Our Story

Nick, Kost and Jenny Karazissis have been welcoming riders of all ages and abilities to share their love for horses and competition since 1971.  We are, first and foremost, a family barn.  People who rode with us as children bring their own kids to ride here; clients stay for years; generations of families ride together.  Friendships made here last long after our riders go off to college and raise families of their own.

Far West Farms (FWF) has been a leader in the sport longer than almost any other establishment.  We’ve proven over and over that there’s no substitute for experience and dedication.  Our focus on building a partnership between horse and rider that is based on communication and understanding has brought us a high level of success in the show ring, year after year.

At the same time, FWF is about so much more than winning.  The barn is home to a lot of young people, and you can feel the energized, friendly atmosphere as soon as you walk through the breezeway. Our riders are supportive of one another and enjoy parties and barbecues together.  They develop strong connections and look forward to coming to the barn to meet friends.  For many, the barn provides a steady refuge amid the chaos of adolescence and young adulthood.  It is a safe, positive environment that brings out the best in each student.

Nick believes in the saying “the outside of a horse is good for the inside of a man.”  A horse is a wonderful teacher of responsibility, discipline and many of the other lessons needed for success in life.

As one of our young riders put it, “If you have a horse, it’s your responsibility.  You don’t stay out late on weekends if you have a lesson in the morning.  You’re here everyday to ride.”

At FWF, everyone matters, and the priorities are: healthy horses, happy people, educated riders, and kids learning life lessons.  Then we think about winning.