PEOPLEHorse

By Ann Belote-Weir

to shows – local shows, Saturday through Sunday shows, and some events I have sponsored, and they’ve used the arena as a practice facility,” said Smetka. Outside school districts with equestrian teams have also contacted him to ride.

With all this going on, is the public able to come and ride? “Yes,” he said. People are welcome to contact Smetka and he will reach out to a trainer about not only someone going out for a ride, but also regarding lessons. If someone has never been on a horse, it’s important that they are comfortable around the horse, and this will include an introduction, lunge, and lead work. “I wouldn’t say they first time out you’ll get to ride,” said Smetka, “If there is zero experience, someone most likely won’t be riding a horse at that time.”

He also pointed out that first-time riders and those with little experience are matched with a horse that is best for the rider. “If we have inexperienced riders, we will put them on horses close to retirement – the more experienced horses so they are calmer,” he said. Once cleared to get on a horse, riding lanes are available throughout the family farm.

Interestingly, Smetka doesn’t ride but does agree that riding is beneficial. “A lot of people who own horses do find caring for their horses and riding therapeutic. When boarding, a lot of horse owners are choosing a barn based on not only the level of care their horses receive but also the environment. They are either looking to make friends with other boarders to spend time with at the barn or enjoy the solitude,” he said.

Owning and boarding a horse isn’t for the faint of heart. There is a lot of work involved and it’s more than feeding and riding. Starting first thing in the morning, Smetka and his girlfriend make sure horses are fed and water is checked. Trainers are also in and out all day working with their horses. At night, another team of workers show up to feed, check hay, check water, and put the horses to bed. “It takes a team, an army, to keep it going,” Smetka noted.

One thing important to him is keeping the cost reasonable. “With our stables, you can have a horse and afford a horse. Our costs are mid-range. We are not in it for money – (Macon Creek Stables) allows them to have a horse at a reasonable cost,” he said. “It’s a whole family event – which is nice. We like it. It’s low key. It’s a family atmosphere.”

Smetka has great memories from 10 years of running Macon Creek. “Over the years we have had a number of people come and go from the barn, but many become friends. My nephews often visit the farm, and they always look forward to seeing the new horses and playing with the kids. That’s what makes it all worth it,” he said.

Macon Creek Stables

8400 Hoagland Hwy, Britton  517-376-1767