Cross Creek Malibu Farm is the premier destination for hunter/jumper lessons designed to elevate your skills in the competitive show ring. Whether you're refining your technique or aiming for success on USEF, USHJA, and LAHJA circuits, we provide expert coaching tailored to your needs.
Here at Cross Creek Malibu Farm, we believe every rider—and every horse—deserves a personalized approach to learning. That’s why we design our horse riding lessons to fit your unique needs, no matter your skill level. Whether you’re just starting or preparing for top-tier competition, we’ll help you succeed.
Diane Dufau, our owner and trainer for over 20 years, has a special talent for guiding riders through the pony ring and preparing them for success at all levels, even collegiate competition. Diane’s dedication and extensive experience make her an incredible mentor for those just beginning their riding journey or mastering essential skills.
Nick Karazissis Jr., a top Hunter/Jumper trainer in the Los Angeles area, brings a wealth of knowledge to our team. Growing up at Far West Farms and coming from a prestigious equestrian family, Nick has competed successfully at renowned venues like Spruce Meadows and The Del Mar National. After turning professional, he trained under internationally acclaimed riders, including Nick Karazissis Sr., Ray Texel, and Mike Edrick. Nick’s expertise is invaluable for helping advanced riders excel.
For beginners, our horse riding lessons focus on building strong foundational skills like proper equitation, basic flatwork, and an introduction to jumping. Diane’s expertise ensures new riders—including children—build confidence in a supportive and structured environment. We also encourage beginners to participate in entry-level competitions, such as leadline classes for children and crossrail classes for adult beginners. These experiences are a great way to gain confidence and enjoy the thrill of showing.
Intermediate riders refine their technique, master courses, and improve their eye for distances. With personalized attention from Diane and Nick, you’ll continue to build your skills while preparing for more advanced challenges.
For advanced riders, we dive into the finer details of pace, precision, and performance. Nick’s top-level competition and international training background ensures you’ll receive the tools and insights needed to thrive in the show ring.
We understand that every rider’s situation is unique, so we want to be transparent about our program. While we don’t offer lesson horses, we do provide lesson ponies for young riders. If you’re an older student, we ask that you bring your own horse, whether it’s one you own or lease.
Don’t have a horse yet? Don’t worry—we can help you find the perfect mount to lease or purchase, ensuring it fits your goals well.
Our facilities have been completely renovated over the past two years to meet elite standards. We now can house up to 50 horses in our newly renovated stables, offering top-notch care for every equine partner. Our elite-grade riding arena features high-quality footing, show-quality jumps, and a variety of course designs that prepare students for competition settings. For a well-rounded training experience, we also provide access to trails and open fields.
Our English riding lessons focus on building a strong foundation in horsemanship while helping riders excel in the hunter/jumper disciplines. No matter where you are on your riding journey, our facilities and resources are here to support you.
We’re passionate about the hunter/jumper tradition and bring this focus to every lesson. Our program blends the elegance of hunter classes with the technical challenges of jumper courses, ensuring riders develop a versatile skill set.
In hunter lessons, you’ll work on creating a smooth, flowing round while maintaining a harmonious partnership with your horse. Jumper lessons shift the focus to efficiency and athleticism, helping you tackle challenging courses with speed and precision. Combining elements of both disciplines prepares you to excel in various competitive settings.
Our English riding lessons also include exposure to show scenarios, helping you transition smoothly from practice to competition.
At Cross Creek Malibu Farm, we aim to provide the ultimate experience for dedicated hunter jumper riders. We pride ourselves on maintaining top-tier facilities and offering personalized programs that help riders achieve their goals. Our commitment to quality and rider development sets us apart as the leading show barn in Malibu.
At Cross Creek Malibu Farm, we’re more than just a riding school—we’re a community. We love sharing our knowledge and fostering a passion for the sport in every rider. Whether you’re mastering your first crossrail or earning a ribbon at a prestigious competition, we’re here to celebrate your progress.
Safety is always a top priority in our horse riding lessons. We emphasize correct technique and proper horsemanship to keep you and your horse safe and comfortable. Our positive and encouraging environment helps you build confidence while overcoming challenges.
We also offer opportunities to participate in clinics, schooling shows, and rated competitions. These experiences allow you to test your skills and grow as a competitor and horseperson.
Everyone’s schedules differ, so we offer flexible lesson times to fit your needs. Based on your preferences and goals, choose from private, semi-private, or group sessions. We also offer convenient lesson packages for riders looking to commit to consistent progress.
There’s never been a better time to explore the hunter/jumper riding world. Whether you’re here to sharpen your skills or compete at the highest level, we’re ready to guide you every step of the way. With expert instruction, top-quality facilities, and a supportive community, Cross Creek Malibu Farm is dedicated to helping you achieve your equestrian dreams.
Contact us today to schedule your first lesson or learn more about our program. We can’t wait to welcome you to the Cross Creek Malibu Farm family and watch you thrive in the saddle!
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