Our Horses

Buddy is a 13.2 hand Welsh pony. He was a jumper and child’s hunter. He is now semi-retired on the Riverwood farm. He is quick with to nuzzle and loves to be cuddled and rubbed. He is very talkative and if you are not giving him enough attention, he will let you know! At 31 he is teaching still teach children how to trot and teaching the most timid riders how to walk slowly around the arena. He is on loan to Riverwood by his owner who has had him since she was a child.

Rocky is a 16.1 hand quarter horse/thoroughbred cross. In his prime, he was used as a field hunter and a dressage horse. For the last several years, he has partnered with our riders and carried them through lessons and competitions with grace and confidence. He is the most consistent of horses and is always looking out for his rider. His jet black coat and beautiful conformation just adds to his wonderful list of attributes! He is a true gentleman.

Tony is a Belgian draft horse. His past careers included carriage driving, plowing and trail riding. Now, he is a pro at teaching riders the skills they need to ride a big guy like himself. His sweet face and feathery coat can make any person smile and want to give him a big hug. He has proven to be a wonderful mount for our program and is truly a gentle giant.

Fits is a 14.1 hand Connemara/Welsh pony cross. He was previously a successful hunter show ponyand then a lesson pony in a local able bodied riding program. He owner graciously donated him to us when Fits decided he was ready for change. His height and broad back make for a secure place for the rider with challenged balance. Fits is his gentle nature and emotional connection with our students. He is also known for kisses!

Ibby is a 15 hand palomino quarter horse gelding. He has done it all from western pleasure to hunter over fences. His size and smooth gait are perfect for so many of our challenged riders. He is teaching several students to canter and jump. He loves to ride the trails!

Snapper is a quarter horse/thoroughbred cross. He has been a lesson horse in the Winston-Salem area most of his life. In fact, he taught many of our volunteers how to ride! Snapper was trained to first level in dressage and was a good jumper in his day. He has a wonderful steady rhythm, making him a great teacher for those learning to be independent riders.

Beau is a beautiful liver chestnut quarter horse. He has run barrels, pulled a carriage and has been on many trail rides. He is famous for his smiles and kisses. His willingness and excellent manners make him a favorite of many riders and volunteers.

King is a jet black quarter horse who, according to some of the children, looks like The Black Stallion. King traveled most of the mountain trails in North Carolina and Virginia in his younger years. Although his trail days are over, he is a partner to our students who are not able to tackle the more difficult trails on the farm. He is willing to carry those who have the most physical challenges.

Pet is the only mare on the farm. She is the youngest and newest addition to the Riverwood herd. Pet came from an Amish farm in Virginia. Her job was to carry children to school, wait at the hitching post and carry them home. She has a beautiful gait and lots of personality. Pet is a bit bossy in the herd. Rocky has his hooves full keeping her in line.