Desert Sun Training

12/06/2025

Mr Gatsby is progressing so nicely! First time over trot poles yesterday, and he did them like a champ. I’m so impressed with this horses willingness and mindset!

11/28/2025

Happy Thanksgiving, I hope everyone had a wonderful day. I am grateful for all my Desert Sun barn family, thank you all!!

11/24/2025

Well we had a very successful weekend at SAzEA fall horse trials despite the rain that caused the weekend to be shortened and cross country cancelled today because it was too wet/muddy (we barely could walk out there this morning on our feet)! However, it turned into a combined training event instead, and placing went off of yesterday’s dressage and stadium scores. All 11 (!) horses ribboned and I’ll list them below, disappointed to have missed the XC runs as the course was changed and looked great! Looking forward to our next event in California at Galways spring horse trials in January.

Shannon on Fawkes - 1st Open Training
Shannon on Bounce - 3rd Open Training
Sarah on Tesoro - 3rd Beginner Novice Championships
Rylee on Royce - 7th Beginner Novice Rider
Casi on Ari - 1st Open Beginner Novice
Dri on Maple - 2nd Starter Rider
Aaron on Nova - 6th Starter Rider
Stephanie on Lexi - 4th (tied in score for 2nd) Starter Championship
James on Peewee - 1st Open Starter
Casi on Borgo - 8th Starter Championships
Casi on Baila - 1st Starter Rider

Proud of all the horses and riders showing up and getting it done!

11/15/2025

Well Winx is now started under saddle! First ride is in the books!

11/14/2025

Well it happened! Stephanie got on Gatsby today for the first time!! Just a nice gentle walk but it’s a big step!

11/13/2025

Winx for a saddle for the first time today! Cant wait to get on her soon!

11/11/2025

Gatsby left lead canter.

11/11/2025

Right lead canter

11/11/2025

Gatsby Trot figure 8s… ride 7, second time off the line!

11/03/2025

Another new arrival! Welcome “Winx” (soon to be renamed) a 3 year old Belgian WB mare that’s yet to be started under saddle but we hope to make her an eventer! Congrats Stacey on another fun project!!

10/25/2025

Well he’s started!! Gatsby had his first ride ever today and he handled it like he’s done it all before! I can’t believe how fortunate Stephanie has been with this beautiful, sweet and easy going 3 year old!

10/24/2025