🐴

🔥 NEW: Our tuition-based program offers flexible package options and access to multiple instructors, giving you the consistency and support needed for real, measurable progress. Whether you’re riding for confidence, skill-building, or long-term goals, we tailor the experience to you. 🎯

🌟 Not sure where to start? Come try it out! We offer introductory trial lessons so you can experience our program firsthand—no pressure, just a chance to see if it’s the right fit.

🏆 While showing and clinics are never required, opportunities are available for riders who want to expand their experience and step into the next level with our lesson horses.

We are excited for you to experience the endless opportunities available at Oakwood Farm —message us today to schedule your trial and start your riding journey!

🌟 Visit our website to learn more and get on the list for a trial lesson ⬇️
https://www.oakwoodfarmsnc.com/lesson-program