Conversations with Lila Corey

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lila Corey

Hi Lila, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I have been teaching horse back riding for over 35 years. Took a clinic in Mounted archery – my ancestors are Cherokee and always wanted to ride and shoot bows. When my students saw the targets in my arena, they wanted o learn what I was learning. So I hired a MA3 mounted archery instructor to come and give us a clinic. Then we practiced and went to Tennessee for a small competition and were hooked. Over the last 7 years I’ve had a team of 3 plus me competing in the sport.
What we like about Mounted archery is the friendliness and helpful atmosphere of the sport. Another great thing is any breed of horse is welcome. Everyone roots for each other. One of my past students Naomi Evans has reached a National ranking of #15, Dulaney Goodwin reached a youth ranking of #6 and my granddaughter Vanessa Wilson has reached her youth ranking of #7.
It has been a wonderful adventure teaching these girls. The only one left is Vanessa Wilson of the Caballera Farm Mounted Archers.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There are always challenges to any sport but everyone in MA3 has been very helpful. Learning the rules of the sport, traveling with horses and students can be a challenge at times and now my age is the biggest hold back for me.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I have been a hairdresser for 56 years. However I have taught horseback riding for over 35. I specialize in gaited horses, mostly Tennessee Walking Horses. I use natural horsemanship skills in my teaching. This has also proven very helpful with mounted archery. I’ve also been in charge of a gaited horse flag team for years – mostly youth riders. What I am most proud of is helping young and old horseback riders become confident and competent riders and horsemen/ horsewomen.

So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
Professionally, that my students will remember that even though I was/am tough, it was for the reason to keep them safe and enjoying the sport for years to come. I hope I’ve given them courage, skills, confidence and the love of horses to last the rest of their lives.

Pricing:

• $70/ hr lessons

Contact Info:

• Facebook: Caballera farm