“The reason I’m emailing, aside from saying hi and that I hope you’re doing well, is because with my return to riding a lot of memories of Oxbow have been resurfacing. I wanted to say that I am so grateful for everything you did for me throughout my time at Oxbow. The experience was one of the most defining elements of my life. I attribute my overly zealous work ethic, my blunt/no-nonsense attitude, and my strong leadership skills entirely to the Saturday Program, 4-H, and regular lessons with you. The more experience I gain of the world, the more I realize that Oxbow was truly a unique and special place. You treated us like adults, held us to high standards, and yet allowed us to goof off and have fun. I loved everything about Oxbow and was so sad as things changed and friendships ended over time. But regardless of where we all are now – I wanted to just convey to you how appreciative I am for everything you did.
I keep trying to explain to my husband, Thomas, what my life was like on a daily basis at Oxbow. He was astonished that every week you’d create intricate speadsheets – The Schedule – for us to use throughout the day. There are so many things that, as a kid, I didn’t truly appreciate that you did to corral us all together but now I see the immense amount of work that it all took.”
Sophia Dean – former Saturday program “graduate”
“Thanks so much for having the girls and me to the dinner last night. It is always one of my favorite nights of the year. I love the team work that the Saturday program cultivates, and I love watching the girls recognize the growth they’ve made year to year. It is a one of a kind program, and I know exactly how much hard work it takes to pull it off. As always, it was a night of smiles and laughter in the midst of a very long and cold winter.
Good luck with the spring season and hope to see you at one of the shows this year. “
Marnie
“All of us from West Milford Equestrian Center were very happy with the organization, smooth running of the event and the great stall accommodations during the show. Each time any of us had a question, we were treated with respect and every question was answered thoroughly, politely and with a smile. We were even asked from time to time if there was anything we needed and were offered hay for our horses if needed and assistance when we were moving out on our way home.
The judge, Cheryl Ash, was a delight and since it was the first time I ever did a Fix A Test, I had no idea what to expect. What a treat!!! She was so engaging and her desire for each one of us to do our best and come away with something to work on to improve our horse and ourselves gives me the desire to ride for her again. I look forward to showing her my progress and how much her genuine desire to teach touched me. When ever it is offered, I will always take advantage of the Fix A Test.
Our group looks forward to your October 22 event and I am especially eyeing up your beginner cross country course. It looks like the perfect opportunity to have a bit of fun with my horses.”
Suzanne Wilt – West Milford Equestrian Center
“Over the past five to six years that I’ve been doing clinics at Oxbow, I have found the facility, management, the riding and the horses to continue to improve. There is an evolution to the standard of excellence that everyone at Oxbow is trying to achieve.”
Michael Page – Olympian hunt seat winner
