PROFESSIONAL INSTRUCTION

FOR HORSE AND RIDER

SPECIALIZING IN HUNTER/JUMPER

Full lesson and training programs

Private & group lessons ~ all ages, all levels

Summer & winter riding camps

62 x 120 indoor arena ~ 90 x 160 outdoor arena

School horses available

Show opportunities 

TopCrest Stables began in 1999.  The farm sits on 10 secluded wooded acres.  During the spring, summer and fall riders are trained in the outdoor arena.  During the winter months and rainy weather, the riders are moved to the indoor arena for more comfort and safety.  During these times, there is a heated observation room for spectors to use.

Indoor arena

What Type of Horseback Riding?

Topcrest Stables is an English riding stable, specializing in Hunter/Jumpers.  Riders of all ages will learn how to take care of a horse and the proper way to ride english style.   

Riders will start off with the basics: learning the right diagonal, advancing  to cantering, and finally jumping if the rider desires. When ready, students may compete on the LMHJA circuit  and can advance to the "B" circuit. TopCrest is designed to meet all levels of riding and aspirations.

Angie helping her daughter, Britney, before schooling at a Cedar Lodge show

About the Trainer

I, Angie Barnes, have  been an instructor teaching English hunter/jumper riders for 14 years.  I graduated from MSU in 1993 with a degree in Horse Management.   I competed in Hunter/Jumper shows for 17 years and have also been a trainer for hundreds of riders.  

I grew up around horses and started training and breaking horses at the age of 8.  As a child, I rode pleasure and in open shows.  

At the age of 14, I began riding with Brenda Doneth at Lakeshore Equestrians in Saugatuck, MI.  I rode at this stable for seven years and excelled as an English Hunter/Jumper competitor. 

After graduating from MSU I rode with Cecila Ryker at Hadley Hills Farm in Detroit, MI  for 2 years.  From there, I rode and trained under Mike Hansen at Lou-Don Farms II in Galesburg, MI for 5 years.   I continued to compete on the LMHJA circuit for several years before opening my own farm, Topcrest Stables, in 1999.

Angie and C.C.