Jamaica Bay Riding Academy
Family-owned Equestrian Facility Since 1972
About Us
DUE TO UNCERTAIN TIMES, PLEASE CONTACT JBRA
TO FOLLOW COVID GUIDELINES
Jamaica Bay Riding Academy is a family-owned equestrian facility since 1972. We offer some of the best horseback riding on the east coast. We are located in a private wildlife preserve, this park encompasses over 400 acres of manicured wooded trails and three miles of beachfront riding specifically designated for horse enthusiasts.
Jamaica Bay is a full-service boarding facility and additionally offers a vast variety of guided instructional rides, horseback riding lessons, horse leasing, horse shows, summer camps, therapeutic riding, hunter paces, and more. Whether you are just becoming interested in horseback riding or have been an experienced rider for years, Jamaica Bay has something for everyone.
Some of our amenities are a 160’ x 325’ outdoor jumping arena, and a heated and air conditioned lounge with a view of our 200’ x 100’ indoor riding arena. We also offer an intermediate cross country course, an Olympic size dressage arena, 400 acres of beaches and trails, and a full tack and apparel shop. We are an authorized dealer for Ariat, DerDau, Charles Owen, Collegiate, Weatherbeeta, HDR, Simco, IRH, Vogel, and much more. We take great pride in our facilities and it is our goal to serve our customers the best way possible. Contact us if you’re looking for great horseback riding in NY.
Hours Of Operations For The General Public
Mons/Weds/Fri: 10:00am - 4:00pm
Tues/Thurs: 10:00am - 8:00pm (by appt only)
5:00/6:00/7:00 pm is by appointment only,pre-paid
Sat/Sun/Holidays: 9:00am - 4:00pm
Boarders/Private Owners
Mon/Weds/Fri: 7:00am - 6:00pm
Tues/Thurs: 7:00am - 10:00pm
Sat/Sun/Holidays: 7:00am - 6:00pm
We are closed for the following holidays:
-New Year's Day
-Easter Sunday
-July 4th
-Thanksgiving Day
-Christmas Day
-For more information you can call us at:
*CPR COURSES AVAILABLE AT JBRA!*
GUIDED INSTRUCTIONAL RIDES "Exclusively offered by Jamaica Bay Outdoor Tours" (Highly recommended ride)* 13 years and older.
Take advantage of some of the most scenic horseback riding New York has to offer. A leisurely pleasure ride through our beautiful wooded trails with breathtaking views of our private beaches.
GROUP TRAIL RIDES- Jamaica Bay Outdoor Tours offers group rides for the general public, and are available 7 days a week. Between the hours of 10:00am-4:00pm $90.00 per person. FIRST COME FIRST SERVE, NO APPOINTMENTS, MINIMUM OF 2 PEOPLE.
PRIVATE GUIDED RIDES- Offered by Jamaica Bay Outdoor Tours, are also available 7 days a week. A minimum of 2 people required, more than 4 people can be split into two groups. PRE PAID, BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. (Saturdays,Sundays,Holidays & Evenings $140.00 per person)
EVENING RIDES are available by appointment only Tuesday and Thursday from 5:00-7:00 pm. Pre-paid $140.00 per person (minimum 2 people)
Proper attire is required (Example: ALLOWED: Jeans, Leggings, or any other long pants, close toe shoes such as sneakers and boots. NOT ALLOWED: Flip Flops, Sandals, Shorts) Bring bug repellent during the summer season. (Helmets are mandatory). *WEIGHT LIMIT FOR ALL RIDES IS 240 LBS*
Pony Rides - 12 years and younger
Have your child walk on one of our ponies handled by our staff for the great price of $25 for 5 laps in the outdoor corral. The child must be 12 years of age or younger. For children 4 years and older, lessons are recommended. Proper attire including helmets are required. (Example: ALLOWED: Jeans, Leggings, or any other long pants, close toe shoes such as sneakers and boots. NOT ALLOWED: Flip Flops, Sandals, Shorts) We recommend bringing bug repellent during the summer season.
Membership/Leasing - Short/Long term leasing
Members of the Jamaica Bay Riding Academy have the option to lease a horse to ride at their leisure. Certification is mandatory (Inquire with management).
