A first of its kind equestrian facility has opened in Far Hills, NJ to allow equestrians to train at the top of the sport while enjoying the amenities of a beautiful property, stunning barn, and unparalleled quality of horse care. The Hill was founded by top hunter/jumper/equitation trainers Michael Dowling and Michael Meyers, along with their close friends Tracy Howe and her husband Peter Kraft. The Hill was created from the combination of Dowling and Meyers’ Windham Hill and Howe and Kraft’s Taylor Hill Farm to bring to life a high end equestrian facility of “Grand Prix Village” caliber, but in the heart of Far Hills, NJ.
As described by Peter, “The Hill is the realization of 10 years of vision, dreams and planning about what a top equestrian farm could be. And frankly, it’s the culmination of decades of horse farm experiences by Michael Dowling and Tracy Howe.”
As individuals who have ridden for most of their lives and have the experience of being consumers in the industry, Tracy and Peter bring expertise regarding the services clients want in a facility. Michael, co-owner of the Monmouth at the Team show held at Hamilton Farm, has more than 25 years in the business. A professor of Equine Studies and Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) coach at Centenary University, he has qualified riders for ASPCA Maclay Finals, USEF Medal Finals, USET Finals, Young Riders, USEF Junior Hunter Finals, USEF Pony Finals, and Indoors. He attributes this success to an emphasis on horsemanship and developing thinking riders, as well as the forward riding system.
Due to the availability of Michael Meyers and assistant trainer Ginny Lussan, training is available for riders of all ages and levels. Lessons are available on the client’s own horse or on one of The Hill’s horses.
“Once we decided to create The Hill, the obvious need was to find a facility that would be everything we wanted it to be,” Michael noted. The Hill is less than 50 minutes from New York city, so several clients commute from the city, and this location will allow more to do so, while remaining accessible to those in the New Jersey area. “We also needed a place that allowed us to grow. We are lucky to have found a place that will allow us to cultivate the environment we envisioned.”
The Hill is located in the beautiful countryside of New Jersey with an indoor and outdoor arena, access to hundreds of acres for trail riding, and convenient to quality horse shows. The farm also boasts a grass jump field, and the sister farm across the street allows clients to ride in virtually any setting. Whether they wish to ride alone, in a group, hack out, or have a lesson, The Hill’s facilities meet their needs.
“Everything about The Hill represents quality and experience for riders, families and of course, their mounts,” said Peter. “The Hill is a blend of exquisite old-world architecture with modern technology.” Wireless Sonos music is available throughout the barn and indoor arena and high-speed wifi is available across the entire property. As the facility continues to develop, so will the technical innovations with video monitoring of every stall and riding arena capacity monitoring sensors to be added.
The Hill will feature a first of its kind Rider and Family Lounge which will include a 2 screen by 2 screen video wall allowing families to watch their riders’ lessons, sports games, television shows, and more in a high-end boutique space. Glass offices with flat screens, a gym, bathroom and changing area, study nooks, and a gourmet catering kitchen for events will also be added.
Training at The Hill incorporates flatwork and gymnastic work to hone horse and rider skills. Large grass fields on the property are utilized for strength and fitness and allow horses and riders to train on all terrain. Soon to be available as a conditioning option is a new treadmill with individual programming options for each horse.
Top of the line horse care is a priority at The Hill with individualized options for each horse. Feed, turnout, and care regimens are decided upon with owners based upon their horses’ specific needs. Grass and stone dust paddocks available in a multitude of sizes allow horses ample turnout time, and spacious stalls give them each their own space.
The entire team at The Hill is excited to bring their dream to life and share it with the rest of the equestrian community. Their hope is to continue expanding to bring quality horse care and training to horses and riders of all levels, while continuing to keep their comfort and the comfort of their families as a top priority.