Young Horse Raising

We have opened the fields at Hilltop Farm to those in the industry needing access to young horse raising services. Breeders, or owners of young horses seeking, a safe, natural environment for their young sport horse prospect during the rearing years are often limited in the situation they themselves can provide.  Traditional boarding facilities, or pastures with no other youngsters, do not offer the freedom and herd dynamics that young horses need to be exposed to for their optimal development.

At Hilltop Farm, our horses are raised in small herds, separated by age and gender.  They learn important herd dynamics that will stay with them throughout their lifetime. The strength and development gained by the growing horse on these rolling hills is unparalleled for building a strong and athletic foundation.

Each horse in our fields receives daily care and attention.  We feed in individual feed stalls so there is no competing for food. Grooming and handling lessons are included in the young horses education and the goal of the program is to nurture the young horses so they are confident and willing to work by the time they are ready to begin under saddle training. 

Hilltop Farm is proud of our staff of highly qualified horsemen, skilled and experienced in keeping a watchful eye on the health and ongoing development of horses.  Many additional aspects of care are available including sales, preparation for handling at breed shows and inspections, and twice yearly video/photo updates for our clients not close enough to visit. 

We are very proud of the accomplishments of the horses, both past and present, in our Program.  Just to name a few are the following:

Qredit (Quaterback-Dream of Glory)

2008 Oldenburg colt, formerly owned by Michelle and Chris Coursin and bred by Judy Yancey, was undefeated in his debut show season and topped off the year by winning the Grand Championship at Devon in 2009.

Chiquita HTF (Contucci-Cordoba)

2008 Hanoverian filly owned by Hilltop Farm, was  the inaugural Foal Champion, Reserve Champion Filly, and USDF East Coast Filly Final Champion at Devon in 2008.

Selten HW (Sandro Hit-Hohenstein)

The 2006 Reserve Grand Champion at Devon and under Hilltop Farm trainer Michael Bragdell was the 2008 USEF 4 Year Old Young Horse National Champion and was the USEF 5 Year Old National Champion in 2009 with owner Elizabeth Ball.

The Raising Program has seen tremendous growth in the past year and spaces in each age group are limited.  It is important to plan ahead and make reservations early.  Waiting lists are available for groups which are currently full.

Please contact Melissa Burke for further details.