The Desiderio’s notable drive for outstanding achievements in the working hunter, as well as huntseat and equitation divisions, is a family endeavor. “We’ve got the best combination between us all, because we are unified as a family, and we all set high goals,” says Ricci Desiderio, father of Michael, 18, Anthony, 16, Alexandria, 14, and Vinny, 4. Ricci and his wife Stephanie have over 30 years of riding and teaching experience in a variety of disciplines. Their four children share the same spirit to ride and compete.

Michael is currently the leading junior rider in the U.S. and has broken records with more national titles than any junior in the history of the Arabian circuit. He is the only junior to ever win the Hunter Classic at the Sport Horse Nationals, which he achieved a total of two years.

Ricci and Stephanie teach private lessons at the family owned Tranquillity Farm Equestrian Center in Chester, NJ. “We look for riders who are interested in aggressively competing in all divisions in both the Arabian and open circuits,” says Ricci. Tranquillity Horse Farm annually accepts new riders to their program after going through an interview process. “We want to make sure we are the best thing for their interest and their program.” Riders of all ages are welcome, and the Desiderios have experience instructing clients from beginner level through national championships.

The Desiderios purchased Tranquillity Farm in 2005 when the spectacular 60-acre piece of historic property was being purchased by the town to be designated as preserved land for agricultural purposes only. Ricci was eager to purchase land in the area where he grew up, which is also a town over from the United States Equestrian Team headquarters. The Desiderios were taken by the unique history of Tranquillity Farm, which was once a tavern in 1750. They renovated the estate, preserving as much as they could of the original buildings.

The family has taken Tranquillity Farm to the next level with two outdoor arenas, each 100 x 300 feet, and a Grand Prix field that is 300 x 450 feet. The property boasts 55 acres of pasture and a training center with 56 stalls. The 45,000 square foot training facility also includes seven tack stalls, central vacuum systems, four wash stalls, and an 80 x 200 indoor arena.

“We’re building an equestrian facility that is more like an exclusive golf club,” explains Ricci. “A beautiful, pristine facility that is not only for training the horse and rider, but for the whole family.” Tranquillity Farm will provide lounge areas for all members of the family to relax and feel comfortable while riders are given lessons.

“We’re looking for a solid, committed person. We require riders to take lessons two days out of the week. We actually have some students that ride and take lessons four or five times a week,” say Ricci. “We want to make sure it’s a success story.” The Desiderios have proven that their riders excel, not just through the amazing accomplishments of their son Michael, but all of their students. At one equitation competition out of about 38 riders, the top five riders on both judges’ scorecards were students of Tranquillity Farm.

Tranquillity Farm also trains and buys quality horses such as Arabians, Half-Arabians, and warmbloods, some of which they import from Europe.

The Desiderio’s ambitious will to succeed is founded on a passion for riding and a strong family bond. “Our whole family is involved. We own the facility, we are the trainers, we manage and run the facility,” explains Ricci. “To have all four siblings ride is extremely unbelievable.”

For more information visit www.tranquillityhorsefarm.com or call 908-879-7007.