The Alisal wants to warmly welcome Jill Rivoli as the new Head Wrangler. Finding someone to take over the reins from Tony Thompson was a big task, but renown Equine Assisted Learning Expert and veteran horse woman Jill, is already getting rave reviews from guests.
Formerly the Director of Activities and Corporate Leadership Development Specialist at the distinguished Carmel Valley Ranch and the Equine Manager and Lead Facilitator at the famous Miraval Resort, she was responsible for creating unforgettable experiences for guests and members. On the equestrian side, her background includes board positions for the Equine Experiential Education Association and for Belos Cavalos – a facility dedicated to helping children recover from trauma.
When asked to describe her wrangling philosophy, she said “I love to create meaningful experiences. I want people who come to the Alisal to ride and spend time at the barn, to walk away thinking, ‘Wow! That was amazing!’”
While Jill may be relatively new at the Alisal, her roots at the Ranch are deep and very meaningful. She explains that her father and mother came to the Alisal in the 70’s and it was her father that got Jill involved with horses. Now that her beloved father has passed, being at the ranch where he rode horses, is like still being in his presence.
I want people who come to the Alisal to ride and spend time at the barn, to walk away thinking, ‘Wow! That was amazing!’
Jill’s love of the Ranch and its traditions are clear the moment you speak with her. Nurturing and building on those traditions is a top priority. In addition to maintaining all the old favorite activities, she is considering some new offerings as well. Some possibilities include roping classes for adults and kids, allowing guests to be more involved with the very popular Alisal summer rodeos, and getting youngins comfortable with horses even before they are old enough to ride. She would like to offer “Horseplay Classes” where children can groom a horse, practice their leadership skills, and make some loving equine friends. For groups, Jill has spent the last ten years offering organizational and professional development through interactions with horses. It is her goal to start offering the same experience to our group guests soon!
Your meaningful experience awaits you today at The Alisal. Come meet Jill and enjoy our new offerings that are sure to create lasting memories. Check out available vacation packages & specials and book your visit today.
This article was originally published in the Spring 2018 issue of Riders of the Alisal, our Ranch newsletter that covers news, events, and the friendly people of the Alisal. Subscribe to receive Alisal newsletters or connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter, to receive future issues of Riders of the Alisal.