Blog

June 15, 2026 In this episode of The Plaidcast, Amy Center joins the conversation around two important pathways for developing riders within the U.S. Hunter Jumper Association: the Emerging Athletes Program and the Zone Jumper Championships. Both programs reflect an idea that is central to the horse world and to the work we value at […]

As summer begins to shift toward fall, the barn offers a natural moment to reflect on progress, strengthen foundations and carry new confidence into the next season. Find Your Late-Summer Riding Focus There is something unique about the final stretch of summer. The days are still long, the barn is still filled with familiar summer […]

Longer days bring a different rhythm to the barn—and new opportunities for horses and riders to strengthen their partnerships. Discover Your Summer Riding Energy Summer in Tallahassee arrives with bright mornings, lingering evenings and a pace all its own. Around the barn, the season creates space for riders to reconnect with their goals, appreciate the […]

This year marks America’s 250th anniversary, providing an opportunity to reflect not only on our nation’s history but also on the remarkable partnership between horses and people that has helped shape it. Long before modern highways and automobiles, horses connected communities, supported agriculture, carried families westward, and became trusted partners in nearly every aspect of […]

As June settles into North Florida, horse owners and riders begin adjusting to one of the most important seasonal changes of the year: summer heat. While longer days create more opportunities to ride, train, and spend time at the barn, warmer temperatures also require thoughtful planning to keep horses healthy, comfortable, and performing at their […]

As spring settles into Tallahassee, there’s a noticeable shift in energy across the barns, arenas, and showgrounds. At Cavallo Farms, this time of year brings a renewed focus on connection—between horse and rider, between training and performance, and between preparation and opportunity. Across the equestrian world, spring marks the unofficial start of peak show season. […]

Welcome the New Season at Cavallo Farms As spring arrives in Florida, it brings longer days, renewed energy, and the perfect opportunity to refocus your riding goals. At Cavallo Farms, this is one of the most important times of year for both horse and rider. Whether you’re returning to the saddle after winter or preparing […]

February is a quiet but powerful month in the equestrian calendar. The show season is on the horizon, the weather invites reflection, and riders have a rare opportunity to slow down and focus on the foundation that truly matters—the partnership between horse and rider. At Cavallo Farms, we believe that meaningful progress isn’t always loud […]

An introspective look at riders, mental health, and the current pulse of the equestrian world Why Do We Choose the Saddle? There’s a version of us that only exists when we’re with a horse. Maybe it’s quieter. Maybe it’s braver. Maybe it finally exhales. Riders don’t just ride. We regulate, reset, grieve, heal, celebrate, and […]

If you’ve ever driven down Cavallo Trail and seen horses grazing in the golden morning light, you already know Cavallo Farms is something special. Nestled just outside Tallahassee in Monticello, FL, our equestrian community isn’t just for seasoned riders — it’s a place where riders of all ages and levels grow, learn, and create lifelong […]

1. Embracing the Season Change: Why Fall Matters As Florida settles into cooler mornings and golden sunsets, Cavallo Farms embraces this perfect season of preparation. Fall isn’t just a transition—it’s a time to refine, reset, and ready both rider and horse for upcoming competitions. Located in Monticello, FL—just outside Tallahassee—Cavallo Farms offers top-tier hunter/jumper and […]

As the Tallahassee sun dips low, painting our Florida pastures with warm amber hues, we’re celebrating the heartbeat of equestrian life: the unspoken bond between rider and horse, forged through trust and teamwork. At Cavallo Farms, nestled in the oak-lined trails of North Florida, our riders and their equine partners live for these moments—whether it’s […]

As we embrace the crisp September air of 2025, the equestrian season shifts into high gear. At Cavallo Farms, our premier equestrian training facility, we prioritize the harmony between horse and rider. Fall brings unique opportunities to optimize health and performance, but it also demands attention to seasonal challenges. This article shares essential tips for […]

Beat the heat, polish those boots, and make barn memories. Riders, horses, and parents—dive into tips, checklists, and a quick poll below. 🎽 Rider Tips Ride early/late; stash a damp cooling towel in your tote. Three-cue challenge on transitions/circles or a grid—quiet and clear. Set a micro-goal before mounting; reflect after your ride. 🐴 Horse […]

