The Linden Hall Equestrian Program

As a part of a diverse athletic program offered to students at Linden Hall, the Riding Program is dedicated to providing safe, quality instruction for both horse and rider that establishes a strong foundation in riding and horsemanship. The Riding Program meets the needs of riders of all levels, from the beginner or recreational rider to the advanced competitor. Over 30% of our students participate each year in this excellent program and ride a minimum of two days a week and up to as many as six days a week. The focus of instruction is Hunter/Jumper and Equitation based.  Additionally, a Western program includes Reining and Western Pleasure classes.  Opportunities for competition are provided through local shows, the Interscholastic Equestrian Association, the Mid-Atlantic League and various United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) rated horse shows. Linden Hall supports its very own Varsity and Junior Varsity Equestrian teams and regularly places in IEA Zone II and national competitions.

Jennifer Merris-Dolk '94, Director of Riding, has over fifteen years of professional experience training and riding in the local area as well as on the “A” circuit. Jennifer has qualified students for the Pony Finals, Zone Finals, CCHSA Medal Finals, Devon, IEA Zone Finals and Nationals.

The 20-stall, center aisle stable, with a heated and air conditioned tack room and riding facilities are located in the heart of our beautiful 47-acre campus. A brightly lit outdoor arena with all-weather footing is perfect for riding even after dark. A beautiful 80’ X 200’ indoor riding ring with a viewing deck, a temperature controlled viewing lounge, all new rubber footing, and a state-of-the-art sprinkler system offers the perfect riding experience. There are several paddocks and fields with brand new fencing for turnout as well as various cross-country fences around the stable area. The Riding Program has many school-owned horses suitable for all different levels of riding, and several stalls are reserved for student-owned horses. The riding program continues in the summer with overnight camps, this year offered June 20-26 and July 11-17.   
 



For more information, please contact Riding Director Jennifer Merris-Dolk
 at 717-626-0089.