Riders taking part in the "Intro to Eventing" clinic at The Oaks Equestrian Center, home to the inaugural O’Connor Signature Facility, not only learned the basics of eventing but also had a chance to test out the world-class cross-country course designed by Olympians David and Karen O’Connor. Rhonda Gailey, Resident Equestrian Facility Manager of The Oaks Equestrian Center, taught the two-day Intro to Eventing clinic.

“We had an excellent response for the clinic. Everyone who attended learned a lot of new things and had a fun and exciting time without being overwhelmed,” said Gailey, an accomplished three-day eventer.

Participating riders and auditors started off the clinic by meeting in the luxurious member lounge at The Oaks Equestrian Center. While mounted, they worked on gymnastics and cross-country jumping.

“We will be offering the clinic at least three times a year,” said Gailey, who has trained and ridden with the O’Connors. “It was an exciting weekend, and I know the riders all certainly enjoyed our state-of-the art facility.”

The Oaks of Lake City, a residential community in Northern Florida designed to enhance the equestrian lifestyle of riders of all disciplines, was pleased to host the Intro to Eventing clinic. The community, home to The Oaks Equestrian Center and the inaugural O’Connor Signature equestrian facility, is committed to supporting the equestrian community through sponsorships and clinics.

Olympians Karen and David O’Connor, in conjunction with Equestrian Services, LLC, have designed and put their stamp on the community, whose standards reflect their commitment to an equestrian facility designed to offer residents the finest in equestrian lifestyles. Professionally managed by Equestrian Management, LLC, the facility offers a 33-stall barn, a 122’ x 225’ covered riding arena, a 60-foot covered round pen with world-class footing, 15 miles of looped trails and the O’Connor designed 11-acre cross-country jumping course.

The community and its equestrian center cater to a variety of equestrian disciplines, from jumpers and eventers to ropers and trail riders. For more information on The Oaks of Lake City, visit their website at www.theoakslakecity.com.