As the days stretch long and summer warmth envelops Cavallo Farm, it’s the perfect time to embrace outdoor riding sessions, goal‑setting, and seasonal self-care. Whether you’re hacking through shaded trails or mastering the dressage arena, here’s why summer riding at Cavallo is a win-win—and what’s happening around the globe to inspire your next canter! 🐴 […]

The Cavallo Farm Equestrian Team had an incredible weekend competing at the World Equestrian Center (WEC) in Ocala on June 9th, with several riders achieving top honors and memorable rounds across multiple divisions. The team’s hard work, dedication, and horsemanship were on full display, and we couldn’t be prouder of their results! 🌟 Rider Highlights […]

Spring has officially sprung at Cavallo Farms, and you can feel the buzz in the barns! As the flowers bloom and the days stretch longer, it’s the perfect time to polish your boots, fluff those saddle pads, and bring your best trot into the ring. Whether you’re a seasoned showstopper or just trotting into the […]

The weather’s warming up, the pastures are greening, and it’s the perfect time to gear up for an amazing season with us at Cavallo Farms! ✅ EIA Reminders:Before you saddle up for clinics, shows, or trail rides, don’t forget—current Coggins tests (for Equine Infectious Anemia) are required! Let’s keep all our horses safe, happy, and […]

Celebrating Our IEA Riders & Gearing Up for Spring Shows! A huge shoutout to our IEA riders who competed at Zone 4 Finals this past weekend, especially the talented athletes from Tallahassee Riding Academy and the FSUS Equestrian Team! Your hard work and dedication in the arena were inspiring, and we couldn’t be prouder of […]

Congratulations, Amy Center! Cavallo Farms is proud to celebrate Amy Center for earning her FEI Level 1 Jumper Judge license! This is a significant achievement in the world of equestrian judging, marking an important step forward in her career. As a Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) judge, Amy is now qualified to officiate at FEI-sanctioned events […]

Even though Tallahassee doesn’t get the harsh winters of the north, winter horse care and training are still essential! Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just getting started, Cavallo Farms has you covered with smart strategies to keep your equestrian experience fun, safe, and productive this season. 1. Winter Horse Care Essentials: Keep Your Partner […]

As the holiday season settles in, there’s no better time to embrace new experiences and rediscover your passions. Whether you’re looking for a unique family activity, a way to reconnect with nature, or the perfect gift for someone special, Cavallo Farms in Tallahassee is here to make your equestrian dreams come true. With riding lessons […]

For anyone involved in equestrian sports, knowing the basics of horse anatomy and physiology can make a huge difference. Horses are complex animals with unique adaptations that allow them to excel in everything from powerful jumps to long endurance rides. When riders understand how these systems work, they can make better training and care decisions […]

Operating an equestrian training facility like Cavallo Farms in Tallahassee is a labor of love and dedication. From early morning feedings to late-night rides, each person plays a crucial role in creating a supportive and thriving environment. Riders and trainees experience personal growth as they master new skills, bond with their horses, and achieve their […]

The owners of Cavallo Farms, Janet Price Cawley and Amy Owen Center, have a deep-rooted history in the equestrian world, having met as children in Orlando, Florida, where they rode at a competitive Hunter/Jumper barn. Both of them had impressive junior careers, competing in prestigious events such as Pony Finals, Medal and Maclay Finals, and […]

Riders & Dreams: The Evolution of Equestrian Sports at the Olympics The excitement is building as we head into the final stretch of the Paris 2024 Olympics, and if you’re anything like us at [Your Equestrian Facility], you’re glued to the screen, heart racing with every jump, canter, and trot. From majestic show jumping at […]

Source: US Equestrian Communications Department – United States Equestrian Federation A few weeks ago, US Equestrian shared essential guidelines for managing severe heat conditions during equine competitions, based on the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) heat index guidelines. It’s important to note that the AAEP’s heat index, calculated as the sum of temperature plus relative […]

At Cavallo Farms, we believe in nurturing the bond between horses and humans through quality care, expert training, and a welcoming community atmosphere. Our state-of-the-art facilities and experienced staff ensure that both you and your horse receive the best care and training available. This quote from our friends at The Extra Mile Club says it […]

