About Us

Finding Inspiration in Every Turn

Welcome to Painted Star Equestrian, where the love of horseback riding comes alive in a vibrant and inclusive community. Here, we offer an array of equestrian disciplines like gymkhana, barrel racing, rodeo events, Western riding, and peaceful trail riding, perfect for everyone from enthusiastic beginners to seasoned riders.

At Painted Star Equestrian, it's not just about riding; it's about forming lasting connections with our horses and each other. Our experienced and caring instructors are here not just to teach, but to share their passion and guide you on a journey of learning and discovery, whether you're aiming to compete or simply enjoy the ride.

Our instructors have won numerous buckles and prizes over the years, and we are always eager to share our experience and passion for riding with our students.

Our community is our heartbeat. We've created a space where riders of every age and ability can come together, support each other, and share in the joy and adventure that horseback riding brings. Our facilities cater to all your equestrian dreams, providing a safe, enjoyable, and enriching experience for every member.

Join the family at Painted Star Equestrian and let us help you write your own unique story in the saddle. We're more than just a riding school; we're a home for all who share a love for horses and the thrill of the ride. Come and be part of our equestrian adventure, where every ride is a new chapter in your journey.

Our Story

Every ride tells a story, and we're excited to share ours with you. This space is where we open up about our journey, our team's dedication, and the unique experiences we offer. Our story isn't just about horseback riding; it's about a community, a passion, and a dream realized.

Our journey began with a simple yet powerful vision: to create a place where the love for horses and the thrill of riding are accessible to everyone. From humble beginnings, we've grown into a thriving equestrian center, thanks to our team's unwavering commitment and dedication to excellence. Our core values—safety, respect, and joy in equestrian sports—have guided us every step of the way.

Meet The Team

Shannen Borges

Founder & Head Instructor

Shannen is a seasoned equestrian with an impressive 25-year riding background, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to her students. For over 15 years, she has been dedicated to teaching the art of horsemanship, instilling a love for riding in enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels.

A proud member of the California Gymkhana Association, Shannen actively competes in various events, including local rodeos, jackpots, and more. Her passion for speed is evident in her competitive spirit, as she consistently pushes the boundaries of her own riding abilities.

Originally hailing from Southern California, Shannen's equestrian journey led her to the vibrant Bay Area, where she continues to share her knowledge and passion with her community. She holds a degree in business from Cal Poly Pomona, showcasing her commitment to both her equestrian pursuits and academic achievements.

As an instructor, Shannen embodies qualities of patience, understanding, and inclusivity, recognizing that each student is on their unique journey. She believes in creating a supportive environment that allows her students to thrive in her program, fostering not only riding skills but also a deep appreciation for the bond between horse and rider. Shannen's dedication to the equestrian community is a testament to her love for horses and her commitment to shaping the next generation of skilled riders.

Kalysta P.

Head Instructor

Meet Kalysta, an equestrian enthusiast who embarked on her horseback journey at the tender age of 8. Since then, her passion for horses has only deepened, making her a dedicated and accomplished rider. Kalysta has become a familiar face in the local equestrian scene, particularly in California Gymkhana, where she competes with enthusiasm and skill.

Kalysta's commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed. Over the years, she has earned coveted buckles for her outstanding performances in various events. Recently, she achieved a significant milestone by clinching the title of AA Overall Champion Buckle for CGA District 1, showcasing her prowess and dedication to the sport.

One of Kalysta's notable achievements is the training of her horse, Blue, in all the intricate patterns of gymkhana. This accomplishment reflects not only her own skill as a rider but also her ability to form a strong bond with her equine companion.

Beyond the arena, Kalysta is passionate about sharing her knowledge and love for horses with others. As an instructor, she emphasizes clear explanation, patience, and guidance in her teaching approach. She derives immense joy from helping her students discover the joys of horsemanship, instilling in them not just riding skills but also a deep appreciation for the connection between rider and horse.

Kalysta's journey from a young rider to a decorated champion and dedicated instructor is a testament to her unwavering love for horses and her commitment to fostering a vibrant and skilled equestrian community.

Mackenzie P.

Head Instructor

Mackenzie, a dynamic individual pursuing a degree in psychology at California State University Monterey Bay, seamlessly blends her passion for horses with her academic pursuits. Her unique journey in the equestrian world began with a challenging yet rewarding experience of training a scared and abused horse.

Demonstrating extraordinary dedication and empathy, Mackenzie transformed her equine companion into a fun-loving barrel racer. This transformative journey not only showcases Mackenzie's skills as a rider and trainer but also highlights her deep understanding of the psychological aspects of horse-human relationships.

Mackenzie is a vivacious competitor, finding immense joy in the show arena. Her enthusiasm for barrel racing is infectious, making her a standout presence at events. Whether she's navigating tight turns or pushing for that extra burst of speed, Mackenzie's love for the sport radiates in every competition.

As an instructor, Mackenzie brings her high-energy and fun-loving spirit into her lessons. She thrives on creating an engaging and positive atmosphere for her students. Mackenzie's teaching philosophy revolves around the belief that learning should be enjoyable and dynamic. Her students not only develop riding skills but also cultivate a genuine passion for the sport.

Mackenzie's dual role as a psychology student and barrel racing enthusiast reflects her commitment to understanding and enhancing the bond between humans and horses. With her infectious energy and compassionate approach, Mackenzie is not just shaping skilled riders but also fostering a community that celebrates the joy and excitement of equestrian pursuits.

Brittany R.

Head Instructor

With over 30 years of experience riding and being around horses, Brittany stands as a seasoned equestrian with a wealth of knowledge and accomplishments. Her journey in the equestrian world is marked by numerous achievements, including winning buckles, setting records, and earning a spot in the elite top ten ranks.

Brittany's dedication to barrel racing has been nothing short of remarkable. Her innate talent and relentless pursuit of excellence have not only brought her victories but have also left a lasting impact on the competitive landscape. Her journey reached new heights, setting records and consistently securing a place among the elite top ten barrel racers.

After taking a break to start a family and welcome two children, Brittany found that her love for barrel racing reignited with a newfound intensity. This return to the arena was not just a continuation of her previous successes but a testament to her enduring passion for the sport.

Brittany's story is one of resilience, accomplishment, and a deep connection with horses. Her experience as a rider and competitor spans decades, and her love for barrel racing has proven to be an enduring flame. As she continues to pursue her equestrian dreams, Brittany serves as an inspiration to those who share her passion, showing that dedication and love for the sport can withstand the test of time and life's various chapters.