What We Do
As owner and head trainer, Lara Connolly is committed to teaching students classical equitation and correct flatwork that creates effective riding over fences. Our program emphasizes the importance of putting our horses first, and we work closely with farriers and veterinarians to ensure that each horse meets his full potential as an athlete.
Testimonials
I cannot recommend Lara and Vintage Lane highly enough. After many years away from the show ring, Lara helped me return with confidence, first finding wonderful horses for me to lease and ultimately helping me find an exceptional young hunter prospect to purchase. He is absolutely flourishing under her care. What sets Lara and Vintage Lane apart is their exceptional horsemanship, meticulous organization, and genuine commitment to every horse and rider in the program. Lara oversees every aspect of the horses' care, from nutrition to veterinary and farrier care, with remarkable attention to detail. She is highly organized and proactive, keeping track of all the details involved in a busy training and showing program while making sure each horse receives individualized attention. Most importantly, the horses truly trust her--a testament to her patience, consistency, and understanding. Lara is equally talented with her clients and works beautifully with riders of all ages and at every stage, from those learning the sport to experienced competitors. She knows how to challenge and encourage each rider while building confidence and developing a strong partnership between horse and rider. Just as importantly, Vintage Lane has a warm, welcoming, and encouraging barn community. Everyone genuinely celebrates each other's progress and accomplishments, creating an atmosphere that makes coming to the barn and going to shows something to look forward to and so much fun. I feel incredibly fortunate to have found Lara and Vintage Lane. Her professionalism, knowledge, organization, and genuine care create a truly special program. She has made my return to the show ring an incredibly rewarding experience, and I would recommend Lara and Vintage Lane wholeheartedly to anyone looking for an exceptional trainer and a program where both horses and riders are genuinely valued.
Libby B
Lara not only coaches well in the saddle, whether it be eq, hunter, or jumpers, but also teaches good horsemanship- the horse is prioritized at VL! Whether that means special supplements, vet care from the efficient and excellent Starwood Equine vets, or a specific training plan for your horsey and you, Lara does it all. She hunted for the exact right horse for me with my tight budget constraints, met all of my mare's high maintenance health requirements, and has brought my OTTB and I from unable to steer to winning our .80s classes in the show ring. Like me and my unruly chestnut mare, each rider/horse pair in the VL barn is on a different path according to their specific goals and budget. There are plenty of A-rated show options to choose from as well, and Lara's great coaching means every pair is very competitive in the show ring, at whatever height!
The benefits of a smaller barn like VL are also clear in the strong barn community as well. Also, the facility at Spring Down has nice big stalls and outdoor options, great footing, and nearby trails. I really cannot recommend VL and Lara's training enough.
Isabel N.
Lara helped my find an excellent horse to purchase and has helped us develop together as a team. I appreciate that each horse in the barn is considered as an individual and that they each have a customized training plan. She has helped me safely improve my riding skills and confidence over the years and respects each rider's individual goals as well.
Kristy M.
