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Hephzibah, Georgia
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In many ancient cultures, a person's wealth was measured in horses. In fact, the sport of horse racing is also known as "the sport of kings." Here at Painted Zia Stables, we believe the pleasure of owning a horse should not be only for the wealthy and priveleged. We strive to bring quality care in a fun and relaxed atmosphere, at an affordable price.
About Us
Dan and Myra moved to Georgia with their 3 horses, chocolate lab, and barn kitty from Colorado in 2005. It was quite the adventure, especially since Myra was seven months pregnant! We left -10°F weather and moved to 50–60°F weather. Many of the boarders at our temporary stable thought that we had discovered a living breed of woolly mammoth. I'm sure our horses were quite confused as well.
Dan and Myra met while in the Air Force. We were both members of our base military rodeo team. We participated in the Military Rodeo Cowboys Association, now known as PAFRA—the Professional Armed Forces Rodeo Association. Myra barrel raced, and Dan rode bulls and rough stock. Myra grew up on a farm that raised Thoroughbred, Quarter Horse, and Appaloosa race horses. (Yes, Appaloosa race horses!) We've slowed down a little and mostly western pleasure trail-ride. We have three paint horses that come from the Navajo Indian Reservation in New Mexico. They are tough, stocky, and have Hidalgo's wild horse stamina and spirit. Dan spent summers on his "uncle's" working cow ranch in Florida, as well as Boy Scout Camp as an Eagle Scout and adult chaperone at Philmont. When it comes to horses we've bred and raised babies; hauled all over the United States; competed; rehabilitated abused, underweight horses; and doctored some nasty wounds, founder and colic. With 30+ years of combined horse experience, we have seen and done a lot, but realize that there is always more to learn. Our diverse equestrian background has enabled us to realize our dream of owning and operating a successful boarding facility.
Even though we mainly ride western, we appreciate and welcome all disciplines of riding. Many of our boarders ride English, Saddle seat, Hunt seat, and even Fox hunt! They have been gracious enough to share their wealth of knowledge with these western cowboys! We encourage you to explore our website, and even visit our stable, to find out a little more about our place, our boarders and horses. You will see how different we really are! Happy Trails and thank you for your interest in Painted Zia Stables.
How Painted Zia Stables Got Its Name
When Myra and Dan moved to Georgia from Colorado, they wanted to bring a little Southwestern touch with them. A zia is a Native American symbol for the sun, and is on the state flag of New Mexico. Since our horses are both Navajo Indian ponies and paints, we thought Painted Zia would be a unique yet meaningful name. Even more so, because when Myra's dad owned and operated a race horse ranch, his racing silks had a zia on the back with the farm's brand in the center.