trainers/staff at
COUNTRY RIDGE STABLES
Country Ridge Stables is a full service Hunter/Jumper training and showing facility. We attend “A” and “AA” rated horse shows nationally and throughout the Midwest. Working together with highly respected trainers, we can help you build the confidence needed to excel.
Ashley Hill, Head Trainer – Forest Hill Farm

MY BACKGROUND:
Forest Hill Farm was started in 1994, when I was 22 years of age. At the age of (3), I rode my first horse and started taking lessons. At age (5), I started competitive showing in some of the top ranked horse shows in and around the United States. At age (7), I qualified for the national finals at Harrisburg and Washington. At age (11), I became one of the youngest qualifiers at the Maclay Finals, which was held at the Madison Square Garden, in NY, NY. In 1990, I turned professional and started working for top hunter/jumper trainers throughout the Midwest. In 1994 is when Forest Hill Farm was created. I rode, trained and managed my clients who competed in the Top A horse shows around the country.
TEACHING AND RIDING PHILOSOPHY:
My teaching and riding philosophy stems from the knowledge and experiences I’ve gained throughout the years of being in the Equine industry.
I believe that good riding starts with flatwork. “Jumping is simply obstacles in the way of your flatwork”. Flatwork is essential and the base for riding. I also believe that you should never push a horse beyond its limits. I also know, understand and realize that people learn through different ways or methods. Those being: Verbal, Visual and Kinesthetic. My job as a trainer is to recognize how each student learns the “best” and then effectively communicate the task at hand. In all instances, the most important element in learning is a “safe” and “positive approach.”
If a student can give me the commitment, dedication, trust and the time that is needed to improve, I’m confident in my abilities as a rider and trainer to achieve the students goals and as a result help the student reach his/her full potential. I also believe that my responsibility as a trainer is to also help educate the student in the areas of basic horse management and care of his/her horses needs. (i.e. health, food, proper shoes and basic veterinarian care.)
Fernando Mendoza, Barn Manager – Country Ridge Stables

Fernando

 

Fernando has been the barn manager for Country Ridge Stables since its inception in 2006.  He oversees every aspect of horse care including vet visits, turnout, exercise, supplies and management of other barn employees. Fernando works closely with our trainers to ensure each horse is given the individual care needed.  He is also an irreplaceable asset to the barn, overseeing and communicating with facility management when repairs and supplies are needed to keep our facility and equipment running properly. He truly helps to make Country Ridge run smoothly, and we appreciate his hard work everyday!

Originally from Guadalajara, Mexico, Fernando has more than 30 years of experience as a barn manager/head show groom for the top hunter/jumper stables in Illinois. In addition to his expert knowledge of horses, Fernando has great attention to detail, a high level of organization, and a winning attitude. Fernando lives on the property with his family.  He is a comfort to all the Country Ridge family, having someone with his great knowledge of horse care overseeing our horses during and after hours.  He may seem relaxed and easy going, but that is because he has everything under complete control. Fernando takes his job very seriously. He takes great pride in the care he gives each horse and in our facility as well. Whether he is checking on the horses at night or caring for horses at the shows, you won’t find anyone more thorough and professional than Fernando.

 

COUNTRY RIDGE STABLES
Phone: 847-837-9322    info@countryridgestables.com
27060 N Owens Rd, Mundelein, IL 60060