Testimonials



I started riding as a senior in high school, when I could afford the lessons on my own, and since I went out of state for college, I really could only ride during the summers. Each summer I was home for college I would find a new instructor because I was never completely happy with the one I had the year before. That is until I met Kat three years ago (maybe four; time flies when you are having fun)!

Kat works one-on-one with each student taking only private lessons. Having taken mostly group lessons before, I had a lot of unchecked bad habits to unlearn! She worked patiently with me undoing my bad habits. She also listened to my personal goals then worked with me to reach them and gently pushed me beyond them. She is not interested in the number of ribbons her students take home, the saddle they ride in, or the brand boots he/she wears. She is only interested in making each student a more confident rider. Her horses are not push-button, they have a spirit and personality. There is no faking it at Horsefleet! If you are not a confident rider going into Horsefleet, you will be when you leave (if you ever do).

As my time in Florida comes to an end, I find myself not only leaving behind a great riding instructor, but a close friend. Kat goes beyond being a riding instructor; she truly cares about each of her students, young and old and we all have become a family. Like the best instructors, for Kat, teaching is not just an income it is a passion. Kat teaches from the heart and that is hard to come by! There are many good instructors out there; Kat is one of the rare GREAT ones!

Vanessa Miller



I came to Kat Wiggins as a "senior citizen" student; I'd ridden regularly during high school and college, but for the past thirty years I've had time for occasional trail rides only. With retirement came the opportunity to resume a life-long love affair with horses and with riding.

Kat welcomed me not as a "senior," but as a person wanting to learn. She met me at my level, empathized with my insecurities, helped me to set goals, and gently and wisely kept raising the bar. Kat is a gifted instructor!

If you think you're too old to begin or resume riding lessons, think again. Being with Kat at Horsefleet Academy has opened up a brand new world to me. In fact, just yesterday I purchased my very own dressage saddle!

Suzanne Price



As an adult beginner student, I have quickly learned that riding is not as simple as just sitting on the back of a horse. With Kat's instruction, I feel confident that I am learning the proper techniques of horseback riding.

She is teaching me not only the correct body alignment and balance, but the correct body language so that the horse understands what I am asking it do without voice commands. I also enjoy the relaxed atmosphere during my lessons. That has made it a fun and leisurely activity to do.

I would highly recommend Horsefleet Academy.

Jade Eaves



Ms. Kat Wiggins is truly a gifted rider and instructor. With her patience and understanding I have overcome my fear of riding. I had a bad experience several years ago at another farm and with her help and patience riding has become an enjoyable experience again.

Whether you are a beginner or "getting back in the saddle" Kat will help you acheive your goals. I highly recommend Horsefleet Academy to anyone who has a desire to learn to ride.

Shelley Matthews



Mrs. Kathy [Kat] Wiggins is an amazing equine instructor. Her ability to adapt each lesson to the rider’s experience and confidence level makes her one of a kind.

Whether she is coaching an experienced rider or an apprehensive first timer, she is sure to bring him/her to the next level and beyond. Her experience and creativity combined with patience and understanding is second to none.

Each lesson is provided on a one-on-one basis and is tailored to the rider’s ability. Each rider gets maximum attention and learns at his/her own pace.

Riders who have experienced unpleasant situations can overcome their fear, learn to be in control and enjoy once again the pleasures of riding.

Mrs. Kathy [Kat] Wiggins is truly gifted in the art of equine tutoring.

Sincerely,
Brigitte McDermott



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