PALM CITY- One thing the new owners of Standing Oak Farms, previously known as Martin Downs Equestrian Center, do not lack, is vision. Kay-Lynette and Taylor Roca hit the ground galloping and have not slowed down since taking ownership of the facility last May. The unstoppable mother-daughter business partners say that they have only scratched the surface of what’s to come.
Natives of Palm Beach County, with an extensive background spanning 35 years in veterinarian medicine, animal welfare and horses, the duo say that they chose Palm City, because of the unique niche it embodies in the equestrian community. The first class facility has very convenient access to both 95 and the turnpike and only 45 minutes from the Wellington show grounds.
After spending most of her life in the saddle, it seemed natural for Kay-Lynette to want the same for her daughters Taylor 29 and Jordyn 25.
“My entire childhood revolved around my horses. My mother’s only condition was that I maintain good grades and stay out of trouble. The responsibility required to care for horses left little time for mischief,” Roca said.
Showing the same love and early interest in horses, Roca’s girls started riding and showing ponies at the ages of 4 and 6. With a grueling schedule of riding lessons and horse shows that spanned the East Coast from Wellington to Lake Placid, Roca transitioned into a full-fledged barn mommy.
“My fondest memories are those spent with my children and other families at the barn and on the show circuit,” Roca said.
Today, Roca is an accomplished professional teaching Hunter/Jumper lessons at Standing Oak Farms and has recently began training under International Grand Prix Winner and Dressage Trainer Heather Bender. Jordyn, who’s riding career was cut short due to childhood epilepsy, is now seizure free and back in the saddle, making up for lost time.
Roca says that she is excited to now have the opportunity to share and offer others the same first class service that her children enjoyed when training and showing in Wellington, but with a personal touch and affordable pricing.
Standing Oak Farms is perfectly located between the major hubs of Ocala and Wellington. The sprawling 24 acre facility offers the best of both worlds to Dressage and Hunter/Jumper enthusiast. The facility includes 74 stalls, 56 turn out paddocks, a lighted and covered dressage arena complete with mirrors, lighted jump course and lighted general purpose ring, two round pens, air conditioned tack rooms and night checks.
The facility’s personal touch and special amenities brought internationally acclaimed Grand Prix winners and Professional Dressage Trainers, Heather Bender and Lou Denizard to Standing Oak Farms. These riders are the Rock Stars of the Dressage world and Standing Oak felt honored to have Heather and Lou, along with their amazing clients as part of the Standing Oak family.
Roca says that she is extremely proud of the progress that she and Taylor have made in such a short period of time, however it is their vision for Standing Oaks future that excites her the most. With a five year plan that includes a sports rehab facility, 9 acre European Cross Country course, a premium hay business, summer camp and a show series, Roca says the sky is the limit.
At the end of the day, Roca’s first priority is the love and care of the horses entrusted to Standing Oak. It is of the upmost importance to us that our clients rest well at night knowing that their horses are in trained, competent and loving hands. I like to think of us as the Four Seasons for horses. Our horses receive concierge service that includes night checks, peppermints, carrots and lip stick kisses on their noses as we say goodnight.
