Southern Star Ranch - A Family Ranch with Wholesome Values

Meet Our Trainer

Hillary Rizzi is happy to announce that she is traveling back to her hometown in TN, to work with a childhood riding confidant, McKrell Baier. McKrell along with her husband, Christian, have worked with the world's top equestrian riders and their riding program is endorsed by Melanie Smith-Taylor (USA Gold Medalist), Joe Fargis (USA Gold Medalist), Albert Voorn (NED), Arno Gego, (GER). "I cannot wait to visit with my friend, who I am honored to ride with once again. I am excited to bring even more knowledge back to my students at Southern Star Ranch. Thank you McKrell and Christian and we hope to see you at Southern Star Ranch in the near future." If you'd like to visit their web site just click the following link, or cut and paste it into your web browser, http://www.southernbluesequestrian.com/index.html.

Hillary Pigford-Rizzi is Southern Star Ranch’s exclusive on site instructor and trainer for Hunter/Jumpers. Hillary has nearly 30 years of equine experience beginning at a very young age. Her equine roots originated in Tennessee, passed down from her mother who bred and showed American Saddlebreds. During her time in Tennessee, Hillary showed successfully for many years on the “A” circuit.

While away at college, Hillary continued her passion for horses and also began giving beginner riding lessons. In giving these lessons Hillary experienced a sense of joy and fulfillment that made a tremendous impression on her. It was this realization of enjoyment in teaching others to ride that led Hillary years later to leave the corporate world to pursue it with 100% dedication.

Today, Hillary has owned & ridden her beloved thoroughbred Charcoal Sketch for over 22 years. She has completely left the corporate world behind in order to follow her dream of teaching both people and animals. Hillary has a quiet spirit that works well with beginners and children, but also a driven desire for everyone to reach their own personal goals. Whether your goals are showing on the "A" circuit or trail riding, Hillary can lead you there in a consistent and goal oriented manner. She offers lessons from ages seven to adults and can teach beginner through advanced riding. In Hillary's own words, “I challenge both students and horses so they can build confidence not only in a show ring, but throughout their lives.”

Hillary also offers many different options for horse training. Because each horse or pony has different needs, please email her directly or call 904-386-0878, to discuss a specialized plan of training.

Mission Statement: Southern Star Ranch & Riding Academy's mission is to create a warm and inviting setting for all people, young and old, from all walks of life, to experience a dynamic and positive environment, conducive to learning about relationships, riding, nature, God, and oneself.