Simonie is a Fredericksburg native. She began her riding career at Hazelwild Farms at the age of five. She rode and competed locally and at the “A” circuit for several years before widening her knowledge of the horse industry by learning and competing in the western pleasure and barrel racing divisions in the Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia areas. In high-school she returned to her hunt-seat and equitation roots as a working student for Carol M. Hawley. There she learned the fundamentals of running a top-notch training/boarding/lesson facility and again showed locally and at the “A” circuit. Simonie is a graduate of the University of Mary Washington where she rode and competed on the equestrian team.
Simonie has experience and success backing and putting the fundamentals on young horses as well as maintaining horses for pleasure and competition. She has worked with clients in the buying, selling and leasing of horses. Her goal is to assist clients in finding the best equine match or find the best home for a client selling or leasing a horse. She understands the emotional attachment we all have to our equine counter-parts and wants to see the best outcome for all parties involved in a sale or lease.
She has taught riders of all ages on the fundamentals of strength, balance and communication between horse and rider. Additionally, her methods of teaching include the philosophy of “Form follows Function” meaning correct riding form is the foundation for improving your horse and achieving your riding goals! Her lessons include teaching riders about safety while riding and working on the ground. She also tailors her lessons to include knowledge about horse maintenance and tack care. She is currently accepting new students.
Lesson Prices
1 hour private $45 (lesson packages available)
1/2 hour private $35 (lesson packages available)
1 hour group $35
Training Rides: Prices vary depending on the situation.
Simonie showing "What About Bob" at Lexington National Horse Show
Simonie with one of her students, Kim riding "Maggie".
The mission of Magnolia Equestrian Center is to promote, and encourage riders of all ages to learn and improve in the sport.
