Horses
Our horses are truly some of the best instructors around. Their good nature allows you to build your confidence in and out of the saddle. Just like dogs and cats, each horse has their own personality, preferences, likes and dislikes. Read up on all the horses to get a sneak peek into their character and maybe you'll learn a little something!
Angie
I am a 1987 egyptian arabian mare and have become one of the favorites at Matsqui Stables. Most of the pony riders and first time riders have their beginning experiences with me. But don't let my size fool you....I’m a full sized horse at heart!
Cash
I am a 2004 purebred quarterhorse gelding. I've been getting a lot of attention since I got here. Everyone is making offers to buy me! I don't quite know what all the buzz is. I came from a large cattle ranch in Kamloops where they breed quarterhorses. I helped move cattle, and do basic ranch chores with my breeder. I was just one of many back home. Now I'm like a celebrity. They always tell me how flashy & well put together I am. Forget all the fuss, I just want to ride!
Dari
My registered name is Skip a Dari born April 22, 2001. Apparently I embody all the typical qualities of a good quarterhorse. I am a solid girl with a great smooth jog, no buck or bolt, love the trails, amazing to work with on the ground, and easy to get along with in a herd. I did have it hard for a couple years before coming to Matsqui as I had some owners who were clueless as to how to care for me. I'm doing my best to earn my keep here and so far they say I'm doing an amazing job.
Dawson
I am handsome! Let's just start with that. Get it out of the way as we all know that's the first thing that comes to mind. I only know this because Denise is "ga ga" over me. I was born in April of 2006 and am a 16hh registered paint gelding. I am just a baby but Denise has great plans to take me into the show arena in the next few years. Apparently I'm her newest challenge. I look forward to all the adventures!
Oliver
First off I just want to say I am one good looking guy. It's not bragging. I'm not arrogant. I just repeat what I hear. I am a 2006 thoroughbred gelding. I started my life on the track, was broke and trained for racing but never actually made it to the races. I think it's because they knew I would be a waste of talent there and to be honest I just wasn't cut out for it. I MUCH prefer to jump. I love the show ring. I have only had a few experiences at smaller schooling shows in 2010 but am very much looking forward to seeing just how far I can get. I have my eyes on Thunderbird and know that if I play my cards right and show the coaches and riders that I have what it takes I'll make it one day!
Phoenix
I am a 1998 paint gelding. When Denise bought me I was in a season of my life where I walked and jogged only, but slowly I'm getting more comfortable in the lope. If someone was to ask me what my favorite was between trails and arena work, I would have to say I like them both! Variety is the spice of life : )
Pinky
I am a 1998 paint mare. I have blue eyes, lovely markings and enjoy long walks on the beach..... sorry, I forgot what we were talking about for a second. I spent some time in northern BC as a broodmare before working with the Roberts family along with coach Aja to turn me into a show horse. I also spent time doing kids camps and took all sorts of beginners. I guess you could call me a been-there-done-that horse who is ready to do more! I am hoping to make the show team for summer 2011 as I have had a few injuries in the spring that held me back. I'm excited to be a part of the team at Matsqui!
Rico
I am a 2001 registered arabian gelding. I am the son of Deo, who has been lucky enough to spend most of her life here at Matsqui Stables. I just came on the scene summer of 2010. I have done hundreds of miles endurance racing. I loved it. I was good at it. BUT, life took a little bit of a turn when I had an accident that led to a surgery in which they took a chunk of muscle out of my behind. I've fully recovered, am in zero pain, but I have a slight hitch to my giddyup. Rather than complaining about it, I consider it my trademark. It my swagger. Don't be jealous.
Zoe
I am a 2001 thoroughbred mare. I dabbled in a few disciplines before coming to Matsqui but never fully committed myself to anything. Now I have a mission and full plan....take these girls to the hunter / jumper show ring and win! I've been spending lots of time practicing my canter leads as it seems that one of my earlier riders rode me one way....silly lady. But I'm really getting the hang of it and even landing the jumps on correct leads at times. I love to jump, I love my girls, and I love my next door stall pal Ellie.