About

Owner and head trainer, Melissa Duven, began her riding career at the age of six. Originally from the East Coast, Melissa enjoyed great success in both the Pony, Children's Hunters, and Junior Hunters and Equitation divisions. Competing on a National level, under the tutelage of Hunter/Jumper greats: Nanci Ciesluk, Paul Valiere, and Leslie Burr-Howard, Melissa qualified for New York and Harrisburg National Horse shows several years in a row! Since then, Melissa has worked in multiple capacities for numerous show barns on the East Coast both training, showing, and selling horses before re-locating to Scottsdale, AZ where she continued her passion, working along side other top Hunter/Jumper facilities in a similar manner. It was not until moving to Tucson, AZ that she discovered there was a real need for top quality equestrian services and instruction--prompting Remington Hill Farm. Melissa and family have since happily relocated back to Scottsdale area.

With a strong emphasis on equitation and a real "eye" for what it takes to be competitive on the "A" circuit, Melissa covers all aspects of horsemanship both for the rider and horse(s)' benefit. According to Melissa, "it is not enough to be a great rider, great sportsmanship, and horsemanship are vital components as well." With this as her motto, Melissa strives to incorporate a well rounded learning environment not only for her students and horses, but also for herself. By brining in top clinicians on a bi-yearly basis, Melissa does her best to offer/share her National and International equestrian extraordinaire contacts with her group. Whether you have a horse of your own or ride one of the well-trained lesson horses, Melissa can enable you to meet the challenge of equestrian, athletic competition. When not busy showing, coaching or schooling horses, Melissa enjoys spending time with her family and dogs. Melissa also volunteers her time with the Arizona Hunter Jumper Association where she has been an active participant for three years.