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 Welcome to the Heart and Hooves Ranch Riding Association

Here at Heart and Hooves Arena, everything we do is about connection—between horse and rider, between people, and between our hearts and the work we put into this life. Over the years, we’ve grown a strong and supportive horsemanship community through clinics, retreats, and training programs that focus on developing real, usable skills. So when we discovered Ranch Riding, we didn’t just see a new event—we saw the perfect fit for everything we already love and teach.

Why We’re Starting Our Own Association

It began with a simple thought: What if there was a space where everyone—no matter their experience level—could grow, be challenged, and feel supported? At Heart and Hooves, we believe Ranch Riding offers something for every rider. It builds confidence, showcases partnership, and gives both horse and rider a real purpose.

 

But we noticed there was a need for something more:
A place that welcomes beginners with open arms while still challenging advanced riders to refine and push their skills.

So Michelle turned to her team and said:

“Let’s create our own association—where riders at every level can learn, compete, and grow together.”

And that’s how the Heart and Hooves Ranch Riding Association was born.

With thoughtful class divisions, clear guidance, and encouraging instruction, our shows are designed to be approachable for those just getting started, yet dynamic and rewarding for more experienced riders. Everyone has a place here—and everyone has room to grow.

 

What Makes Us Different

This isn’t just another show series—it’s a community with a purpose.

We created this association with clear goals in mind:

  • 🐎 Create a supportive community for riders new to the Ranch Riding world

  • 🌱 Support growth at every level, from green horses and green riders to advanced riders 

  • 💪 Build confidence through education, with clinics available that teach the how, not just the what

  • 🏆 Celebrate progress, not perfection—with awards and recognition that reflect real effort

  • 👣 Keep it simple and accessible, so everyone feels they can show up and try

From first-time youth riders to adult amateurs coming back to the saddle, this is a place where everyone belongs.

 

How We’re Building It

We’re not just hosting shows—we’re creating a complete learning and showing experience, step by step:

  1. Clinics First
    Before any competition, we’ll offer structured clinics that walk riders through the basics—ranch patterns, judging expectations, obstacles, transitions, and show ring prep. (These clinics are not required to participant in the shows,)

  2. Beginner-Friendly Shows
    Our shows are formatted with multiple divisions to support all levels, with patterns designed to be fair, fun, and challenging in the right ways.

  3. Year-End Awards
    The top 5 point-earning horse and rider combinations will receive custom championship buckles as part of our year-end awards through the Heart and Hooves Ranch Riding Association.

  4. Community Support
    You’re not doing this alone. Volunteers, mentors, and fellow riders will be right there with you cheering you on.

 

Join the Movement

This is more than an association—it’s a movement.
One that says: “You belong here. You can do this. And we’re going to help you every step of the way.”

So if you’ve ever dreamed of showing but didn’t know where to begin…
If you’re looking for a place to grow without fear of judgment…
If you want to be part of something real and encouraging...

Then welcome home.

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Heart & Hooves Ranch Riding Association Board 

Jen Alger-President 
Tedi Jerry- Vice President
Kelli Archer- Secretary
Cindy Bender- Treasurer   

Barb Wokasch
Nada Carter 
Stephanie Lidholm
Nichole Jopke

Jessie Jill
Jackie Heinrich

Michelle Jerry   

Heart & Hooves Ranch Riding Association Registered Judges 2025 Show Season 


Stephanie Lidholm
Jackie Heinrich
Cindy Bender 
Tedi Jerry  

 

Michelle Jerry Horsemanship

Heart & Hooves Arena & Obstacle Course

hearthooveshorsemanship@yahoo.com

 

1 (218) 244-2328 Kelli Archer 

Arena Address:

Lee Road

Deer River, MN 56636

Mailing Address :

36105 State Hwy 6

Deer River, MN 56636

2024 Michelle Jerry Horsemanship Logo "Our Journey, Our Goals"

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