About Us

We Share Your Passion

You love horse jumping and so do we. You like the self-discipline of training, relish the companionship of “barn people,” and long for your next ride. You’re a horse person just like us. Is there anything better?

We love what we do.

We are a professional group of equestrians with a long history of riding and training experience.

At First Flight we pride ourselves on:

Pairing people with the proper horse
Providing one-on-one training
Creating a fun, educational environment
Instilling confidence in our riders from beginners to show veterans

Come join our family team. We’re here to serve you.

Mission Statement - We believe in ethical, serious fun,

that instills the values of work and discipline

First Flight Team

Riley Haines

I’m a 5 th generation farm girl, born and raised outside of Lafayette, Indiana. My childhood days were spent riding, showing, and fox hunting. In college, I dabbled in other outdoor activities
like rock climbing, snowboarding, and kayaking.

After graduation, I returned to my equine roots and began teaching. I studied the American System of Forward Riding and became a certified ANRC rider. Other qualifications soon followed: USHJA/USEF certified trainer, local show judge, and clinician.

My goal as a trainer/instructor is to utilize the graded system of teaching to ensure that horse and rider become complimentary partners.

Dacia Funkhouser Johnson

Riding has been a part of my life since a very early age. At the age of nine I was recognized as having a natural talent and, under the tutelage of Coach Russ Walther, I successfully climbed the ranks as a junior.

When I turned 20, I became a professional rider and attained Large “R” judge status. My career took me many places and I had the good fortune of taking the Puerto Rico equestrian team to the Pan Am games in 1991.

Certifications include: ANRC Rider, WCHR Champion, Capital Challenge Champion, AQHA Horse of the Year Champion and USEF "R" judge for 40 years.

I enjoy judging, doing clinics and spending time with my granddaughter.