About Us

Esther Noyen Barrandon, owner, trainer, program director, was born and
raised in The Netherlands, moved to the United States with her family
and began riding at the age of 12. She earned a degree in Equine Science
from Johnson & Wales University. Esther traveled extensively on the
international show jumping circuit for 10 years, working with some of the
worlds top equestrians. From 1994 - 2005 she was manager of Riverdale
Equestrian Center in New York and director of its riding programs for
children. She continues to coach students of all levels and train horses for
show-jumping and dressage.

Gilles Barrandon, owner,manager & trainer, was born and raised in Paris,
France. In 1985 he received his French Equestrian Federation teaching
and competition license, Eperon d’Argent. He holds Bachelor degrees in
German and English from La Sorbonne, Paris and a BA in Japanese from
Paris Dauphine. Gilles moved to New York in 1995, attending Fordham
University where he earned an MBA in marketing. From 1997 - 2005 he
co-managed Riverdale Equestrian Center with his wife, Esther, and
trained students for show-jumping. He continues to train and compete
himself.

Our counselors are highly qualified young adults; experienced with
children and horse safety. They truly enjoy working with children and are
carefully selected for their personal qualities and high moral values.