A History of Excellence: 1983 to present

Meet the MTRA horses, volunteers, staff and most importantly...our riders!

Marion Therapeutic Riding Association (MTRA) was founded in 1983 at Peg Wallace’s farm in Ocala, Florida. The program was soon certified by the North America Riding for the Handicapped Association (now known as PATH: Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International). During its formative years, MTRA was operated by several dedicated, unpaid individuals using horseback riding to help physically and mentally challenged people build self-esteem and independence. MTRA’s growing success with its clients caught the attention of the Hillcrest School for the Exceptional Student and in 1985, Hillcrest and MTRA formed a strategic alliance to add therapeutic riding to the school’s curriculum. It was also that year that MTRA became a 501(c)3 not-for-profit. A modest pole barn was constructed and six acres of the school’s property was devoted to the program.

With it’s ideal Ocala location in the heart of Florida’s horse country, MTRA has always been able to draw from a community teaming with highly skilled individuals well versed in equine-related activities. That, coupled with a hard working staff, devoted volunteers and the support of a generous community, has enabled MTRA to become of the the country’s top therapeutic riding organizations, earning premiere accreditation status from PATH International.

MTRA is also a premiere PATH International teaching facility, where students can earn certifications and degrees in a wide range of equine-assisted therapy courses and workshops. These programs are taught by our highly professional staff.

Today, MTRA continues the foundation of excellence begun in 1983 and is firmly dedicated to improving the quality of life of its clients by fostering programs that enhance their physical, emotional and mental well being.