Lessons: By Appointment Only
If you’re interested in horseback riding in NY, Jamaica Bay Riding Academy offers professional instructors for every level and discipline. We offer expert horseback riding lessons for children and adults of all levels. For beginners, we have a selection of safe school horses and ponies. Our advanced riders compete at horse shows throughout the year. Whether your aspiration is to compete on the "A" circuit or the local schooling shows, our trainers will consult with you and evaluate your riding to determine the best program to bring out the full potential of your riding experience. Proper attire is required (Example: ALLOWED: breeches, jeans, leggings, or any other long pants, close toe shoes such as sneakers and boots. NOT ALLOWED: (Flip Flops, Sandals, Shorts) Bug repellent during the summer season is recommended. (Helmets are required). Click here for the our Riding Academy Standards and Guidelines.
Summer Camp Registration Starts in March !!
Birthday Parties – 12 years old and under
•Minimum of 12 children.
•Pony rides are approximately 45 minutes (4 ponies to 12 children ratio)
•Total party time is 1 ½ hours.
•Hamburgers, hot dogs, or pizza with French fries and soda.
•No noise making toys please!
•Food and beverages are available for all guests (NO OUTSIDE FOOD PLEASE)
Birthday Parties – 13-16 years old
•Minimum of 12 children
•30 minute guided instructional ride through the preserve.
•Total party time is 1 ½ hours.
•Hamburgers, hot dogs, or pizza with French fries and soda.
•No noise making toys please!
Jamaica Bay is a full service boarding facility, offering many different types of service to fit your individual needs. All of our stalls have an automatic drinkers and the stalls are cleaned thoroughly twice per day. Horses staying at our facility can be fed between 4 and 5 times per day. Individual turnout is available in 10 large paddocks.
The daily care that can be provided at our boarding facility consists of grooming, sheets or blankets put on and taken off as needed. Laundry services are also available upon request and any other equipment may be stored in a personal locker available at our facility. Nutritional supplements and/or medicine is administered as necessary. Our boarding services provide 2 in-house farriers, 2 veterinarians on 24 hour call, and daily on site management.
All of the health care records of the horses in our facility are carefully maintained. For the safety of all horses, a mandatory health program is administered by the house veterinarian, including dietary recommendations, worming, general health maintenance, as well as spring and fall inoculations. In addition, your horse can be exercised and/or lunged by our professional staff any day of the week as requested. Jamaica Bay will provide customized training for your horse based on the horse's experience, abilities, and your goals as a team.
At Jamaica Bay Riding Academy horseback riding in NY, our utmost goal is to keep the horses happy and healthy while catering to the needs of our valued clients. Contact us today to find out more about the best boarding and horseback riding New York has to offer.
Boarding Services are also available such as:
-
Equine Show Preparation
-
Full body clip
-
Veterinary medical treatment follow-up
-
Rehabilitation program
-
Invitational riding clinics
-
Hunter Paces
-
BBQ Rides
-
Christmas Parties
-
Horse Shows
-
Dinner Dances
-
Veterinary Clinics
-
Lay-ups
-
Shipping Services
Summer Camp
For a fun filled summer of excitement, Jamaica Bay's Summer Camp program provides a safe enjoyable experience for both boys and girls from the ages of 7 to the age of 15. Our daily activities include interacting with horses which promotes important values, daily riding instruction which builds confidence in the rider as well in the horses, daily horse care which develops compassion for horses, grooming and tacking the horses to build responsibility and respect for the art of horsemanship, arts and crafts, and much more. In addition, full time students (Monday - Friday full day Sessions for 4 consecutive weeks) will have the opportunity to obtain certification for instruction utilizing the curriculum of the United States Pony Club (USPC).
Summer camp consists of daily lessons, beach riding, arts, crafts, and animal care. Our Camp meets Monday – Friday. Summer camp starts June 20th, 2022 and ends September 2nd,2022. Sessions are as follows:
Session 1: 8:30am – 5:30pm
Session 2: 10:00am – 3:00pm
Session 3: 8:30am – 3:00pm
Session 4: 10:00am – 5:30pm
Extended hours can be arranged. Daily lunches are included for all sessions. Riders must have 5 hrs of independent riding lessons prior to camp each season at our facility. Full summer price discounts can be arranged. Children are required to purchase horseback riding attire; boots, approved helmet, ½ chaps, gloves, breeches or jeans! Campers will be given a 15% discount in the tack shop when purchasing complete apparel package.
