Meet Danielle Keesey Cox | Riding Instructor & Horse Trainer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Danielle Keesey Cox and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Danielle, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
I have read that inspiration is something that makes someone want to do something or that gives someone an idea of what to do or create. There is so much about working with horses and teaching people to be horsemen that brings inspiration. I am fortunate enough to have a business that is in a position to offer lessons to the public of all ages. Nothing is as inspirational as watching horses instill a sense of confidence, work ethic, resilience, empathy, compassion, and self in the next generation of horse people. It brings sheer joy to watch students learn something new or overcome a challenge. I have been lucky enough to be a part of creating a beautiful facility where horses have the highest level of care and riders have many opportunities to grow in their love of horses and the equestrian sport.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Future Hope Equestrian is the only place in the Verde Valley that offers instruction in such a wide array of disciplines. We offer instruction in Western and English Dressage, Hunter/Jumper/Equitation, 3-day Eventing, pleasure and trail riding. Before the pandemic, my business provided a sanctuary away from screens that brought people together over the love of horses and during this pandemic, we are able to help bring an opportunity for our community to connect with others and with nature during this time of isolation. Those that come to Future Hope Equestrian and stay for any length of time find themselves as a part of a family. Because we have so much to offer, our clients have formed a community that continually learns from each other and grows because of that. We are excited to bring this community to the next generation of horse people. As we grow and expand our business, we are hopeful to reach even more people!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Old Town Cottonwood is the best! There are great restaurants, shopping and tons of wine tasting. If you need a break from all of that, there’s a fun hiking trailhead right in the heart of Old Town. Clarkdale is a wonderful and growing town as well. Violette’s Bakery Cafe is absolutely delicious. Tuzigoot National Monument is in our backyard to enjoy as well.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to Ann Riehl Smith the founder of Future Hope Equestrian. Without her, we would not have been able to create the amazing community we have today.

Website: www.FHEAZ.com

Instagram: @futurehopeequestrian

Facebook: Future Hope Equestrian

Other: Tiktok @futurehopeequestrian

Image Credits
Shutterfairy Images Cathy Ranges