Supportive Therapeutic Riding for Independence, Development, and Empowerment
Founded in 2000, Blue Point Stables has proudly served the East Tennessee area for over 25 years, providing lessons, camps, and competition opportunities to riders of all ages and skill levels. STRIDE builds on this strong foundation, extending the same opportunities to individuals with disabilities, foster children, and at-risk youth.
At STRIDE, we believe in the life-changing power of the horse–human connection. Our mission is to provide high-quality equine activities that foster confidence, independence, and personal growth in a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment.
We envision a community where every individual—regardless of ability—can discover joy, purpose, and empowerment through horsemanship. Together with our riders, families, and volunteers, we celebrate every achievement and every stride forward.
Mission Statement
Our mission is to provide high-quality equine activities to people with disabilities, foster children, and at-risk youth. Through inclusive education and meaningful connections with horses, we strive to foster personal growth, build confidence, and strengthen our community.
Brandy McDonnell
Brandy McDonnell is the heart behind Blue Point Stables and the founder of STRIDE, a therapeutic riding program that combines her lifelong love of horses with her commitment to helping people grow and heal through horsemanship.
With more than 30 years of teaching experience, Brandy brings compassion, patience, and expertise to every lesson. She holds a Master Instructor certification from the Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA) and was recognized as the 2004 Tennessee American Quarter Horse Association Professional Horseman of the Year.
Brandy created STRIDE to share the life-changing benefits of working with horses — building confidence, independence, and connection for riders of all abilities. Her goal is to ensure every participant experiences the joy and empowerment that come from partnering with these remarkable animals.
Laura Deal
With more than 40 years of riding and competitive experience, Laura Deal brings both skill and heart to her role as an instructor at Blue Point Stables. Her lifelong passion for horses began in childhood and has grown through years of training and showing alongside professional horsemen across multiple disciplines.
Laura has a special talent for helping riders build confidence, improve technique, and develop a true partnership with their horses. She has served as an assistant coach for the Blue Point Stables Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) team, guiding middle and high school students in their riding and showing skills.
In addition to teaching lessons, Laura supports the program through horse care, safety checks, and barn management. Her deep knowledge and calm, encouraging teaching style make her an invaluable part of the Blue Point Stables team.
Our Home at Blue Point Stables
STRIDE is proud to call Blue Point Stables home. As an established and trusted riding school, Blue Point provides the perfect foundation for our therapeutic and adaptive riding programs. The facility already has everything needed to ensure a safe, supportive, and enjoyable experience—from kind, experienced lesson horses to well-maintained equipment and comfortable amenities.
Located on a peaceful farm in East Roane County, Blue Point Stables is just a short 20-minute drive from Oak Ridge, Lenoir City, and Farragut. The barn features 16 spacious stalls, a wash bay, tack room, indoor restroom, and a classroom for lessons and volunteer trainings. Surrounded by 180 acres of pastures and woodlands, the property offers beautiful open spaces for riding, including a 65’ x 200’ covered arena and a 150’ x 300’ derby field.
It’s a place where horses, riders, volunteers, and families come together—sharing laughter, learning, and the joy that comes from growing alongside these amazing animals.