BTB: A word about Riveredge

Posted: 08 Mar 2011 01:28 PM PST

Riveredge, the Hassler training facility in Chesapeake, MD was the perfect setting for the rewarding/educational Bo Jena clinic. It's owned by Tom and Leslie Malone. I knew it would be nice, and I saw myself tip-toeing around the place trying not to gawk. I felt like I was going to visit the equestrian version of the Biltmore Estate.

We have arrived...

As we drove through the main entrance and along the treelined drive, our van was filled with "ooohs" and "ahhhs." I marveled that a mere $45 not only got me admittance to a clinic, but also the chance to spend the day at a premier facility. We walked into the courtyard toward the entrance doors. I coached myself a little. "Act like you belong here, and don't snoop!"

As we walked into the barn, a greeter welcomed us. We were given a program of the day's events, a pen, and a notebook for notes. I was feeling less like an interloper now. As I walked down the aisle to the restroom, a blonde woman was walking the opposite direction. She nodded at us and smiled. "Are you enjoying youselves?" We told her we were, and my friend Nancy told me I had just met Suzanne Hassler. Throughout the day the Hasslers and the staff were so gracious--I just can't say enough about how beautiful it was, yet also homey. No one is holding their breath as they walk around.

I took a few videos and some pix. Here is my video of the entrance to the barn, and I'll annotate the photos below...