From early mornings on the yard to the quiet satisfaction of watching a horse find its perfect home, Ryan James Fox has built a life rooted in passion, patience, and purpose. As a dedicated stable owner, Ryan’s journey with horses began long before his professional career took shape — and it continues to inspire every rider, student, and horse that crosses his path.
We caught up with Ryan to hear his story — from childhood beginnings with a Shetland pony to the realities of managing a modern equestrian business.
“Hey, my name is Ryan James Fox, and I’m a stable owner,” he shares with a confident smile.
Managing his own yard has become more than just a profession, it’s a lifestyle shaped by years of dedication, early mornings, and a lifelong bond with horses.
“It all started when I was three years old,” Ryan recalls with a smile. “I had a little Shetland pony called Bambi, that’s really where it all began.”
That early connection never left him. What began as childhood fascination soon became a lifelong calling. Over the years, his love for horses evolved into a professional pursuit, grounded in the same sense of curiosity and care that first drew him to the stable yard.
“My day starts early”..
“I get up, feed and check round, and turn the horses out before making a plan for the day ahead.” Ryan explains
From there, the rhythm of the day unfolds naturally: reviewing ride lists, riding, teaching, mucking out, and tending to every detail that keeps the yard running smoothly.
“Once the horses are brought in, it’s night nets, feed round, and then playtime with the dogs,” he says. “After that, it’s home, but the work never really stops. There are always emails and enquiries waiting for me.”
It’s a demanding routine, but one Ryan handles with quiet dedication. The balance of structure and spontaneity is what gives his days their shape — and keeps his love for the work alive.
“There’s a special kind of pride in placing a horse with a new family,” Ryan shares. “Or when someone I’m teaching smiles because something finally clicks. Even with young horses, that moment they learn something new — that’s what makes it all worth it.”
He laughs knowingly. “The horse world is the biggest rollercoaster you’ll ever ride. There have been plenty of challenges along the way, but they’ve all taught me something important.”
“How technical riding really is,” Ryan says.
“And how much goes into managing a large yard — not just the horses, but the clients, the logistics, the constant problem-solving.”
“I’d make the competition side less elitist,” he says firmly.
...“There are so many talented riders who don’t have the financial backing to reach their full potential. I’d love to see more opportunities for them.”
“Competing at Blair Castle on an ex-racehorse called Fergie,” Ryan recalls.
“I’d taken him up the levels from scratch, not just for an owner but for a good friend. It was a proud moment — one that really stayed with me.”
“The horses rely on you,”
He adds “No matter what’s happening, they still need care, attention, and consistency. That responsibility keeps me going.”
“Shane Breen,” Ryan says without hesitation. “He’s always been an inspiration to me — his skill, his attitude, his way with horses.”
He pauses, thoughtful. “It’s taught me how to keep calm, how to be tolerant, and how to think outside the box. Horses have a way of reflecting who we are, they teach patience and empathy like nothing else.”
For Ryan, the journey is far from over. Between running his stable, mentoring riders, and developing horses for new homes, he continues to live the lessons the equestrian life has taught him: discipline, resilience, and compassion. He concludes with:
“Every day brings a new challenge, but also a new reward. That’s the beauty of it.”
Inspired by Ryan’s journey?
Check out Fox Equestrian on Cavago and Discover Clinics and Horse Riding Sessions led by Ryan and his team.