Apex Riding Academy

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Apex Riding Academy Located in Scottsdale at Daniel Training Center, Apex Riding Academy offers lessons for youth/adult riders of all levels.

In all that we do at Apex Riding Academy, we lead with a focus on growing skills in horsemanship and creating riding progress. As a division of Daniel Training Center, our private, first-class facility was beautifully designed to meet the needs of every learner -- and our nationally trained staff is here to create an atmosphere that reflects this. Whether you’re beginning your riding journey or tr

aining to reach a Regional or National title, our lessons and instructor expertise are your best resource for proud results. Ultimately, we’re here to offer new opportunities to learners of all skill levels. Visit http://www.apexridingacademy.com to learn more about our many offerings.

Upcoming Events at Apex Riding AcademyWe're heading into a busy and exciting fall season! Mark your calendars:• Silver S...
19/08/2025

Upcoming Events at Apex Riding Academy
We're heading into a busy and exciting fall season! Mark your calendars:

• Silver Stirrup Tournament – September 21
Sign-ups are now open. Riders, secure your spot today.

• Academy Competition – October 4
Academy riders, be sure your application and paperwork are finalized to participate.

• Silver Stirrup Tournament – October 11
Registration opens later this month. Stay tuned for details.

If you haven’t completed your Academy application, now is the time to follow up. We're looking forward to a strong season ahead!

Friendly Reminder to All Apex ClientsFor the safety of everyone at the barn, please slow down when driving through the d...
19/08/2025

Friendly Reminder to All Apex Clients
For the safety of everyone at the barn, please slow down when driving through the driveway and observe the stop sign.

There are often young children, dogs, and horses in the blind spot around the corner. Your attention and caution help keep our community safe and respectful for all.

Thank you for being mindful and helping us maintain a safe environment at Apex.

August Heat Policy ReminderAs school resumes, all lessons at Apex Riding Academy shift to afternoon hours. While this Au...
04/08/2025

August Heat Policy Reminder

As school resumes, all lessons at Apex Riding Academy shift to afternoon hours. While this August is cooler than last year, it’s still important to come prepared for the heat. Riders should bring water bottles, wear sunscreen, and consider using a cooling towel. Some lessons will take place in the round pen, which has fans and misters, but not all lessons will be held there due to instructor schedules.

New for August: One Heat Rollover Day

If you feel the weather will be too hot for your scheduled lesson, you may use one rollover day this month. Here's how it works:

You must email the office the day before your scheduled ride to request a heat rollover.

You will receive a credit on next month’s billing (e.g., if you have 4 lessons scheduled for September, you’ll only be charged for 3).
No makeup lessons will be scheduled for heat rollover days.

Please note:
This rollover is only valid with advanced notice—not if you arrive and choose to stop mid-lesson.

Standard cancellations for illness or other conflicts may still be rescheduled as usual using our online system and are not included in ths rollover program.

Let’s ride smart and stay safe in the summer heat.

🌟 Want More Information on theAcademy Team? Dear Apex Riders and Families,We’re excited to announce that we are now acce...
30/07/2025

🌟 Want More Information on the
Academy Team?

Dear Apex Riders and Families,

We’re excited to announce that we are now accepting interest for the 2025 Apex Academy Team. If you or your rider is ready to take the next step in their horsemanship journey, now is the time to consider joining this focused and rewarding program.

What is the Apex Academy Team?
The Apex Academy Team is designed for riders who are interested in developing their skills further and participating in competitions as part of a structured team environment. The program includes a wide range of class levels—from beginner on-the-line classes for riders 10 and under, to beginner and intermediate levels.

If you’re unfamiliar with the Academy Team and what it entails, we encourage you to read more about it on our website under Services.

Are You Eligible?
Most riders are eligible to join the team after a formal evaluation. At a minimum, all applicants must be able to walk and trot independently, with control and correct form. This ensures that riders are ready to participate safely and productively in team training and competition. In addition we offer On-The-Line for beginner beginers under 10 (this offers a instructor to help guide the riders)

Important Requirements:
Joining the Apex Academy Team is a commitment and comes with several expectations, including:

🍎 Attendance at a designated number of Silver Stirrup Tournaments
🍏 Participation in Apex Academy shows
🍎 Purchase of a team uniform and gear
🍏 2 Lessons per week
🍎 Financial obligations associated with showing and participation

All of these details, along with schedules, rules, and expectations, will be outlined in our Academy
Team Introduction Packet.

Interested? Here’s What to Do:
If you’re considering joining or just want more information, please let us know by next week. Once we receive your expression of interest, we will send you the full introduction packet so you can review all requirements and determine if the team is the right fit.

We’re looking forward to another strong season with the Apex Academy Team—and we hope to see many of you join us.

Always fun to give mom a ride
21/07/2025

Always fun to give mom a ride

Watch the DTC Riders Compete at Nationals – From Home!Our Daniel Training Center performance riders are headed out of st...
15/07/2025

Watch the DTC Riders Compete at Nationals – From Home!

Our Daniel Training Center performance riders are headed out of state to compete at Nationals, and we’d love for everyone back home to tune in and cheer them on from afar!

The show runs for 10 days starting this Friday, and you can watch every ride through the official livestream. There is a cost to access the feed, but it gives you full coverage of the entire event.

