Rancho Cielo
Equestrian Facility
UK Equestrian specializes in English Hunter / Jumper equestrian training, offering a safe and fun environment for both adult and children riders, from beginner to advanced. We have well trained horses and ponies and focus on learning the basics from the ground up. Our students learn all aspects of horse care, with a strong emphasis on safety.
At UK Equestrian whether you are just looking to have a good time and get a little extra help or are interested in serious competition, we can tailor a package to suit the needs of you and your horse.
A lesson is one hour in length and begins with leading the horse from its stall. We teach proper grooming and tacking before and after the ride, ending by putting the horse away in its stall to make sure the experience is complete. In addition to our regular lesson program we also offer fun filled week long day camps for children during school breaks, as well as birthday parties, and small groups.
UKE keeps regular communications regarding lesson schedules, rain delays, upcoming events, shows, and more, through a "Group Me" team chat.
For information about the riding school contact Karyl Hanley, Facilities Manager, (858) 414-4982.
Our Full Training Program
The Training program is designed for riders who own, lease, or 1/2 lease a horse at our facility. $575.00
Consists of 4 training services per week which may include any combination of the following services: lessons and or professional rides. Riders in the training program may be eligible to apply for independent studies credits. We routinely attend GSDHJA horse shows. While showing is encouraged, it is not required.
The Lesson Program is for riders early in their training who are not yet ready to lease or own, but may be starting to compete at junior levels. $575.00
This program consists of 2 lessons per week, and a quarterly evaluation to review goals and accomplishments. These lessons will focus on equitation on the flat and over fences based on levels of proficiency. Students may be eligible for Independent Study credits, as well as allowed to participate in local horse shows.
Our Lesson Program
Meet The Team
Graeme Dixon
Head Trainer/Owner
Graeme Dixon, head trainer & owner, has been a regular on the San Diego hunter/jumper circuit for over 20 years. Dixon grew up in the United Kingdom and learned to ride and care for horses in the thorough and structured Pony Club method. He is also trained in the British Horse Society method. He sets specific goals for all students and creates individually tailored programs to help achieve them.
U.K. Equestrian has additional experienced senior and junior trainers on staff to supplement the lesson and training programs, and show competition schedules.
Kellie DiGioia
Trainer / Sales
With over 35 years of experience, and 25 years as a professional in the horse industry , Kellie has a vast amount of knowledge to share with your rider, and to facilitate schooling your horses. Kellie began her riding career at the legendary Foxfield, training under under Nancy Turrill and JoAnn Postel, where she was taught a broad array of horsemanship skills. Kelli has traveled as far as New York performing at the Belmont Stakes, competing in the Maclay Finals in New Jersey, and locally at the World Cup Finals at Del Mar. Kelli's significant and ongoing competition experience continues to provide great role modelling and inspiration for our riders.
Karyl Hanley
Facilities Manager
With a Masters Degree in Business Administration from The University of Pheonix, and a long corporate career as an Operations & Facilities Manager, the transition to Rancho Cielo Equestrian Facility, made for a great fit. Beginning in the January 2019 Karyl began to oversee the daily facility operations. She is the go-to point of contact for all facility needs, and if she doesn't have an immediate answer for you, she'll certainly get one! In addition, Karyl runs the scheduling from the UK Equestrian Training & Lesson Programs. Don't hesitate to contact her with questions or for more information.
