ABOUT US
We specialize in American Saddlebred horses and Hackney ponies, with opportunities to ride for pleasure and in competition. We're located minutes from Wake Forest and just a short drive from Raleigh, Durham, Henderson, Rocky Mount and Wilson.
Ingleside Farm is located 15 minutes north of Wake Forest and 35 minutes north of Raleigh at
606 Hicks Road in Franklinton, NC.
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Riding a horse is one of life's most fun and fulfilling activities. Perfect for children and adults, horseback riding is a great way to develop a special connection with the magnificent animal that is the horse. And for those who don't ride, driving is another means of enjoying equestrian activities.
OUR STAFF
Heather Boodey
Owner/Trainer/Instructor
Owner and head trainer, Heather grew up immersed in horses — born to parents who were themselves involved with training and equestrian life. She began riding as a young child, showing her first pony by age eight and gaining hands‑on experience working at several notable barns during her youth. Heather continued her involvement in the Saddlebred world through her teenage years, including working for established trainers and competing with a variety of mounts. After attending college at East Carolina University, she took over the family’s barn operations in the early 1990s and has since built Ingleside into a respected training and lesson facility. Known for her dedication to developing both junior and amateur riders as well as identifying good show horses, Heather has guided many horses and riders to success in regional and national competition — especially in Junior Exhibitor and amateur divisions. She also serves on the board of the North Carolina Horse Council, American Saddlebred Association of the Carolinas, Hackney Foundation Board, and United Professional Horseman's Association.
She’s been recognized within the equestrian community, including being named the 2024 UPHA Chapter 12 Horse Person of the Year, and focuses on developing both horses and riders for success from beginner levels through competition. Her leadership shapes the farm’s culture and training philosophy, emphasizing patience, skill progression, and a strong partnership between horse and rider.
Megan Whitby
Trainer/Website Manager
Megan fills the role of Trainer and Website Manager at the farm, combining equestrian training expertise with managing the farm’s online presence. After graduating with a degree in Animal Science from NC State University, she began working at the barn in 2003.
In her training capacity she assists with show horses and riders, helping prepare horses for shows and supporting riders in skill development, while her website work ensures information about programs, events, and schedules stays up to date for clients and the community.
Megan is also involved in several breed organizations including being Secretary of the Southern Hackney Horse Society and website manager for the American Saddlebred Association of the Carolinas. She has also won Service Awards for both organizations.
Erica Boulden
Trainer/Instructor
Erica supports both training and instruction at the farm, helping with rider education and assisting in preparing horses for various activities. Erica is a 2021 graduate from Stephens College. She works closely with students during lessons and helps with training of the show horses & ponies. She has lots of experience with horses and a commitment to helping riders improve their skills.
Allison Evans
Riding Instructor
As one of the Instructors at Ingleside Farm, Allison works closely with lesson students, helping new and continuing riders build confidence and competence in their riding. Her involvement in lessons contributes to the inclusive environment the farm promotes for riders starting at age 3 and up, fostering safe and enjoyable learning experiences.
Skylar Scearce
Riding Instructor
Skylar serves as an Instructor at Ingleside Farm, working with riders during lessons and assisting students as they learn and refine their Saddleseat riding skills. Her role involves guiding riders of various ages and ability levels through foundational riding techniques, safety, and horsemanship under the farm’s structured lesson program. She also enjoys helping with summer camps.
She is currently working on her master's degree in Speech Language Pathology at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She recently graduated from UNC-Greensboro with a degree in Speech Language Pathology in 2024.
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