Horseback Riding Day Trips for NY/NJ/CT School Groups and Day Camp Specials
Here is a unique experience for all Summer Day Camps in the NY/NJ/CT area. Jamaica Bay offers a safe enjoyable experience for both boys and girls for all ages. Our daily activities include Pony Rides, Guided Instructional Rides, Nature Walks, Horsemanship care instruction, and much more.
Certified Therapeutic Riding
Seaside 4 Therapeutic Riding was developed for individuals with special needs. With the help of skilled horses, a team of certified instructors and volunteers, students are taught the foundations of equine behavior. Riders can experience increased balance, muscle control and strength while working in a positive atmosphere. Please contact www.s4tr.org for further information or call
Ask for Gerry Shoemaker – Program Director (646)831-6256
Trainers
Maria Danza Castellano
Hunter/Jumper/Equitation
Instructor
Emerging from a strong lineage of horsemen, Maria’s admiration for the sport began at a very young age. She brings a wealth of experience to her role as a Hunter/Jumper and Equitation trainer. She has over 20 years of experience around horses and the sport, making her an accommodating and essential asset to Jamaica Bay Riding Academy.
Maria is our lesson program manager, as well as one of our head trainers for clients competing at the beginner, amateur and junior riding level. Her students have successfully shown at quality recognized horse shows throughout the tri-state area. Her passion is schooling horses of all ages, and levels. Maria aids clients in the process of buying and selling horses. Maria's students have qualified for IEA and AEL National Finals. Her students have also received scholarships from colleges to compete at the collegiate level.
Maria is a graduate student of Molloy College. Maria has competed and shown successfully in United States Equestrian Federation Horse Shows ranging from “C” to “AA” rated shows since the age of 5.When Maria was in High School, she successfully competed in the Interscholastic Equestrian Association on the Metropolitan Equestrian Team.
Horses are Maria’s passion. Her strong determination, patience, consistency, and reliability for the sport has a major influence on her students, encouraging them to achieve their goals and continuing to love and respect the sport. Maria prides herself in carrying on her family’s tradition to keep the horse industry flourishing.
Serafino Danza
Hunter Jumper/Dressage Instructor
Serafino brings an enormous amount of knowledge to Jamaica Bay Riding Academy.
Having a Bachelors of Science degree in Biology from Rutgers University, coupled with over 20 years of experience around horses; we are proud to introduce Serafino as our newest trainer here at Jamaica Bay Riding Academy. Just prior to taking this position, Serafino worked as a Veterinary Technician at New England Equine Practice where he was not only exposed to state of the art medical technology, but also highly involved in many surgeries, diagnostic differentials, surgery prep and post care, and much more.
Along with his medical knowledge of the horse, Serafino has also spent his life in the saddle. Starting at a young age of 3 years old he has had many years to develop into the rider he is today. Serafino has competed in multiple disciplines over the 20+ years in the saddle, showing in multiple levels including but not limited to: hunter/jumpers, equitation, dressage, reining, western pleasure etc.. and specializes in working and training the younger, green horses and bringing them up the levels.
Jake P.
Equitation Instructor
Jake started riding as young as two years old at his family’s riding facility. At an early age he discovered his passion for competition and began a life of showing in the Equitation, Hunter and Jumper rings. In his teen years he lived and worked at Winterbrook Farms in Lisbon CT.
Winterbrook was a working breeding farm where under his trainer Edna Pobuda honed his craft as a rider and trainer. Upon returning to NY Jake stepped away from the horse community and worked in the Athletics Dept. at Brooklyn Friends School where he coached multiple sports for over 15 years.
Having worked with children for so many years Jake has developed a passion for teaching and communicating concepts to expedite the growth and confidence of young and adult riders of all skill levels. Ever the competitor he relishes the opportunity to work with riders who have an eye on the competitive component of horseback riding and looks forward to helping competitors prepare for the show ring.
