Address: 30470 Camp Parkway, Courtland

Phone number: 569-7530

Operating Hours: The barn office is open from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Mon-Sat.

The equestrian facilities are open to boarders and students from 7 a.m. until 9 p.m. seven days a week. Barn tours are available during office hours; just call in advance.

E-mail address: gaylecr@mindspring.com

Nature of Business: River Birch Farm is a full-service equestrian facility offering boarding, riding lessons, training, shows, camps and more.

We have stalls available in the boarder barn and school horses for lessons.

We offer private and group

instruction in hunter seat equitation for all ages and riding abilities from beginner to advanced.

We host a monthly series of Virginia Horse Shows Association associate-rated horse shows which the public is invited to attend at no charge.

Our horse camps include horseback riding, instructions in horse care, vet/farrier demonstrations, arts/crafts/games and more.

Principle owner/manager and title: Ann Gayle, owner/manager; Carla Francis (pictured), trainer/instructor.

Year Founded: 2007

Number of employees: 3

How’s business: Growing every day

One thing you wish everyone knew about your business: Horseback riding is for adults, too!

No matter your age or level of experience, from beginner to advanced, we can tailor a riding program to fit your specific needs, ranging from recreational/fun riding to serious training for competition.

Something you offer that a customer won’t find elsewhere: We offer a wide range of equestrian services — there is no other comparable facility in the area.

Advice to young entrepreneurs: Figure out what you like to do and are good at, then do it better than anyone else.

Your role model (in business or in life generally): My parents — they have a wonderful work ethic.

The key to a successful business is: Offer a good product or service, and back it up with excellent client care.