Owning a horse during the summer months requires special considerations to ensure their health and well-being. Here are ten important things to look out for when you’re a horse owner and its summer: Monitoring your horse for these key factors during summer can lead to a healthier season and help prevent issues related to heat […]

Welcome to your first lesson! Hunter/Jumper 101 Welcome to the thrilling world of Hunter/Jumper! This dynamic equestrian sport is comprised of two main disciplines: Hunter and Jumper, also known as Show Jumping. Across the United States, more than 1,000 US Equestrian-rated competitions, alongside numerous local events, set the stage for riders to showcase their skills. […]

Check out the newest message from Cavallo founders Janet Cawley & Amy Owen Center… Hi everyone, We look forward to all of the lovely spring activities, especially the equestrian ones!  We hope that you would join us for local horse showing on Saturday, March 23rd!  There are classes for everyone and every level!  Come practice […]

Greetings, fellow equestrians! As horse enthusiasts, we understand the joy and responsibility that comes with caring for these magnificent creatures. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the essentials of proper horse care, covering everything from feeding and grooming to health maintenance and stable management. 1. Feeding Your Equine Companion: A well-balanced diet is the […]

Show jumping is a demanding and thrilling equestrian discipline that requires precision, skill, and determination. To take your show jumping from average to awesome, it’s essential to focus on honing your abilities as a rider and developing a strong partnership with your horse. Here are 25 tips to elevate your performance in show jumping: By […]

Cavallo Farms stands as a beacon of equestrian excellence, where the bond between riders and their majestic steeds transcends mere competition. The farm takes immense pride in nurturing a community of dedicated equestrian students who exemplify passion and skill in every stride. As these riders participate in various competitions, Cavallo Farms rejoices not just in […]

Thirty years ago this month, Cavallo Farms opened its doors. An equestrian center that specializes in the Hunter/Jumper discipline and offers lessons and coaching for the rider; and training, showing, and boarding for the horse. They began hosting local competitions a few years later.

I’ve been a Cavallo Farms student for over 20 years! The instructors are highly knowledgeable and the best in town. They will take you as far as you want to go and you will shine brighter than you ever can imagine! Erin love spending time around the horses and people. It is filled with a […]

Join us this Saturday, July 29, for a Judge My Ride clinic! Ride a hunter, equitation or handy hunter-type course and get instant feedback from a USEF-licensed judge on how you would have scored, why, and what you could do to improve that score! We are making the schedule now so let us know if […]

Do you have a group of students? Do you have a group of students who like to learn about horses? How about a group that likes to win prizes? Well, the HQC Stable Challenge is for you! Put a team together, have them practice using the free online study guide, and then take the HQC […]

Words from a teacher that align with how all of us feel about teaching our students and what you can learn when you visit Cavallo Farms…  Thursday Thoughts  To all the students we’ve loved before (past and present) There’s a lot we’ve worked on together over the years, and many lessons we hope you’ve learned […]

Thank you to all of the troopers that came out and showed up today! You all helped keep the show moving and we were done in record time! It was so nice to see some new faces at the show and we certainly hope to see you all back on May 20th! Florida Farm and […]

The equestrian world is calling you. At Cavallo Farms, horseback riding is more than just a sport – it’s a way of life. Just minutes from Tallahassee, our mission is to introduce riders of all stages to the incredible world of horses, encompassing the etiquette, confidence and responsibility afforded in the full range of equestrian […]

“LITTLE TRAINING TIP No. 18 – LIFT, DON’T PULL” from Classical Riding & Dressage – Susie Walker – Légèreté. “Every single action we make on the reins is better done without pulling backward, inward, or downward. Therefore, that leaves upward, sideways (neck-reins), or forward. Yes, upwards, on the corner of the lips it is effective. […]

Happy Cavalloween! Cavalloween is an annual event. Subscribe to our Facebook, Newsletter, and check our Calendar periodically to keep in touch with the latest events & farm news. cavallofarms@comcast.net Visit our Facebook page

Check out the below posters of our upcoming events, sponsorships, and cash rewards. Cavalloween is just around the corner! Come try your your hand at one (or two) of the $500 Hunter Derbies! Can’t wait to see all of the costumes for the Halloween Haunter Costume Class! Make sure to check out all of our […]

