Fingers Crossed has everything you need to start your riding journey today. Learn more about Mary and our quality horses that will help your kids fall in love with riding.
For over 40 years, Mary has been devoted to providing the most comprehensive and thorough instruction to her clientele. She is routinely invited to teach at clinics and camps throughout the region and was a frequent guest instructor for Casanova Warrenton Pony when her 3 children were members. Her warm personality and efficient professional facility nurture one of the best new rider experiences available. Meet your Instructor, and her story about creating this amazing facility
A Pittsburgh native, Mary grew up riding and teaching Hunt Seat Equitation in the Western Pennsylvania area. She worked extensively on the Hunter circuit for the Lenehan family’s Barely Able Stable, and Fairfield County Hunt Club, traveling up and down the East Coast, attending the nation’s most prestigious horse shows, such as Devon, Lake Placid, and WEF.
Upon graduation from the University of Pittsburgh, with a degree in English, Mary continued teaching and riding in Pennsylvania and Illinois, coaching numerous students to year-end awards at regional and national competitions. She and her husband have made Fauquier County their home since 2002, relocating to Virginia specifically for the horses. They raised three children, who all find time to ride while pursuing college educations and professional lives.
Mary served as RideFauquier’s founding President, a first-of-its-kind, public riding arena and trailhead, just outside the town of Warrenton. She has been in an advisory capacity with the organization since its inception, in 2007. In addition to her work with RideFauquier, Mary also served on the non-profit boards of Citizens for Fauquier County, and the Pedestrian, Bicycles and Greenways Advisory Committee. Both organizations work intricately with local government, to preserve and protect our fabulous rural landscapes.
Most recently, Mary was invited to join The Warrenton Garden Club, affording her another opportunity to engage with a community she dearly loves. Throughout her career, Mary has enjoyed mentoring students of all ages and ability levels. She takes pride in attending to the smallest details, ensuring that her pupils develop into competent, complete, well-rounded horsemen.
Goodwill Ambassador
Chief Receiver of Belly Rubs and Greeter of
Greatest Enthusiasm.
Jude's talent in the tack, combined with his easy going nature, proves an invaluable asset to the Finger's Crossed operation. Jude wears many hats as an instructor, lead rider, and show-ring coach. He can be counted on for his relaxing riding style and attention to detail.
Jude's Experience:
- Member Virginia Riding (University of Virginia Show Team)
- Worked multiple seasons for Olympic gold medal Show Jumper, Joe Fargis.
- Awarded best child rider, Warrenton Pony Show 2019.
Farm Puss Extraordinaire
Chief Officer of Pest and Rodent Control. Adorable and friendly, but utterly useless within her department. Rarely sighted, as she prefers life at the end of someone's bed.