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 was to the girls, 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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Neal Blair
In 2012, Neal Blair joined the team at the boarder barn to help with the more advanced riders as well as providing training rides for the horses that need it. Neal has been a professional trainer for over 35 years. He was raised in a family who owned their own equestrian business. Rose Hill Stables (his family business), was a very successful show barn, including showing at the rated shows. He has added so much to JREC. His years of experience have taught Neal so much. In 2016, he was awarded the Forest Linton Sportsmanship Award at the VHSA associate finals