Come Learn With Us......Come Ride With Us!

Using the equine experience for positive change, emotional growth & learning.
Riding Lessons
Clinics/Events
Team Building/Skills Development

Fall & Winter Riding Programs Available

Try Before You Buy
Contact us to set up your free introductory lesson!

Riding Through Barriers Society
 & Junior Jockeys of Flying Cross Ranch

A big thanks to Horse Nation, Ovation Riding and Noelle Maxwell for showcasing our programs and riders!

​“The Sturgeons noticed families taking a round of lessons, then quitting until they could afford another round. Roy and Christina ‘couldn’t see a kid go without because of money,’ and allowed kids to continue riding anyway. Riding Through Barriers was formed.”

​Riding Through Barriers (RTBS), which funds lessons, clinics, and camps for families who otherwise couldn’t afford horses, began in 2015 as an offshoot of the lesson program at Roy and Christina Sturgeon’s Flying Cross Farm, based in Lacombe, Alberta, Canada. The Sturgeons noticed families taking a round of lessons, then quitting until they could afford another round. Roy and Christina “couldn’t see a kid go without because of money,” and allowed kids to continue riding anyway. When parents realized how many kids the Sturgeons supported, they wanted to help, and RTBS was formed.

Read the full story on Horse Nation here

When asked how RTBS has impacted those in the program, several parents submitted responses:
  • “I can’t express enough the huge positive impact the programs at Flying Cross Ranch had on my daughter. She started riding at 13 and was shy, quiet, and reserved. I believe her experiences in the programs have helped her grow into a 15-year-old who expresses herself with confidence. She’s flourished in the atmosphere of acceptance, dedication, and support at Flying Cross Ranch.”
  • “The riding programs at Flying Cross Ranch have impacted our family in many ways. I have three girls who ride at the ranch, two are my nieces who I took over guardianship for a few years ago. It was a hard time for us, emotionally and financially. RTBS helped me financially to provide my girls this riding adventure. It turned out to be more than exercise and a place to get away. Through volunteering, the girls have had opportunities to do chores and gain a new understanding of hard work, to deal with the public and show respect in tough situations while under timelines and pressure. They’ve had opportunities to be part of a team with the Junior Jockeys. Roy and his team gave them a place to learn and grow. It’s astounding to see the change in these children, physically and mentally. When you met these kids, you might think they wouldn’t make it through the first week. They’ve stuck with it, showing determination, forming friendships along the way, and encouraging each other at every practice. Riding can be scary, but the girls are strong and look a challenge in the eye and give it a wink. I’m so thankful for this opportunity, it’s been life-changing for my family.”
  • “RTBS helped my family immensely. Without them, my children wouldn’t have been riding, and without riding, I doubt my oldest daughter would’ve made it through her father’s and my divorce. It was hard on her; she endured hardships no child that young should ever go through. I joined RTBS primarily to help fund my children’s riding because as a single mom, I couldn’t afford the fees. Over the years, I’ve been part of an amazing group of parents raising enough to provide funds for others in Central Alberta to experience the Ranch and the healing that takes place there! I’m proud of what we’ve achieved!”
  • “RTBS helped my daughter. She was struggling in school and with making friends. Not long after she started riding, my husband was laid off. Through fundraising, RTBS helped cover her fees so she could continue riding. Her grades went up and she’s been on the honor roll since.”
  • “We joined RTBS initially to help pay for my daughter’s lessons. Over the years, I’ve watched her grow into a kind, caring, confident young woman. She’s learned to be part of a team while making friends and learning skills that’ll last a lifetime. The barn is a safe place where any child can learn and grow; to watch it happen is truly amazing.”
  • “RTBS provides an avenue for children to participate in programs such as Junior Jockeys. Anything involving horses is expensive and these costs prevent many kids from enjoying learning with horses. Riding differs from many other sports because it’s about the connection between rider and animal. It’s something many kids thrive on when nothing else works. RTBS aims to enable as many kids as possible to have these wonderful experiences, without money as a barrier. It’s wonderful to see a child learn and grow in an environment they thrive in.”
If you would like to help our Junior Jockeys go to the Jockeys & Jeans Gala in Santa Anita click on the button below.

T E S T I M O N I A L S

Happy People
My name is Brandy, my three girls and I ride at Flying Cross Ranch. I started my girls out there about three years ago hoping that they would be able to have a childhood ranch experience as I did learning many skills such as; confidence, how to problem solve, trust, honesty, how to work hard and many more reasons. Roy is a wonderful teacher who always makes you feel like you are someone. After watching my girls get so much enjoyment out of their lessons I started to miss riding. At the time I was very over weight and unhappy with myself. I wanted to ride again but ranches don't accept over weight people. Well after rounding up a lot of courage I asked and was welcomed to start taking lessons. 65 lbs later, a whole lot more confident and competing in a three day event in one year. I'm am so happy to be part of the Flying Cross Ranch family.

~Brandy~
We started riding at Flying Cross Ranch two years ago and it quickly became my families happiest place to be. Our daughter has gained so much confidence and self esteem through her riding lessons...everyone is always so welcoming and caring. We are so thankful to have found this amazing place!

~Karen~
Flying Cross Ranch has become part of our family, the people and the animals have made the Ranch my children's safe haven where they can go and forget about everything and just be amazing! Riding at Flying Cross Ranch with Roy as her teacher, my daughter has flourished, her self confidence and self esteem have grown immensely. I'm forever thankful to everyone at Flying Cross for getting my daughter through a couple of the worst years of her life!

~Amanda~

Contact Us

We would love to hear from you!

Email - info@flyingcrossranch.com
Phone - 403-350-7368
RR4 Site 5 Box 49 Lacombe Alberta T4L-2N5