Ann Cole Training Center teaches “Horsemanship”, helping local youth learn new skills

NILES, Mich. -- At Ann Cole Training Center in Niles, young riders are preparing for the months ahead at a show horse boot camp designed to get them ready for the 2026 season.

With 4-H fair season approaching, the training center is welcoming equestrians of all experience levels. Some campers are new to horse showing, while owner Ann Cole leads with decades of experience.

The camp focuses on horsemanship — the art of training and caring for horses — but said the lessons go far beyond the arena.

“Some of my students from like 40 years ago connect with me through social media and find me,” Cole said. “And they tell me how hard they worked at my barn and all the things that they learned that did help them with their life lessons going down the road.”

Trainer Zoe Scott said participants are learning more than how to present a polished horse in the ring.

“A lot of these horses, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows,” Scott said. “So some of these kids, it’s hard for them to learn that there are disappointments, but you have to work through it. Make yourself better.”

Beyond riding skills, the program also fosters friendships and confidence among young girls.

“These three horses behind us are owned by three beautiful young ladies,” Scott said. “They really weren’t friends before they owned these horses and the past couple months, they’ve really stuck together and started learning together. They have become the bestest friends. We call them the Three Musketeers, or the Pony Pals.”

For those already looking ahead to warmer weather and county fairs, the Ann Cole Training Center will host another horse show boot camp April 26.