Here’s the link to get yourself set up with an account so you're ready to go:
https://aha.equinenetwork.video/tabs/home

We’ll also post our show schedule below as soon as it’s updated by the horse show organizers so you can follow along and support all your favorite riders from our barn.

Thanks for being part of the DTC family and cheering us on from home!

Join us for a fun-filled morning at the farm! Kids will enjoy horse-themed scavenger hunts, test their equestrian knowle...
28/06/2025

Join us for a fun-filled morning at the farm! Kids will enjoy horse-themed scavenger hunts, test their equestrian knowledge, and cool off with exciting water games. It’s a perfect way to spend time outdoors, make friends, and have a blast at Apex. This is a drop-off event — we’ll take care of the fun! Sign-ups are available on our website or through the Apex app.

Great deal! Order soon!!!
17/05/2025

Great deal! Order soon!!!

Partnership in Every RideA strong ride starts with a strong partnership. At Apex, that begins with the guidance of a ski...
17/04/2025

Partnership in Every Ride

A strong ride starts with a strong partnership. At Apex, that begins with the guidance of a skilled instructor and the steady presence of a trusted horse.

Whether you’re new to riding or refining your skills, we’re here to help you build confidence, connection, and control—one stride at a time.

Now Accepting Applicants: Apex Assistant ProgramApex Riding Academy is looking for dedicated students to join our Apex A...
10/04/2025

Now Accepting Applicants: Apex Assistant Program

Apex Riding Academy is looking for dedicated students to join our Apex Assistant (AA) Program.

The primary role of an Apex Assistant is to support instructors by helping riders prepare and saddle their horses for lessons. Assistants also contribute to the daily operations of the barn and participate in our Spring and Summer Horsemanship Camps, as well as Silver Stirrup Tournaments.

As an AA, students will:
🍏 Assist riders in grooming and saddling horses
🍏 Support camp activities and lesson preparation
🍏 Work closely with instructors and younger riders
🍏 Gain hands-on horsemanship experience
🍏 Earn “tokens” redeemable for lessons, tournaments, or other academy activities

Tryouts and interviews will be held for interested applicants.

🍎 Spring Hours: Monday–Thursday afternoons (approx. 2:30–6:00 PM)
🍎 Summer Hours (starting in May): Monday–Thursday mornings (6:30–11:30 AM)

To learn more or apply, please email the office.

Arizona Heat Reminder: Prepare for a Safe RideAs summer weather starts to roll in, we want to remind all our students an...
09/04/2025

Arizona Heat Reminder: Prepare for a Safe Ride

As summer weather starts to roll in, we want to remind all our students and families that staying safe and prepared for your lesson is key. While we will continue afternoon lessons until school is out, it’s important that riders arrive ready for the heat.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Hydration is critical: Riders should drink water before arriving to their lesson. Bring a full water bottle or flask to stay refreshed.

Fuel your body: Please make sure you or your child has eaten something before riding. Even short lessons are physical activity and require energy.

Dress smart: Light, breathable clothing and sun protection are a must.

We do not offer refunds for lessons cut short due to heat-related issues. Riders are expected to come prepared for warm conditions. That said, safety is always our top priority—if our instructors feel it is unsafe to ride due to the temperature, we will adjust accordingly.

We also offer:

Morning rides: Available now for those wanting to beat the heat—contact the office for availability.

Covered round pen with misters and fans

Cool barn horsemanship lessons on especially hot days

If the heat is too much and you'd like to pause your tuition until summer break, please reach out—we’re happy to discuss options. While we cannot offer refunds due to weather, we’re here to support you and ensure every rider stays safe and comfortable.

Let’s ride smart and stay cool out there!

🔹 We welcome our new Instructor 🔹Erlene Smythe is a third-generation horsewoman with deep roots in the equestrian world....
06/04/2025

🔹 We welcome our new Instructor 🔹

Erlene Smythe is a third-generation horsewoman with deep roots in the equestrian world. Originally from New Mexico, she has expanded her expertise across the country, training with Olympic dressage coaches, Hall of Fame Morgan and Saddlebred trainers. Erlene has developed and coached numerous national and world champion horses and riders, working with both adults and junior exhibitors across all disciplines, including hunt seat, saddle seat, western, driving, and equitation. As a Large “R” international judge, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a keen eye for horsemanship to every lesson.
Erlene is passionate about teaching and committed to helping riders of all levels develop their skills, build confidence, and create lasting partnerships with their horses. Her expertise, dedication, and enthusiasm make her an invaluable addition to the Apex Riding Academy team.

We are super excited!

Address

6055 E Dynamite Blvd

85331

Opening Hours

Monday 08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday 08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday 08:00 - 17:00
Thursday 08:00 - 17:00
Friday 08:00 - 17:00
Saturday 08:00 - 17:00
Sunday 09:00 - 12:00

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Our Story

Apex Riding Academy, a division of Daniel Training Center, is located in Scottsdale, AZ. We offer riding instruction to all levels of riders on our beautiful, talented Arabian and Half-Arabian horses. We specialize in the English and Hunter riding disciplines and have coached numerous riders to Regional and National titles. Whether you wish to experience a horse for the first time or polish your skills for competition, our riding instructors can help you reach and exceed your goals. Please visit http://www.apexridingacademy.com to learn more about our opportunities.