Review: Chestnut Hill Farm

do you do lessons for 16year olds?

Chestnut Hill Farm / Sleepy Hollow managed now by Lauren is unsafe and the facility is poorly managed. My daughter began to take lessons and was tossed 2 out of the first 4 lessons. I decided to have her begin taking lessons at another facility because I felt this place was unsafe. I told the manager/owner that I was not going to continue taking lessons and she told me the lesson were not refundable. This was the first time I was told that. In addition, no where on the property does it state that the lessons are non-refundable. She claims that is standard and that everyone knows that. Well not everyone does because I was not aware. Also I did not stop taking my daughter there for a silly reason. My daughters safety was at stake and considering the circumstances I would think a refund is the least she could offer.
I do not recommend this barn to anyone.

Sadly, while this short term consumer did not have a good experience her argument is not valid and a sad attempt to settle a personal vendetta against Chestnut Hill Farm. I believe that this individual was willing to take Chestnut Hill Farm to court over a small amount of un-used lesson card money, of which management offered to sell to one of their many satisfied lesson students. You can thank “sue-happy” folks like this for high insurance premiums. This individual also believes she is an expert on horses, riding, and horse care when in reality she hasn’t ridden in six years. Additionally, in her “many years” of riding she has never fallen off a horse. While falling is an unpleasant experience it is also a great learning encounter all great and even average riders fall. Furthermore, it is important to note that this individuals daughter was dismounted twice while riding at Chestnut Hill Farm she did not fall she bailed and dismounted the pony willingly because she became afraid. While her dismounts were not graceful she was not dumped by any means. It is common for small children to become afraid when riding and dismount.
I personally have had nothing but positive experiences from Chestnut Hill Farm, being one of their first customers. I know from experience that many first time lesson students have had nothing but positive things to say. Particularly because Chestnut Hill Farm is one of the few places where first time students are taught how to groom and tack up their own horses before each lesson. It is also important to note that despite what this individual says all beginner lessons are taught by very experienced trainers on experienced school horses and ponies. As a matter of fact Chestnut Hill Farm is involved in a day camp and lesson program through the West Dundee park district. Would an entire park district risk the safety of hundreds of children at an unsafe facility with inexperienced trainers and wild school horses? I think not. Chestnut Hill Farm is a riding facility that you and your child must experience for its individual attention as well as high regard for safety. Do not be misled by one bully of a customer.

I was present at the time the little girl fell off one of the times and it was during a beginner camp. If the mother wanted her daughter to have specialized attention, then why did she sign her up for camp? Also, I was present at the time this woman who is complaining had her tyraid on the staff at camp. Not only was she ridiculous, but her daughter was even trying to get her to stop, telling her that she was fine and wasn't scared at all - I also learned that her little girl requested to ride the particular pony even after she fell off - kudos to her daughter!! Chestnut Hill Farm takes pride in the programs they run, and they should - not only did the staff try to calmly explain to this woman how things go in riding horses, but they even appeased her by changing the way the camp was run completely so she could be as comfortable as possible, even with an unwarranted tyraid. I agree with the first reply completely - this woman is a bully. I have had much experience dealing with some of the best trainers in the area and the pleasure to be a contender at competitions with some of the best riders in the nation...I have much experience in general with with horses and top of the line facilities, so I should know what is proper and what isn't. Chestnut Hill teaches beginners what they need to know, and falling off is part of the drill. Broken bones heal and fears are overcome, so long as they aren't perpetuated by overbearing mothers with the power of suggestion influencing the students. If this woman is prepared to take legal action everytime her child falls of and she decides to leave the barn, then every farm in the area should beware. I suggest that this customer find another sport for her and her daughter. Chestnut Hill has not only had successful camps, but that park district even is continuing lesson programs into the fall and winter!! It seems as though more and more people interested in Chestnut Hill through the park district and privately because of what they teach and the basic principles of rider safety, responsibility, and horse care. "DontBeMisled" has a perfect name, because you should not be misled by an unreasonable party with their own agenda - CHF is a perfect place for beginners to start their riding career!!

Gerriann Sweig wrote:

do you do lessons for 16year olds?

Yes, we do!