Florida Farm & Feed Said it best… “Your horse is more than just another animal, it may be a companion, friend, and family member as well as a work partner, exercise buddy, business asset, and show stopper. To keep your horse up to fulfilling all those roles, you need to have the proper tack, equipment, […]

Cavallo’s very own Sarah Randell, DVM, began her equestrian journey working as a groomer and exercise rider before completing Veterinary school. She has come a long way from being a “Cavallo Kid” and has completed a Bachelor’s in Animal Science and Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine. Cavallo Farms is able to provide a custom plan for […]

“We want to honor the unsung heroes of our sport—trainers who work tirelessly to improve the education of both riders and horses. And we need your help! Nominate a trainer for Practical Horseman’s 2022 Trainer of the Year award. The trainer must strive for excellence in the disciplines of hunters, jumpers, eventing, and dressage. “ Top […]

Life is like riding a horse. “To keep your balance you must keep moving” – Albert Einstein “Another great day of horsemanship learning! Our crew yesterday started with morning feeding which included haying first; bringing in (proper leading discussions), feeding and the differences between concentrates, forages, and supplements; turning out; proper stall cleaning; and the […]

USHJA IN STRIDE MAGAZINE

Ian McFarlin and Cavallo riders win national honors! Our Trip to IEA Nationals: The Interscholastic Equestrian Association, providing team and individual equestrian competition to middle and high school students, just celebrated its 20th year during its National Championship. Riders and Teams compete up to five times during the regular season and if qualified, continue to […]

“Sometimes we are called trainers, but we are more than that.” – Janet Cawley “There is a difference between a trainer and a mentor. A trainer teaches you how to ride and a mentor teaches you how to be a horsewoman. A mentor is someone you call for their endless equine medical advice. Someone you […]

“As a relative newcomer to the horse world, I can say without hesitation that my Cavallo family has been instrumental in making me the rider I am today.” Ian McFarlin Cavallo Farms touches the lives of both students and their horse companions. The leadership style of owners Amy Center, and Janet Cawley creates an environment […]

Please be sure to check out our events calendar. We can’t wait to see all of our local riders at our next show! Check out the prize list to see all of the fun opportunities for this year! Our Next Event is the Handy Hunter Class on February 26th. Join us for some great opportunities […]

What is the “Right Stuff”? and why do Horse Riders have it? nounInformal. Usually “the right stuff”. The necessary or ideal qualities or capabilities, as courage, confidence, dependability, toughness, or daring. According to a study done by the German Equestrian Federation there are several character elements to horse riding. This study was conducted on 411 riders with […]

We had a phenomenal time hosting the SHJA banquet this year. Such fabulous prizes, food, camaraderie and fun! Congratulations to everyone on a great year. A brief history on the SHJA: “The first Maclay class, called the Horsemanship Cup was introduced in 1933. Audrey Hasler – Chesney won the very first Maclay Championship in ‘33. Back then, […]

Horses are everything to be thankful for. We appreciate horses in a multitude of ways, but in short here are the main 3 reasons. Health Horses help are extremely beneficial to one’s health and well-being. Tending to horses alone will have you racking up steps and lifting weight with buckets, hay bales, and saddles. There […]

Pictured is Paddy Downing-Nygard who has acted as a USEF “R” Judge in the Hunter/ Equitation/Jumper area for 25 years. She has played a part in several judged shows such as Harrisburg National, Plam Beach Equestrian Festival, Devon, Arabian Nationals etc. Cavallo hosts a Halloween horse show every year that yields the most creative crowd […]

Great show on September 18th! Thanks to everyone who came out! Congratulations to all the riders! Fabulous trips all around! Pictured below are the top three in the $500 Tractor Supply Derby.1st: “Wishful” ridden by Hayden Center2nd : “Fever’s Mine” ridden by Callie Sweeney 3rd : “Classic Marq” ridden by Maddie Pretti How to correctly […]

Everyone who is involved in, or a fan of, a sport would love to have the chance to see how the “best of the best” do things.  I recently accompanied my family to a day at the Tampa Bay Buccaneer’s Summer Training Camp.  Now for those who don’t know football, the Bucs are the reigning […]

Cavallo Farms is proud to coach the FSUS Equestrian Team, a member of the IEA (www.rideiea.org). And for all riders of all schools in our area, including home-schooled, join us on the Tallahassee Riding Academy team! VARSITY EQUESTRIAN · FSUS Equestrian Team “While our teams are hosted at Cavallo Farms, riders do not need to be students […]

