BARRHEAD – Angielee Pappas with ALP Equine holds regular horse and gymkhana clinics in Barrhead, with the next event set for April 19 at the AG barn.
“The clinics are open to everyone. It’s an opportunity to learn or practice basic horsemanship and gymkhana skills,” said Pappas. “It’s learning about the rider’s and the horse’s connection to work together.”
Pappas has been riding since she was four years old. She began training others whether they had never been on a horse or had been riding for many years. Although she has competed professionally, her passion lies in connecting people to the enjoyment of riding, meeting other horse enthusiasts, and putting the fun back into riding.
She doesn’t follow a strict agenda at her clinics, instead tailoring the content to the skills and techniques riders are interested in learning or practicing. She hopes to engage new riders who may be curious about gymkhana and encourage them to give it a try.
Gymkhana includes events like barrel racing, pole bending, and keyhole races—speed-based challenges that can be a lot of fun, said Pappas. Her focus is on teaching body control and offering tips specific to each rider’s skill level.
Pappas hopes to eventually host fun shows where everyone feels included, regardless of experience, and to attract new riders to these types of events. Her clinics also include games to keep things lighthearted while helping riders build skills.
Even those without a horse of their own can attend. Pappas has several horses available that provide a great experience for riders. She teaches participants how to understand and read their horse’s signals, helping less confident riders build the knowledge and self-assurance they need to feel safe and capable in the saddle.
For those having issues with their horses, Pappas offers guidance by evaluating the horse and coaching the rider on how to overcome challenges. Rider and horse safety is always a priority, she said, emphasizing trust, equipment use, and proper positioning.
Pappas was drawn to horses through her own challenging experiences and credits them with saving her. She hopes to share that healing power with others through her clinics.
She also offers advice for people considering purchasing a horse, helping them understand what to look for. Her compassion extends to all animals—she’s saved horses from euthanasia and provided them with a healthy, safe home. Her ranch is currently home to 20 horses, with that number growing to about 40 during riding season.
She even adopted a deaf and blind Australian Shepherd that was going to be put down, and the dog has now been enjoying life for 11 years.
Well-connected to local veterinarians, farriers, and horse specialists, Pappas is often called on to help horses in distress. With a big heart, a strong passion for horsemanship, and a desire to bring back the sense of cowboy community, she hopes her clinics remind people that riding should be first and foremost about having fun.
