Christine Marie’s Star Riders

About the Program

Riders work on physical, cognitive, emotional and social skills at their own pace, in supervised activities guided by instructors and trained volunteers. Riders do not need to become independent riders to take part. Lessons include arena games and trail rides around the equestrian center.

STAR Riders does not charge any child for lessons. The program runs on donations, grants from community foundations and gifts from individual supporters, and donations are tax-deductible.

Getting Started

Every rider needs a signed program participation consent form. After that, families call the office to plan a first visit and ask about current lesson days. Riders should wear long pants and boots with a heel if possible, and helmets are provided at the arena.

Teachers of students with special needs can call the office to arrange a class visit.

History and Volunteering

The program is named for Christine Marie Martin, who was born with tuberous sclerosis. Her mother, Linda Martin, first put Christine on a horse when she was three, and their time riding together inspired the program. It was renamed in Christine's honor after she died in 2000.

STAR Riders runs on volunteers, who serve as side walkers, horse handlers, fundraisers and facility helpers. Each volunteer completes a volunteer consent form.

Location

Lessons are held at the Marina Equestrian Center, at the corner of 9th Street and 5th Avenue in Marina, California, in the former Fort Ord stables. The arena can be reached from Highway 1 or Reservation Road. The office mailing address is 2115 N. Fremont Street, Monterey, CA 93940.