Testimonials
We are incredibly grateful for the impact that Ashley and Dean have had on our daughter’s life. They have found the rare balance of being both gentle and tough, knowing exactly when to encourage, when to challenge, and when to hold her to a higher standard. Through their guidance, she hasn’t just learned how to ride; she has discovered a true passion and a deeper sense of confidence in herself.
What makes them so special is that they are far more than horse instructors. They teach patience, resilience, responsibility, and respect, lessons that reach far beyond the arena. They push her when she needs to be pushed, whether it’s refining her skills on the horse or helping her grow through moments of attitude or self-doubt. Ashley and Dean have different yet complementary skill sets, and it has been wonderful to watch our daughter respond so well to each of them — we feel incredibly lucky that she gets the opportunity to learn from both of them every week. Because of them, she is becoming stronger not only as a rider, but as a person.
Their care for their students is genuine and deeply felt. Our entire family appreciates the dedication, honesty, and heart they bring every single day. They are truly loved by our family, and we feel incredibly lucky to be part of their program.
Kristin B
A friend recommended Ashley and Dean at Summit Equestrian because I was looking to improve my seat and receive top‑notch equitation instruction. Their guidance, knowledge, and commitment to developing both horse and rider have made a meaningful impact on my progress. They create an environment that is positive, confidence‑building, and rooted in true horsemanship.
Their ability to communicate clearly, tailor instruction to individual needs, and bring out the best in every rider sets them apart. I have grown under their coaching—both in skill and in confidence. I have since ridden in several other countries and whenever a horse feels a bit fresh I hear their calm voices in my head, reminding me to sit back, drop my heels, breathe and make that horse do what I need it to do.
I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone seeking high‑quality equitation training and a team that genuinely cares about your success.
Renee M
I feel incredibly fortunate to train with Dean Lacey. What makes him exceptional isn’t just his knowledge of horses, but the quiet mastery and care he brings to every lesson. He has a rare ability to meet each horse and rider where they are, helping both grow in confidence and harmony.
Alongside his fiancée, Ashley, he has created a welcoming and supportive space where riders feel safe to learn and improve.
I’m truly grateful to be his student and excited to pursue my goal of competing, knowing I’m guided by someone who genuinely believes in the journey.
Sarah O
From the minute I met Ashley, I was struck by her authenticity and presence when listening to her riders' needs and goals. She treats her horses and students with great respect and instills and embodies the perfect balance of "You can do this" and "I've got you" -- no matter the challenge. I've greatly appreciated her willingness to meet me where I am as a rider, whether I'm progressing or need to take a step back. I can't recommend her enough for riders of all ages.
Trish
Ashley and her program are amazing! My daughter has been riding with her for almost 10 years, and it has been an incredible experience. Ashley’s program teaches so many valuable lessons that go far beyond just riding. In addition to developing strong riding skills, students learn responsibility by helping care for the horses and understanding what it takes to work with them.Ashley clearly takes great pride in her program and provides excellent care for all of her horses. She also offers a variety of opportunities for riders of all levels, making it a welcoming and supportive environment for beginners as well as more experienced riders. I highly recommend Ashley and her program!
Jenny
We love how Dean and Ashley teach the whole horse. My daughter’s favorite moments are the quiet times of connection, especially with the horses who need a little extra love and attention. This program authentically honors the bond between child and horse while still providing excellent riding instruction. We are thankful for a space like this that helps our daughter thrive.
Ashley W
I have been thoroughly enjoying my experiences learning riding and horsemanship from Ashley Aarts. Coming to riding later in life I had some reservations, but I soon experienced that Ashley meets her students where they are, tailors her instruction accordingly, and can help us grow in ways we didn’t think we could, all with a strong grounding in safety for both students and horses. She is firm when needed and supportive when confidence falters. Having opportunities here to expand my lessons into groundwork has also been extremely beneficial in enhancing my partnership with horses.This entire experience has exceeded my expectations!
Paula
Our daughters have been going to Hoofbeats for 5 years. Their equestrian skills have developed greatly, their knowledge of horsemanship is significant, and their appreciation and love of horses is huge. Ashley has tremendously contributed to their growth in confidence and approaches each of her students as individuals, taking into consideration each of their specific needs, strengths, and weaknesses. We are very grateful for the experience and opportunity to have our daughters in Ashley's program!
Allison R
I can not say enough good things about Ashley and the program and community she has created. Her care for her horses is matched only by her care for her students. My girls have been taught to ride, and taught to ride well - I can spot Ashley's kids from a mile away; they look so comfortable and secure in the saddle. More importantly, they are being taught horsemanship, hard work, and dedication in a community that both challenges and supports them. Ashley nurtures this community and these girls and that is priceless.
Natasha
The facilities at Summit Ranch are fantastic, and I feel lucky to have found a place like this. Dean made it possible for me to finally pursue something I had wanted to do for decades, and I’m looking forward to continuing the journey.
I started taking riding lessons with Dean at Summit Ranch with zero experience at age 50. Learning to ride had been a lifelong goal of mine, and Dean made the whole process approachable from day one.
Riding a horse for the first time can be intimidating. You’re sitting on a massive animal and trying to learn something completely new. Dean has a calm, easygoing style that keeps things grounded. He gives just the right amount of instruction without overloading you, which made it much easier to build confidence in the saddle.
What I appreciated most is that he teaches the full experience of horsemanship, not just riding. From grooming and tacking the horse, to understanding the equipment, to riding and properly putting the horse away afterward. You walk away understanding the process, not just the basics.
Dean also has a way of dropping short one-liners and bits of wisdom that stick with you long after the lesson. It’s clear he brings a lifetime of experience and a deep understanding of horses.
Darcy