The Olympics have been occurring since 1896 with the art and athleticism of riding being added in 1900. The 1924 Olympics was the first event where equestrian competitions were held under the authority of the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI). The FEI is celebrating its 100yrs in 2021 as the world governing body for […]

This article titled “Lindsay Maxwell Charitable Fund/USHJA Emerging Athletes Program” breaks down how it works, regional and national equestrian training, as well as their commitment to safety. “The Lindsay Maxwell Charitable Fund/USHJA Emerging Athletes Program was created to provide opportunities for young riders to advance their horsemanship education and riding skills. Since the EAP’s inception […]

Cavallo Farms Owners, Janet and Amy, only had good things to say about their team this past week at the World Equestrian Center as their riders really give it their all. “I am so proud of all our riders this past week at the World Equestrian Ocala show!!! There were many successes and lessons we […]

Get your equestrian thinking caps on people, it’s time for the HQC Stable Challenge. Starting June 15 you and everyone you know can take the HQC practice test. Make sure to put your trainer down as Janet Price Cawley so everyone’s tests count towards Cavallo Farms!! Good luck and keep learning!! USHJA Event Details When: June […]

We found a great article hosted on the Practical Horseman by Danny Robertshaw called What Makes a Winning Hunter Round We encourage you to check it out. Here is a short excerpt… “What Your Riding Is Telling the Judge”  “Although your position and technical riding skills don’t affect your score directly in hunter classes the […]

“More than fluff: Tallahassee fifth grader to compete at National Equestrian Finals” Cavallo Farms very own Kiersten Cawley and Marshmallow make the news for her stellar competitive performances and riding prowess. Read more on WCTV’s article below. “I’m lucky,” said mom Janet Cawley. “She says she’s nervous, but she’s a very good competitor in all […]

Authors: Heather Cox Richardson, Michael S. Green 1) Traveller General Robert E. Lee rode Traveller (spelled with two Ls, in the British style) from February 1862 until the general’s death in 1870. Traveller was a grey American Saddlebred of 16 hands. He had great endurance for long marches, and was generally unflappable in battle, although […]

Grooming is an integral part of your daily routine with your horse.  Make sure that you are taking advantage of this activity for both yourself and your horse.  Everyone tends to be rushed and many riders today rely on others to groom their horses.  Find ways to integrate this valuable time into your personal schedule […]

Competition can be a positive addition to any sport.  Competition creates drive, humility, discipline, and passion.  Being successful in competition takes talent, hard work, confidence, resources, passion and attitude.  I have always loved the saying “practice like you have never won; compete like you have never lost.”  One cannot always control their talent and resources, […]

The mental benefits of horseback riding are numerous. The psychological value of therapeutic riding is well-established for emotional disorders such as PTSD and Autism. So, it’s only natural that all levels of equestrian participation can provide relaxation, focus, discipline, trust, socialization, and mood enhancement. In a survey of 2,650 amateur and professional riders, all participants […]

Beginning Riders: Horseback riding requires more physical exertion than most people realize. Riding at beginner paces is a moderately intense exercise equal to cycling, or tennis doubles, AND it’s a fun way to exercise. For those who count steps, 2,000 steps are about the equivalent of horseback riding for fifteen minutes. Riding horses can help […]

Fifteen-year-old Ian McFarlin, a sophomore at Saint John Paul II Catholic High School, expressed an interest in riding horses just three short years ago.  Coming to the sport a little later than most, but with great enthusiasm and talent, Ian has moved up the ranks of the Hunter/Jumper discipline quickly.  While his riding skills continue […]

Hayden Center, a local student qualified to compete at the IEA National Hunt Seat Finals held in Syracuse, New York; April 20-22, 2018.  The event was held at the Toyota Coliseum on the New York State Fairgrounds.  Horses were provided by area Universities, riding academies, and local training stables.  Riders draw an unfamiliar horse, and […]

I never knew about horses until our daughter, Janet, had what we call “horse fever’ – also known as “irrational love for horses”. Actually, she was born with it. That was when I was a Surgery Resident and we lived pretty far out in Gainesville because rents were a lot less at the edge of […]