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OAKVILLE BEAVER Wednesday, October 7, 2009 · 14 Living Oakville Beaver LIVING EDITOR: ANGELA BLACKBURN By Melanie Cummings SPECIAL TO THE BEAVER Phone: 905-337-5560 Fax: 905-337-5571 e-mail: ablackburn@oakvillebeaver.com Riding a new course New stable a familiar lifestyle for Neal Bertin "We cater to a lifestyle." Neal Bertin, owner Oakville Equestrian Centre A housing development abutting Neil Bertin's horse farm is a happy marriage of urban and rural settings. This atypical co-existence on Dundas Street, between Tremaine and Bronte roads, signals the latest realty trend. Another similar project is underway in Collingwood and already set up in communities south of the border. What sets this one apart is its ideal proximity to the trails in Bronte Provincial Park, located right behind the property. When Neil, 38, decided to move back to his roots, after travelling the world competing, training and teaching in the equestrian industry, he was eager to replicate the riding villages he had been a part of for so long. He and his wife, Sarah, found two riding arenas, which had been abandoned for four years, and set to work on renovating the acreage. While a whirlwind of home construction ensued around them, the couple cleared out the L-shaped barns, levelled the ground and even recruited their fast-growing clientele to help paint the interior. Within one month Oakville Equestrian Riding Centre opened its doors on Aug. 1. As well as room to board 10 horses and house a total of 22, inside is a patio seating area where students, parents and visitors can sit in comfort surrounded by a flat screen television, show trunks and large windows to watch a lesson in progress. Here is where rookie riders of all ages, and well-honed riders congregate to learn the ropes, improve handeye co-ordination and win competitively from instructors Neil and Sarah, Grace Ednie and Adele See Catering page 15 NEW DIGS: Neal Bertin at home at new equestrian centre.