About Us

The Riders Up! program was created to help parents have an affordable option for activities for their children. As we were building our regular lesson program, it quickly became apparent that the cost of lessons was out of reach financially for many families. We created this program for the children who have a passion for horses, but not necessarily the means to pursue it, and the children who need a dependable friend and therapist in the form of a horse. Lake Fork Stables is the only facility in Northeast Texas offering the Horse Boy Method for children on the autism spectrum. We have since expanded our program offerings to older adults as well, helping them find joy in the journey of life.

Our mission is to provide children and adults with the opportunity to learn not only how to ride but also horsemanship, horse care, and stable management while providing off-the-track Thoroughbreds with careers after racing.

About Our Founder

Valerie Mellema

Valerie has been riding since she was a small child and has been involved with horses for most of her life. While she primarily focuses on dressage now, she is an experienced Western and English rider and trainer. She founded Riders Up! with a vision to help local children achieve their equestrian goals and dreams, regardless of their physical, mental, or financial circumstances. She also has a passion for Thoroughbred aftercare, as she founded the program with her off-the-track Thoroughbred, Mistic, as the primary lesson horse. Over the years, she has made a concerted effort to continue her education, not only in teaching riding but also in equine bodywork, to ensure that our lesson horses are happy partners for our riders.

B.S in Agribusiness/Equine Business & Industry from West Texas A&M University
American Riding Instructor Certified - Level II - Hunt Seat & Dressage
Horse Boy Method Practitioner
Horse Powered Reading Certified
PEMF Therapy Certified
Cranio Sacral Therapy Certified
Kinesiology Tape Certified

Meet the Team

Merissa Strahin

Merissa is our assistant riding instructor as well as our farrier. She has been practicing farrier work over the past several years while also developing her own riding and training skills. She is also certified in Horse Powered Reading.
Troy Mellema

BOARD MEMBER
Marea Breedlove

BOARD MEMBER
Jennifer Schneider

BOARD MEMBER