Sue and Scott O’Connell have taken their hobby of horseback riding from passion, through obsession, to a start-up business.
Sue, who grew up with horses in Vermont, is thrilled to escape from her daily existence as President of a successful consulting firm, to the rigors of horsemanship and farm life during nights and weekends.
Daughter Katie grew up riding and competing in local and national show circuits. Son Brandon typically prefers motorized horsepower but recently has started taking lessons.
Scott, who grew up riding horses on family vacations in upstate New York, spends time while not on horseback in courtrooms around the country trying cases for his clients. “Some believe that I shovel manure professionally and for fun!”
Scott and Sue were the managing members and owners of Fox Brook Farm in Amherst, NH. After the successful growth of the Fox Brook riding programs, they had decided to move the riding program to a new facility. In March of 2007, Mack Hill Riding Academy was established on the former site of Tempus Fugit in Amherst, NH. Scott and Sue are the owners and managing members of Mack Hill Riding Academy.
Lyz grew up riding at a local stable and taking part in their 4H program. As an adult, taking part in Mack Hill’s riding program rekindled her love for horses as her daughter Lucy became more involved in the program. She now owns three horses (one of which was bred here at Mack Hill) and enjoys showing on the AQHA circuit with Lucy and hitting the trails in the summer.
Lyz is affectionately known as our “barn mom” taking exceptional care of our lesson horses, boarders, babies and mommas, and staff. She is also our camp director and head of crafts, snacks, and fun here at Mack Hill. Chances are you have seen her spoiling our newborn babies in the spring, grooming our herd to sparkling perfection or organizing our holiday surprises. Lyz reminds us to bring our passion for horses and fun along for the ride in everything we do.
Stacy brings over 30 years of experience in the horse industry with her to Mack Hill. As a graduate of the UNH Equine program, Stacy has ridden under many top trainers in the industry, boasting an accomplished eventing, equitation, and dressage career. In more recent years, she has pursued western events, competitive mountain trail, and enjoys trail riding her horses, Sam and Echo.
As an instructor, Stacy highlights a strong foundation and safety paired with fun to bring an unparalleled experience to our riders of all ages. Her passion for the development of our students and their horsemanship abilities is apparent in every lesson she teaches. When at home, Stacy enjoys her farmstead of minis, sheep, and chickens.
