ABOUT
US
The James River Equestrian Center is located on the historical Keswick Plantation in Powhatan County. Conveniently located one and a half miles from the interchange of Rt. 288 and Huguenot Springs Rd, the property dates back to the early 1700’s. Keswick is a registered Virginia Historic Landmark, and is on the National Register of Historic Places.
JREC consists of approximately 75 acres and three barns on the plantation. The Riding School is run at the first two barns as you enter the plantation. The Boarding Barn is the large barn at the back of the property
“JREC” (formerly known as James River Riding School, Inc.), started in May of 1996 as an English riding school. In 1998, we added another barn at the back of the property expanding the business to a boarding/lesson/show facility. We specialize in hunt seat riding.
JREC is owned and operated by Vicki Phillips. Vicki's daughter grew up riding at a barn with a "family" feel. Vicki was so impressed with how important this barn community was to the students, she felt led to create the same environment in her own business. Vicki wants to share the love, passion, and joy of riding with the public and is proud of the lasting relationships forged over the years through the love of horses and riding.
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OUR
INSTRUCTORS
Vicki Phillips
Vicki Phillips has owned The James River Equestrian Center since 1996. Vicki’s passion for teaching began as a Riding Instructor in 1991. Over the years, Vicki has enjoyed her various equestrian roles, from competing herself, seeing her students and her own children grow through their experiences with horses, to owning her own animals and learning the business of running an Equestrian Center. Vicki is most proud of the unique family environment that has developed at the James River Equestrian Center.
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Vicki was awarded the Forest Linton Sportsmanship Award at the VHSA associate finals in 2013
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Elizabeth Carter
Elizabeth Carter is a dedicated and passionate equestrian with a lifelong love for horses. From a young age, she has been immersed in the world of horseback riding and has developed a deep understanding and appreciation for the sport. Elizabeth has competed at the top level, showcasing her talent and expertise in the saddle. She spent four years riding for Oklahoma State University’s Division I equestrian team. During this time she was a four time consecutive Big XII champion and the 2022 national champion. She was also named the 2024 horseman of the year at OSU. She has trained under many of our industry's top professionals including; Jeff Bradner, Jan Simpson, and Katherine Schmidt Butler. Her commitment to the sport is evident in her relentless pursuit of excellence and her unwavering dedication to horses and riders. Elizabeth's energetic and positive attitude, combined with her hard work and determination, have made her a respected figure in the equestrian community.