Take the Reins!

Driving Lessons

The Grand Oaks trainers are available to teach the classical styles of Pleasure Driving or the exhilarating technique of Combined Driving. We offer lessons for;

• Single Horse
• Pairs
• Tandem
• Teams of Four-in-Hand
• Coaching
• Combined Driving with Gavin Robson

Whether you are a beginner driver or a frequent competitor, the learning opportunities are endless! Our CAA Certified Level 1 & 2 Instructors will educate beginner students in the knowledge of the harness, the carriage, and safe habits of driving with a hands-on approach. Each lesson is tailored to meet the needs of the student to facilitate developing their horsemanship.

Drivers with experience will also enhance their technique and expand their understanding of Pleasure Driving or Combined Driving. Come to the Grand Oaks and learn from the best trainers in the industry!

Additional Information for all driving Lessons:

• Lessons are by Appointment only, Tuesday - Sunday. Call: 352.750.5500 ext. 227
• No Experience Required
• Drivers need to wear closed-toed shoes and appropriate clothing for stables.
• Drivers under 16 years old are required to wear a helmet, which is provided.

Riding Lessons

The Grand Oaks offers Private Riding Lessons from beginning to advanced levels in English or Western. Lessons are geared towards the Rider's ability with the appropriate horse.

Additional information for all Riding Lessons:

• Lessons are by appointment only, Tuesday - Sunday. Call 352.750.5500 ext. 227
• No experience required. We do not offer jumping at this time.
• Riders need to wear closed-toed shoes and appropriate clothing for stables.
• Riders are required to wear a helmet, which is provided.
  

Groom School

The Florida Carriage Museum is the perfect centerpiece for the Groom School Series offered at the Grand Oaks Resort. Grooms or drivers will stay at the Resort for a week while they study the history, details and practices of Carriage Driving.

Students will study the following:

• General History of Carriages
• Basic Equine Management, Health & Fitness
• Harness appointments from single to team
• Methods of putting-to a carriage
• Carriages: types and maintenance
• Safe habits of Driving
• Navigating for Combined Driving
• Turnout for Pleasure Driving or Dressage
• ...and so much more!

With the resources available through The Florida Carriage Museum and through our extensively experienced staff, Grooms who study at The Grand Oaks Resort will be ready for the show ring!  For more information please call 352.750.5500 ext 227

Groom Instruction

The Grand Oaks also offers individual subjects for study from our Groom School, taught by the hour. This program allows for students to hone their knowledge and skills in one of the following specified areas:

• General History of Carriages
• Basic Equine Management, Health & Fitness
• Harness appointments from single to team
• Methods of putting-to a carriage
• Carriages: types and maintenance
• Safe habits of Driving
• Navigating for Combined Driving
• Turnout for Pleasure Driving or Dressage

Custom lesson packages are available upon request. Please call 352.750.5500 ext. 227 for details.