Sapphire Ribbons
641-430-9901
At Sapphire Ribbons, our mission is to develop confident riders and well-trained horses through correct fundamentals, consistency, and quality horsemanship. From first-time riders, 4H members, and local show competitors to Regional and National-level exhibitors, we are committed to building a strong foundation that allows every horse and rider to reach their full potential.
We believe great horses are developed, not made overnight. Through thoughtful training, patience, and attention to detail, we strive to produce willing, dependable, and competitive partners while fostering a lifelong appreciation for the Arabian horse. Our goal is to create opportunities for riders of all ages to learn, grow, and succeed in and out of the show ring, while helping strengthen the future of our industry one horse and rider at a time.
Sapphire Ribbons Facility
Sapphire Ribbons features a top-of-the-line facility designed to provide the ultimate environment for horse care and rider success. Our premium barn boasts spacious stabling with select heated stalls for specialized care, a clean, modern wash rack for effortless grooming, and secure individual turnouts to ensure your horse can stretch their legs safely. Riders can enjoy uninterrupted, weather-independent practice inside our spacious indoor arena, while those looking for a change of pace can explore scenic trails perfect for relaxing trail riding. Every detail of our facility has been thoughtfully built from the ground up to ensure a safe, organized, and premier experience for both you and your horse.
-
Top-of-the-Line Facility: Quality construction optimized for safety and comfort.
-
Indoor Arena: A spacious, professionally maintained arena for year-round, all-weather riding.
-
Individual Turnouts: Secure, personalized turnout spaces for safe, stress-free outdoor time.
-
Select Heated Stalls: Premium stabling options to guarantee extra warmth.
-
On-Site Wash Rack: Modern, well-equipped wash bay for professional-grade grooming and post-workout care.
-
Scenic Trails: Beautiful trail-riding paths right on the property for conditioning and relaxation.
Who is Sapphire Ribbons
At Sapphire Ribbons, we believe great horsemanship is built on experience, trust, patience, and a genuine love for the horse. Leading our training program is Erin Runde, a lifelong horsewoman with a deep-rooted connection to the equestrian community and a passion for helping both horses and riders reach their full potential.
Erin’s love of horses is part of a family legacy that spans generations. Her grandfather, Kenneth Ranney, was an accomplished horseman and competitor, helping establish a tradition of horsemanship and showing that continues through Erin and the next generation of her family.
Over the years, Erin has developed extensive experience in the show ring, particularly with Arabian and Half-Arabian horses, competing in disciplines including English pleasure, country English pleasure, native costume, pleasure driving, and other performance classes. Her experience has included competition at the Iowa State Fair and other major horse shows. Historical Iowa State Fair records document Erin competing successfully in Arabian and Half-Arabian classes, including first-place finishes.
Today, Erin brings that experience to Sapphire Ribbons with a simple philosophy: every horse and every rider deserves an individualized program.
Training With Purpose
Erin works with horses and riders at a variety of levels, from those learning the fundamentals of horsemanship to experienced exhibitors preparing for the show ring.
Her approach focuses on:
-
Building confidence between horse and rider
-
Developing correct fundamentals and effective communication
-
Creating a strong foundation for long-term success
-
Preparing horses and riders for the show ring
-
Improving balance, presentation, and performance
-
Teaching riders the responsibilities of complete horsemanship
-
Developing programs around the individual horse and rider
At Sapphire Ribbons, training is about more than simply getting a horse ready to compete. It is about developing a partnership.
Erin believes that the best results come when riders understand not only how to ride, but how to care for, communicate with, and respect their horse.
A Family Tradition. A New Generation.
Sapphire Ribbons represents the continuation of a family passion for horses that has been passed from one generation to the next. Erin is proud to bring that experience into a new chapter—creating a place where riders can learn, horses can develop, and families can build their own memories and traditions.
Whether your goal is to learn to ride, develop your horsemanship, prepare for competition, or take your horse to the next level, Erin and the Sapphire Ribbons team are committed to helping you build a stronger partnership with your horse.
Sapphire Ribbons — More than riding. It's a way of life.
Travel/Airport Info
Travel & Lodging Information
For visitors traveling to Sapphire Ribbons, Mason City offers excellent local lodging alongside access to major regional airports located within a three-hour drive. Whether you are hauling a horse in for an event or flying in from out of state, the local infrastructure easily accommodates your travel needs.
Major Commercial Airports
-
Rochester International Airport (RST): Roughly a 1.5-hour drive northeast, serving as a convenient regional hub with excellent national connections.
-
Des Moines International Airport (DSM): Roughly a 2-hour drive south via Interstate 35, offering extensive daily domestic flights.
-
Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP): Roughly a 2-hour and 15-minute drive north via Interstate 35, providing a massive hub for major domestic and international airlines.
Top Local Accommodations
-
The Historic Park Inn Hotel: Located in downtown Mason City, this boutique property is the world's only remaining hotel designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.
-
Hampton Inn & Suites Mason City: A modern, highly rated hotel located directly off 4th Street SW, offering comfortable rooms and hot breakfast.
-
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Mason City: A clean, contemporary stay located on the west side of town, featuring an indoor pool and excellent amenities.
-
Clear Lake Lodging Options: Located just 15 minutes west of Mason City, nearby hotels like the AmericInn and Best Western Holiday Lodge offer fantastic options close to the lake.