Kelly Kern
Equitation Instructor
As a young girl,Kelly got her start at a family farm in Cairo New York. Kelly is a graduate of the Mary Louis Academy in Queens New York. From there she continued her education studying at Stony Brook College in Long Island. Kern has been a member of the Jamaica Bay community since 2014. Her dedication to the horse industry has proven successful from working with our therapeutic program, animal maintenance, training young horses and flourishing in the show ring. Her riding skills have been achieved by working with professionals such as Chris Mitchell, and Michael Page. Kellys calm approach with her clients make them feel comfortable, confident and relaxed.
Jamaica Bay Riding Teams
The Jamaica Bay Riding team has been competing successfully throughout the region for over decade. Jamaica Bay Riding team was designed for students who would like to further their professional skills in a competitive team setting. Our teams compete with in the Athletic Equestrian League (AEL) and the Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) which holds competitions all throughout the region. Our goal is to develop, train, and educate young competitors whom wish to become professional equestrians and prepare them for intercollegiate equestrian sports. These teams are a steppingstone for young equestrian athletes.
Boy/Girl Scouts Merit Badge Curriculum
Jamaica Bay Riding Academy is a registered merit badge facility for the Boy/Girl Scouts of America. In addition to learning how to safely ride and care for horses, Boy/Girl Scouts can now earn their Horsemanship Merit Badge at Jamaica Bay Riding Academy. Scouts who earn this merit badge will gain an understanding of the instincts and behaviors of horses, humane and effective methods for training horses, and much more. We also have a full service restaurant on premises for your enjoyment. No outside food is permitted.
Special Events & Photography
Jamaica Bay Riding Academy offers to hold special events including weddings, birthday parties, corporate events, etc. We can provide you with photographers to capture footage of the moments shared right here at our facilities. Jamaica Bay Riding Academy has a unique service for it's customers where we can help you with video creation/editing for movies,television and well as photography services for magazines. To schedule your next event or to have us answer any questions or concerns, please contact us.
Packages & Pricing
GUIDED INSTRUCTIONAL RIDE (APPROX. 45 MINUTES)
$90.00 PP (Evening rides $140.00 PP, PRE-PAID,BY APPOINTMENT ONLY )
13 YEARS OR OLDER (MINIMUM OF 2 PEOPLE, MORE THAN 4 PEOPLE CAN BE SPLIT INTO 2 GROUPS )
PRIVATE GUIDED RIDES
$120.00 PP MONDAY-FRIDAY, WEEKENDS/HOLIDAYS/EVENINGS $140.00 PP
PRE PAID BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
13 YEARS OR OLDER, MINIMUM OF 2 PEOPLE
(ALL PRE-PAID APPOINTMENTS ARE NON REFUNDABLE)
PONY RIDES (5 LAPS)
$20.00 PP
12 YEARS AND YOUNGER
PRIVATE LESSONS (APPROX.50 MINUTES)
$110.00
4 YEARS OLD AND UP
PRIVATE LESSONS (ADULT) (APPROX.25 MINUTES)
$80.00
13 YEARS AND OLDER
PRIVATE LESSONS (CHILD) (APPROX.25 MINUTES)
$70.00
UP TO THE AGE OF 12
Lesson Packages
10 LESSON PACKAGE
11TH LESSON FREE (APPROX. 50 MINUTES)
$1100.00 PP
ALL AGES
10 LESSON PACKAGE
11TH LESSON FREE (APPROX. 25 MINUTES)
$800.00 PP
13 YEARS AND OLDER
10 LESSON PACKAGE
11TH LESSON FREE (APPROX. 25 MINUTES)
$700.00 PP
12 YEARS AND UNDER
15 LESSON FAMILY PACKAGE
(MIN. OF 2 RIDERS PER FAMILY)
2 ADDITIONAL LESSONS FREE
(APPROX. 50 MINUTES)
$1650.00 PP
ALL AGES
(TOTAL OF 17 LESSONS)
15 LESSON FAMILY PACKAGE
(MIN. OF 2 RIDERS PER FAMILY)
2 ADDITIONAL LESSONS FREE
(APPROX. 25 MINUTES)
$1,200 $1,050
(ADULT)13 YEARS & OLDER - (CHILD)12 YEARS & YOUNGER
(TOTAL OF 17 LESSONS)
MEMBERS/SHORT TERM/LONG TERM LEASING
INQUIRE WITH MANAGEMENT
CERTIFICATION IS MANDATORY
BIRTHDAY PARTIES (up to age 12) (APPROX. 1 1/2 HOURS)
$55.00 PP
MINIMUM OF 12 CHILDREN
DEPOSIT REQ. (+TAX & GRATUITY)
BIRTHDAY PARTIES (age 13-16) (1 1/2 HOURS)
$70.00 PP
13 YEARS OLD AND UP, MINIMUM OF 12
DEPOSIT REQ. (+TAX & GRATUITY)
**Custom Birthday Packages can be designed for less than 12 children**
Summer Camp 2023
SUMMER CAMP (SESSION 1) 8:30AM- 5:30PM
(BREAKFAST & LUNCH INCL.)
