Training and Lessons
Faye Benedict Smith
Owner and Head Trainer
Faye is an experienced and knowledgable horseman who has been riding horses for over 30 years and training horses for over 20.
In 2005, Benedict Smith opened Fairbanks Stable.
In the beginning, specializing in sales and lessons but has since expanded into training and boarding.
Faye specializes in training riders in the disciplines of Eventing, Hunters, and Equitation. She regularly trains young horses, brings along young stock for clients, and works with horses with behavioral problems.
Showing & Pacing
At Fairbanks Stable, we believe some of the best training happens outside the familiar surroundings of home. We enjoy taking our horses off property to local and rated horse shows, hunter paces, fox hunts, trail rides, and other outings that give them the opportunity to experience new places, environments, and challenges.
Exposing horses to different situations is an important part of their education and development. Learning to navigate busy warm-up rings, unfamiliar arenas, trails, fields, crowds, new surroundings, and unexpected distractions helps horses become more confident, adaptable, and reliable partners. These experiences also allow riders to continue developing their own skills, learning how to communicate with their horses in new environments and helping them stay calm and confident when things don't go exactly as planned.
But getting out with our horses isn't only about training and competition. It is also about having great experiences, trying new things, and simply having fun. We want our horses to enjoy their jobs and for our riders to enjoy the experience alongside them.
How to Book a Lesson
Make an Appointment
In order to book a lesson, please call or text Faye to discuss availability in our schedule. Scheduling ahead is the only way to book a lesson, "walk-ins" are not permitted.
Contact Faye: (518) 337 - 7362
Rates
Beginner Lessons - $40
Group Lesson - $55
Private Lesson - $65
4-H Member Discount: $35 for any lesson
Horse Showing
Hunter Pacing
Which lesson is right for me or my child?
Beginner Lesson
Beginner lessons are for young riders who have never ridden a horse before, need assistance while riding, are walk/trotting, and are beginning to canter. Riders 3 years of age and older are welcome!
Sessions are 30 minutes long with 1-2 riders per session
Group Lesson
Group lessons have multiple riders in one session. Groups are organized by similar ability levels and all riders in the group receive equal personalized instruction.
Sessions are 45 mins - 1 hour long with 2 - 4 riders per session
Private Lesson
Private lessons are a 1-on-1 session. The rider is the only one being coached during this session and riders receive personalized detailed instruction.
Sessions are 30 - 45 minutes long with 1 rider per session
4-H Member Discount
All students who are a member of the Bridle Buddies 4-H Club will be charged a discounted flat rate regardless of the lesson type they are participating in.
