Our goal is to provide a positive coaching experience to riders of all ages and abilities. We offer PRIVATE one-on-one lessons with our experienced trainers. We find this keeps it simple and allows more focus on individual rider development. We offer lessons in the Hunter/Jumper disciplines with a foundation of natural horsemanship and dressage. We have showing opportunities in local schooling shows up to the A circuit. We have a top notch, experienced coaching team for riders of all ages and levels. We also offer part and full lease options with our exceptional school horses.
Horseback riding lessons in Windsor Essex, Ontario.
At Sand Cherry, we focus on
safety
horsemanship
proper equitation
horse and rider connection
sportsmanship
and of course, fun!
to build a strong foundation.
what to expect
You can expect your child to learn in their 60 minute lesson:
✓ Horse safety.
✓ Grooming techniques.
✓ Tacking up & tacking down.
✓ Walk, rising and sitting trot beginning on a lead line and advancing with time and confidence.
Lesson time includes grooming and tacking. Actual riding time can vary from lesson to lesson but on average will be a minimum of 30 minutes of actual riding time.
recreational programs
PONY PRE-STARTER
What You need
Boots or shoes with a heel to start. We recommend tighter fitting clothing that allow for movement. Jeans or tights would be acceptable pants and shirts, sweaters, jackets or coats that are not too bulky but appropriate for the temperature of the arena. Eventually, young riders will want to invest in a pair of half chaps and paddock boots along with a certified helmet. We also have Sand Cherry Stable team wear available to order and purchase that gives young ones a sense of team.
Introduction lessons for young riders ages 5+.
Our coaches are committed to working with our littlest of up-and-coming young riders proving them with the understanding and confidence they need as they begin to explore the world of horses.
what to expect
✓ Proper equitation and riding techniques.
✓ Horsemanship and safe handling.
✓ Walk/trot/canter.
✓ Balance and control.
✓ Flatwork.
✓ Dressage movements and basic tests.
✓ Riding over poles progressing to cross rails and jumps.
✓ Showing opportunities.
Riders are expected to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the start of their lesson time to allow time to groom and tack up their horse to promptly start their lesson at their scheduled time.
BEGINNER TO INTERMEDIATE
What You need
Boots or shoes with a heel to start. We recommend tighter fitting clothing that allow for movement. Jeans or tights would be acceptable pants and shirts, sweaters, jackets or coats that are not too bulky but appropriate for the temperature of the arena. Eventually, riders will want to invest in a pair of half chaps and paddock boots along with a certified helmet. Rubber boots and a change of footwear in the car are also recommended for muddy conditions.
ALL RIDERS are required to have a current Ontario Equestrian membership.
Showing opportunities at local schooling shows are available. You can visit Windsor Essex Cadora and Strides for Stability to see a couple of the local schooling shows.
Riders can expect to learn skills and techniques in Hunter/Jumper disciplines. We believe in creating a strong foundation with an emphasis on the importance of flatwork and equitation.
ADULT
Lessons are also available for adults of various levels. Whether you want to learn how to ride or want to advance your skills, or maybe you're looking to get back in the saddle after time away, we will create a lesson plan geared toward you.
rider scholarships
We have a Sand Cherry Stables Rider Scholarship Initiative in the works to provide financial assistance to human and equine athletes.
competitive programs
SHOW TEAM
Our competitive show team offers positive experiences to riders who are interested in the challenge of competition. We have limited spots available on our show team for riders of all abilities looking to take their riding to the next level. In 2026, the Sand Cherry Stables show team will compete at local schooling shows and on the Prelude circuit, preparing for the South East Trillium circuit.
What’s included each day
✓ Horseback riding lessons
✓ Basic horsemanship skills
✓ Learning about horse care
✓ Grooming & bathing horses
✓ In depth horse safety education
✓ Learning about baby horses
✓ Fun farm activities, crafts & games
summer programs
SUMMER HORSE AND RIDING PROGRAMS
We offer Horse Riding Programs throughout the summer break. Kids will have the opportunity to have hands-on learning experiences with horses, ponies, and foals. This is ideal for kids who want to try out horses as a hobby and beginners wanting a strong foundation.
CLINICS
Sand Cherry Stables hosts regular clinics offered to students who wish to improve and advance their Hunter/Jumper skills with experienced clinicians from other areas. Please turn yourself and your horse out well. Proper riding boots and equipment is required.
announcements for 2026 clinics coming soon.
Resident coach, Heather Roung, began her riding career at the young age of 6 and has since studied under Grand Prix and “A” circuit professionals, becoming knowledgeable in equine training, care, feeding, grooming, and reproduction. Heather has gone on to create a successful breeding and training program that has produced many fabulous mounts that have won national titles.
Heather understands the discipline, dedication and safety awareness necessary to succeed and enjoy horsemanship to whatever level the rider aspires.
meet our head coach
Heather ROUNG
ALL RIDERS are required to have a current Ontario Equestrian membership.
Beginner level and above riders are expected to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the start of their lesson time to allow time to groom and tack up their horse to promptly start their lesson at their scheduled time.
24hr cancellation notice is required or lesson will be charged in full. We understand there will be the occasional time when this is not possible due to an unforeseen circumstance (emergency or illness), simply contact your coach in a TIMELY manner to reschedule your lesson. Most coaches do not live on site and schedule their time with your time.
POLICIES
I boarded my horse at Sand Cherry Stables the last few years of his life. I believe the excellent care and attention to his health he received here is a huge reason he made it through his last winter. Heather and her family went above and beyond for us and I am forever grateful. Horses are treated as individuals here, and regardless of their place on the farm they are looked after as though they are her own. After stepping back from horses for a couple years I am now getting back in the saddle and didn't hesitate for a moment to contact Sand Cherry Stables when the time came!
" Heather and her family went above and beyond for us. "
emily
Heather is amazing. She's a seasoned veteran of competition riding and one heck of a teacher. She saved me from making a terrible purchase of a horse that could have been the end of me. It wasn't easy and involved several phone calls. She went way above what most people would have. I'm lucky. Today I have leased the most amazing boy, 'Boomer'. Heather continues to school me and I'm happy. If you are looking for an amazing teacher with extraordinary skills, she's the one.
" If you're looking for an amazing teacher, she's the one. "
Teresa
My daughter has been riding at Heather's facility since the summer. Heather creates a space that is not just about learning how to ride, she helps your children grow as individuals and gives them confidence and the tools they need to be successful both inside and outside the arena. She is super knowledgeable and all of her horses are very well cared for with extreme attention to their wellbeing as well as the riders. Going to Heather's barn has been the best decision we ever made for our daughter.
