You Can Ride Retired Racehorses At This Little Known Texas Farm
By Katie Lawrence|Published October 05, 2018
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
Horseback riding is an activity all of us Texans have done at least once or twice, but I guarantee not many of those horses have been retired from racing. This unique opportunity lets you get in the saddle atop some of America’s most elegant, well-trained gentle giants. Check it out:
Founder Valerie Mellema dreamed of having her own farm since she was just five years old. Last year, that vision became a reality when Lake Fork Stables was born.
Mellema has a degree in Equine Business & Industry and spent her college years interning at various farms. Needless to say, she has plenty of experience with these gentle giants!
This is Mistic Gray, one of the retired racehorses visitors can ride. He's a 19-year-old thoroughbred and won more than $600 over the course of his career.
Mr. Tall, Dark, and Handsome right here goes by the name of Johnny Hurricane. He's a seven-year-old thoroughbred and brought in over $8,000 during his time on the track.
The program is geared towards those with little to no previous horse experience, so it's perfect for kids. An emphasis is placed on safety and horsemanship, and guests will have the opportunity to ride in a well-lighted arena.
Another neat thing about Lake Fork is the horse-boarding program. If you're traveling to a show or trail ride and need a place to stay overnight, the farm has stalls and turnout pens, and cabins for the humans.
Horses are some of the most therapeutic animals on Earth. If you or a loved one suffers from an illness, simply being in the presence of these peaceful creatures does wonders for an anguished spirit.
If you're looking for something different to do here in Texas, consider a visit to the stable. You can click here to reserve a spot for horseback riding.
Lake Fork Stables is located at 270 CR 1880, Yantis, TX 75497.
Have you ever been to Lake Fork Stables? Are there any other horseback riding opportunities with an X-factor setting them apart from all others? Let us know in the comments!
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