Nestled in the picturesque town of Eads, Tennessee, the new Ashley Fant Show Stables has risen elegantly amidst rolling pastures and lush tree lines. These stables embody the unwavering determination and resilience of one remarkable woman. It stands as a symbol of hope and achievement, particularly for equestrians, single mothers, and anyone who has confronted seemingly insurmountable challenges.
An Unexpected Challenge
In January 2023, Ashley Fant, an equine business owner, Hunter/ Jumper trainer and USEF “R” Hunter, Hunter Equitation and Hunter Breeding Judge, and a USEF “r” Jumper Judge faced an unexpected ordeal. She was notified on January 2nd that she had to relocate her Hunter/Jumper business from its current barn by April of the same year. For Ashley, a single mother, this news threatened to dismantle her business and undermine years of dedication as an equestrian trainer and USEF judge. Owning her own farm had always been a cherished goal, yet it felt like a distant dream—at least two years out—when she received the difficult news.
However, the adversity birthed opportunity. “I wasn’t going to let anyone or anything put me out of business,” Ashley declared, sparking her search for a new home for her show stables.
A Vision Among the Trees
Driven by unwavering determination, Ashley set out on an extensive quest to find the new Ashley Fant Show Stables, focusing her search within a 30-mile radius of the Greater Memphis area. She explored potential properties in Arkansas and northern Mississippi, but it was in Eads, Tenn. where she found her anchor.
Walking through thick trees and woods, Ashley and her real estate agent crossed a dense fence line. Her eyes fell upon 23.6 acres of beautiful rolling pasture. In that instant, Ashley saw not just land, but the future home of her dreams—a sprawling facility dedicated to the sport she loves.
The path that lay ahead, however, was fraught with challenges. The property hosted an existing six-stall barn, which was needed, but not sufficient for Ashley’s business. The infrastructure needed a complete overhaul, including extending the barn to accommodate 24 stalls. What should have been a straightforward expansion quickly morphed into a monumental task.
“I wasn’t going to let anyone or anything put me out of business.”
Throughout the harsh winter of 2023, Ashley faced what felt like a never-ending nightmare. The infrastructure development was the most daunting aspect, revealing not only physical obstacles such as getting water to her property, but the societal challenges were the most frustrating. As a woman leading this large-scale project, Ashley confronted a gender power imbalance head-on.
Many male contractors dismissed Ashley, often deferring to her father, who was only there to assist her. At times, she felt compelled to play the “helpless little lady” to evoke the right responses from certain contractors—a frustrating yet useful tactic. Her father was a vital part of the major project. He stood by her side, helping her lay each fence post, dig trenches, and support her as she advocated for overturning the county’s rejection of a well installation for water.
Ashley wasn’t just building a new home for her business; she was reinforcing her resolve. “If I didn’t do it, I was going to be out of business,” she proclaimed, reflecting on the times she dug up and relayed drainage pipes with her own hands to ensure the foundation was solid and functional.
Throughout her endeavor, Ashley was uplifted by her clients and horses. They weathered four moves and the turbulence of construction together. One client expressed unwavering loyalty, saying, “I don’t care if you have to stick my horses in a field, I am coming with you!” This sense of community and support was a constant source of strength.
Ashley’s vision for her dream facility remained vivid in her mind, keeping her focused on her ultimate goal. Looking back, she acknowledges that she wasn’t entirely prepared to take on such a monumental project, but necessity left her with no alternative. With her parents’ unwavering support, Ashley emerged stronger and more resilient. Now, she possesses the skills to construct almost anything—from fences and drainage systems to creative projects like custom-designed shutters, crafted uniquely by her own hands.
A New Chapter
Today, Ashley Fant Show Stables is nearing completion, requiring only minor finishing touches like paint and stain. The facility features 24 stalls, welcoming new boarders while continuing to nurture existing clients. Unlike traditional rectangular arenas, Ashley intentionally designed her riding ring with a unique shape. On the west side, a hunting path allows riders to exit and re-enter the arena, or venture further to explore the rolling green pastures just beyond. This thoughtful setup aims to keep horses engaged and happy during their rides, as Ashley emphasized her desire to avoid bored or ring-sour horses.
The culture within her barn is rooted in kindness, reflecting Ashley’s values and the supportive environment she has cultivated. Her daughter, Georgia, is among the children who train at her stables.
Ashley is an expert in training equestrians of all ages for the Hunter/Jumper show ring, fostering a profound appreciation for sport horses. “This is a place for sport horses,” she proudly states. She is the only USEF “R” Hunter, Hunter Equitation and Hunter Breeding Judge, and USEF “r” Jumper Judge in the Greater Memphis area who owns her own facility. Ashley’s expertise brings a unique level of prestige and passion to her stables.
Inspiring Equestrians
Ashley’s story is not just about overcoming adversity; it is a powerful narrative of grit, vision, and empowerment which are unique characteristics of equine business owners. Her triumph over gender barriers and the challenges of single motherhood serve as an inspiration to future horse trainers, entrepreneurial women, and single parents looking to create their own impact and legacy in the equestrian industry.
In building her dream, Ashley Fant has not only carved out a sanctuary for sport horses but also laid a path for others to follow. Her stables stand as a testament to her tenacity and serve as an invitation to those who seek community, growth, and excellence in equestrian pursuits.
Ashley Fant Show Stables is more than a business; it is a story of resilience, built with love, determination, and the unwavering belief that dreams, no matter how distant, can indeed become reality.
You can find more information and photos of the new facility on Ashley Fant Show Stables Facebook Page. If you would like to schedule a tour of the new facility please contact Ashley at (901) 603-6231.