$875.00 PP
WEEKLY, FULL SUMMER SESSION PACKAGES
CAN BE ARRANGED
SUMMER CAMP (SESSION 2) 10:00AM - 3:00PM
(LUNCH INCL.)
$625.00 PP
WEEKLY, FULL SUMMER SESSION PACKAGES
CAN BE ARRANGED
SUMMER CAMP (SESSION 3) 8:30AM - 3:00PM
(BREAKFAST & LUNCH INCL.)
$750.00 PP
WEEKLY, FULL SUMMER SESSION PACKAGES
CAN BE ARRANGED
SUMMER CAMP (SESSION 4) 10:00AM - 5:30PM
(LUNCH INCL.)
$775.00 PP
WEEKLY, FULL SUMMER SESSION PACKAGES
CAN BE ARRANGED
SCHOOL/DAY CAMP SPECIALS (AGES 4-12)
$25.00 PP (PLUS TAX & GRATUITY)
WEEKDAY BOOKINGS ONLY - MINIMUM OF 15 STUDENTS
PONY RIDES
TOUR OF FACILITIES
HORSE CARE INTRODUCTION
A TOTAL OF APPROX. 1 1/2 HOURS OF ADVENTURE
SCHOOL/DAY CAMP SPECIALS (AGES 13 YEARS & OLDER)
$55.00 PP (PLUS TAX & GRATUITY)
WEEKDAY BOOKINGS ONLY - MINIMUM OF 15 STUDENTS
30 MINUTE TRAIL RIDE ON PRESERVE
TOUR OF FACILITIES
HORSE CARE INTRODUCTION
A TOTAL OF APPROX.1 1/2 HOURS OF ADVENTURE
BOY/GIRL SCOUTS BADGE ACCOMMODATIONS
AGES 4-12
$35.00 PP PLUS TAXES AND GRATUITIES
MINIMUM OF 12 CHILDREN
AGES 13 AND UP
$55.00 PP PLUS TAXES AND GRATUITIES
MINIMUM OF 12 CHILDREN
WEDDING/PHOTO-VIDEO SHOOT
$ 325.00 P/ HORSE - 1 HOUR
OR
$175.00 P/ HORSE - 1/2 HR TRAILS ONLY
OR
$400 P/ HORSE - BOTH BEACH & TRAIL COMBINED - 1 1/2 HOURS
WEEKDAYS ONLY
PRE-PAID BY APPOINTMENT
ENGAGEMENT/PROPOSAL
$325.00- 45 MIN
INCLUDES 2 HORSES
WEEKDAYS ONLY
PRE-PAID BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
** PRICES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE **
CONTACT & DIRECTIONS
7000 Shore Parkway
Brooklyn, New York 11234
Tel:
Public Transportation:
Option 1: Take the B or Q Train to Sheepshead Bay Station. Take a 5 minute taxi ride onto the Belt Parkway East to the Riding Academy exit.
Option 2: Take the L train to the Rockaway Parkway Station. Take a five minute taxi ride onto the Belt Parkway West, exit at 11s. Get back onto the Belt Parkway heading east, exit at the Riding Academy.
By Car:
GPS Directions: JAMAICA BAY RIDING ACADEMY, BROOKLYN, NY 11234
From Manhattan: Take the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel and continue eastbound towards the belt parkway and exit at the Riding Academy.
From Staten Island: Take the Verrazano Bridge, continue eastbound onto the belt parkway, and exit at the Riding Academy.
From Long Island: Take Southern State to the belt parkway, exit at 11S, get back onto the Belt Parkway heading east, and exit at the Riding Academy.
Look for the horse statue to find our entrance area.