About Duffy's
A Barn Built on Love & Purpose
Duffy's Equestrian was born from a simple yet powerful belief — that the bond between horse and human has the power to heal, transform, and inspire. What started as a small dream has grown into a thriving multi-dimensional equestrian center.
We are proud to offer structured instruction through the United States Pony Club (USPC) and 4-H programs, providing young riders with the tools they need to develop not just as equestrians, but as confident, compassionate individuals.
Our approach goes beyond traditional riding instruction. We embrace the whole person — mind, body, and spirit — through equine-assisted activities that foster trust, emotional resilience, and a deep connection to these magnificent animals.
We maintain a herd of 13 horses, most of which have had an injury or medical condition which requires medications. Their care and wellbeing are at the heart of everything we do.
Our founder, Pat Duffy, has dedicated her life to the equestrian community — serving on the Marin Horse Council, running West Coast Pentathlon, and leading 4-H for over 50 years.
Mimi Duffy
Certified Masterson Method Practitioner · USPC Coach · 4-H Project Leader
Mimi Duffy has been a devoted horsewoman for over 50 years, dedicating her life to the care, education, and empowerment of both horses and riders. Her equestrian journey began in Virginia as a young member of the Dominion Valley Pony Club, where her love for horses and learning first took root. At just 12 years old, Mimi and her family trailered their two horses across the country to California—a formative adventure that set the tone for a lifetime of dedication to the equestrian world.
After settling in Novato, Mimi joined the Novato Junior Horsemen's Club in 1976, becoming an active member through the 1980s and early 1990s. When she returned to her family ranch about twelve years ago, she rejoined the organization as a senior member and now proudly serves on its Board of Directors. Her lifelong connection to the local horse community continues to inspire the next generation of riders.
Professionally, Mimi is a nurse specializing in alternative medicine, but her true passion lies in teaching horsemanship and equine communication. As a Certified Masterson Method Practitioner, she has developed a youth program for the Masterson Method based on Pony Club standards, helping young equestrians learn to listen to and understand their horses through gentle, intuitive techniques. Mimi coaches the Rosewood Riders United States Pony Club and serves as a project leader for the H Lane Vaqueros 4-H program in Marin County—both of which have produced National Champions under her guidance.
50+
Horses Helped
200+
Riders & Families
USPC & 4-H
Certifications
Growing
Years of Service
Meet the Herd
Our 13 horses are the heart of everything we do. Each one has a unique story, personality, and role in our programs.
Prancer
The Legend
The heart and soul of the barn, Prancer is the horse who started it all. At 33 years old, this beloved elder is a true escape artist who enjoys teaching the colts how to misbehave. He carries decades of wisdom — and a little mischief — in equal measure.
Angel
The Unicorn
Angel is a true unicorn. An imported Connemara and the mother of Mikey and Maraide, she is 29 years old and has taught Olympians to ride. She remains a favorite among young riders and therapeutic program participants alike, and her calm, steady presence makes everyone feel safe in the saddle.
Mikey
The Survivor
Mikey is 26 years old and was abandoned by his owner. He has some special needs, but despite everything he has been through, he continues to give back every single day.
Maraide
The Fighter
Maraide is 16 years old and recently foundered, coming heartbreakingly close to being euthanized. We are so fortunate that she has recovered as well as she has. She requires monthly medication and dietary restrictions, but her spirit is unbroken.
Twilight
The Healer
Twilight is 22 years old and the mother of Odie. A former broodmare, she has been learning to jump and showing incredible heart every step of the way. She is currently being worked up for Cushing's disease and will most likely require daily medication going forward.
Odie
The Comeback Kid
Odie is a 10-year-old Connemara who came to us with two fractures on his poll, along with a neck and back injury. He became the cornerstone of our rehabilitation program and the inspiration behind our Masterson Method youth program. He is now back in the ribbons, though he requires injections and a daily anti-inflammatory medication. He has a very unique, trumpet-like whinny that he uses to greet us every day.
Bella
The Teacher
Bella is a 14-year-old Quarter Horse who is an amazing teacher. Her patience and steady nature make her a beloved partner for riders of all levels, especially those just starting their journey in the saddle.
Rumor
The Jumper
Rumor is a Connemara broodmare with a natural talent for jumping that leaves everyone in awe. Athletic, powerful, and graceful in the air, she is a true testament to the Connemara breed's versatility.
Topaz
The Matriarch
Topaz is an imported Connemara broodmare and the proud mother of Tiger. Despite carrying some old injuries, she has taken on a new challenge with remarkable spirit — learning dressage and jumping. Her determination and elegance in the ring are an inspiration to all who watch her.
Magic
The Mischief Maker
Magic is a 3-year-old Connemara colt bred right here at the barn. Full of personality and boundless mischief, he has captured everyone's hearts. The children were involved in his insemination and have been a part of his education from the very beginning — making him a true product of our community.
Tiger
The Barn Baby
Tiger is a 3-year-old Connemara colt bred as part of our youth program, and the son of Topaz. His birth was a special moment witnessed by the children of our program — a memory they will carry forever. Like his mother, he is full of promise and already showing the bold character of his Connemara heritage.
Loughie
The Late Bloomer
Loughie is a 15-year-old Connemara rescue who came to us all the way from Missouri at age 12 — unstarted and untouched under saddle. He has since been started and is proving himself to be a willing partner. With some professional training ahead of him, we can't wait to see who he becomes.
Candy
The Comeback Queen
Candy is a 14-year-old Connemara mare who came to us struggling with performance issues. With dedicated care, patience, and the right support, she has made a remarkable turnaround and is back in the ribbons — proving that every horse deserves a second chance to shine.
Duffy's in the News
UC ANR California 4-H Grown
2024
California 4-H Horse Classic Team Excels at National Western Roundup
Marin County 4-H members Pyper, Skyler, and Maya — from Duffy's — traveled to Denver to represent California 4-H at the National Western Roundup, placing as Champion Team in Hippology and Team Demonstration.
Stable Connections Zine
Spring 2026
A Journey of Connection, Growth and Gratitude — The Masterson Method Youth Program
Mimi Duffy writes about coaching Maya and Zoe to become 2024 National Champions in Tetrathlon at the US Pony Club Festival, and how the Masterson Method shaped their journey.
Masterson Method
2022
Teaching the Masterson Method to Youth Groups
A feature on how Duffy's youth riders are teaching the Masterson Method to other youth groups, spreading equine bodywork and trust-building techniques.
Masterson Method
2022
Building Trust at US Pony Club Nationals
Duffy's riders taught the Masterson Method alongside Jim Masterson at the US Pony Club National Festival, demonstrating how bodywork builds trust between horse and rider.
American Connemara Pony Society
May/June 2022
American Connemara Magazine — May/June 2022
Featured in the American Connemara Pony Society's official magazine, highlighting our work with Connemara ponies.
Our Philosophy
We believe every person who walks through our barn doors carries a story, and every horse has the wisdom to help write a new chapter. Our programs are designed to meet you where you are — whether you're a young rider taking your first lesson, a family seeking connection, or someone looking for healing through the gentle presence of a horse.