Lessons
Lessons are tailored for everyone from a beginner to the intermediate rider. Training begins and progresses with the emphasis on building greater trust between the horse and rider. Safe handling techniques and habits are always a priority from groundwork, to in the saddle and anytime you are with or around horses.
A combination of holistic and natural horsemanship principles and foundations are used to develop an understanding of how and why a horse reacts and responds to stimuli the way they do (fight or flight) and reduce or mitigate any stressful situations or reactions.
We help you reach your goal for successful growth as an equestrian, building a lifetime of mutual respect, responsibility, and trust to enhance and enjoy your experience and time together.
Owners can bring their horses to the Farm for lessons or on-site lessons and training can be arranged at the owner’s own facility.
What Our Customers Say!
“My OTTB, Maverick, and I have boarded at McBriar Farm since August 2022, and I couldn’t be happier. The facilities are high quality and well-maintained year-round, the services are top-notch, and the resources (vets, bodyworkers, farrier) have been life-changing for my horse. The management is consistently expanding their knowledge and putting the horse first, allowing the boarders to grow as horse people, too. It’s so far from a boarding facility that simply tosses food at your horse twice a day; it’s a community of growth, support, and shared knowledge that is extremely refreshing to be a part of. So many people want to do right by their horses, and at McBriar, I feel very confident that I am!”
“My journey with my current horse has been deeply shaped by my relationship with my trainer, Marirose James.
My introduction to horses began with my daughter’s Quarter Horse, Cheyenne, who lived to be 34 years old. In those early days, we had no formal training—we learned from each other and absorbed wisdom from those we met along the way. Horses were new to me then, but those experiences only deepened my desire to have them in my life.
That desire eventually led me to a horse farm in Charleston, South Carolina, where I lived with my Quarter Horse and learned the traditional “cowboy trainer” ways. I eventually bought a small farm of my own and all the responsibilities that come with it. Over time, I had many horses and faced a variety of training challenges.
Then came Mary Rose James—and Fisher. Fisher arrived with trust issues and canker in all four feet. With MaryRose’s s help, we transformed him into a true partner. Her approach is both gentle and firm, and she teaches a level of connection with your horse that you may never have thought possible. If you want to do it she will make it happen.
With Marirose, it’s not all about the money—it’s about the passion. I truly believe that Fisher and I found our way to our Liberty work and the deep bond we now share solely because of her. She is honest and caring with a desire for what is best for you and your horse. She isn’t just a trainer,she is a true friend.”
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Adele
I have truly enjoyed working alongside Mari’Rose and watching her grow into such a thoughtful and effective trainer. Her training style crosses all disciplines, and her ability to build a strong foundation in each horse naturally leads to success in more specialized training.
She has a unique gift for meeting each horse exactly where they are in their education, while also identifying the holes that may be holding up progress. From there, she works with patience and clarity to help both horse and rider move forward with confidence.
What I especially appreciate is how clearly she explains what she’s doing and why. That level of communication builds understanding and creates lasting results rather than quick fixes.
I’ve seen wonderful progress in the horses she works with, including Luna, and it is a direct reflection of her consistency, dedication, and feel. She brings both knowledge and intuition to her work, which is a rare and valuable combination.
I would highly recommend Mari’Rose to anyone looking for a capable, thoughtful, and effective trainer.
Becky King
Lonesome Creek Training Center