Silvia & Jack Speyer
Owner-Operators
"These days, horses are rare even to Texans," remarks Silvia Speyer, who exudes calm assurance with her preternaturally large eyes. Silvia, originally from New York and Virginia, made her way to Texas to pursue her passion for horses under the expansive Texas sky. After training as a dressage rider at White Fences Equestrian Center for 15 years, she and her husband, Jack, became the proud owners of this beautifully designed equine property in August 2017.
Unparalleled Horse Boarding, Training, and Dressage Lessons
Silvia's expertise in dressage is evident—she earned her bronze medal in dressage on a horse she trained herself and is halfway to her silver medal. At White Fences Equestrian Center, we offer top-tier horse boarding, training, and lessons in dressage. Silvia and Jack's dedication ensures that each horse receives exceptional care and training.
A Legacy of Equestrian Excellence
"We are honored to be owners of one of the most beautifully designed equine properties in greater Austin," says Silvia. Her deep knowledge of each horse on the property is immediately apparent. A current client shares, "My horse wasn't eating all their grain at breakfast. Silvia noticed and called me. We figured out she didn't like her grain soaked. Problem solved."
A Family Affair
Jack, when not engaged in his corporate career, is hands-on at White Fences—hauling horses, building jumps, and overseeing their daughter River's riding lessons. Jack's love for Silvia and the facility was evident when he proposed during a trail ride, in front of her horses. "I just want my wife to be happy," he says, a sentiment echoed in their harmonious partnership.
Bridging the Past and Future of Equestrian Culture
Both Silvia and Jack are Austin technocrats, having graduated from George Mason University in Virginia. They were initially surprised by the diminished presence of horses in modern Austin. "When we displayed our horses during the 2018 SXSW HBO Westworld experience, many people asked if our horses were cleverly designed robots," says Silvia. "I was so sad. These days, horses are rare even to Texans."
Preserving Equestrian Heritage
Urban development has encroached upon heritage ranch lands around Austin since the 1980s. To counter this, the Speyers have enlisted a diverse group of Austin professionals to help transform White Fences into a 21st-century barn while preserving equestrian heritage. "We put our daughter River on a horse when she was nine months old," says Jack. "She began riding in earnest at two and a half. Riding has made her tough and confident, like her mom."
Experience the Best in Dressage at White Fences Equestrian Center
Join us at White Fences Equestrian Center for exceptional horse boarding, training, and dressage lessons. Discover the dedication and passion that Silvia and Jack Speyer bring to this premier equestrian facility. Contact us today to start your equestrian journey and become part of our vibrant community.
And what is Silvia’s opinion of the business she has taken on?
“I am running a high-end, professional barn offering an exceptional level of care,” says Silvia without hesitation. “I have a growing community of like-minded people who enjoy a relaxing, fun, and safe environment. This is where they can learn and pursue their preferred riding styles. We are passionate about both classical dressage and combined training. If you are a professional who competes in the shows, we will support you to reach the levels you desire. If you don’t wish to compete, and just want to ride for pleasure, we have miles of trails for you to hack around.” Whatever doubts our clients have fall away the moment they turn into the green canopy of Jones Road and see the first horse peeking over the white fence.”
Silvia started riding as an adult, and as a result she says. “I am especially sympathetic to adult beginners,” she says. “I know how intimidating it can first appear, especially when the first equestrian you encounter is someone in a fancy show outfit, whose biography proclaims that they have been riding since they were in their mother’s womb! I may be in dressage now, but my first horse was a green quarter horse who only knew how to do trail rides. I didn’t know what boots to buy or even how to put on an English bridle. But I had this incredible love for horses, which I believe many members of the Austin public share. So if you want to start this journey, however brief or long you want it to be, we’re here for you, with empathy, honesty, and sincerity.”