Indies Only: A Passion for Horses Leads to Successful Farm

Susan Kovalik describes horses as her passion and a part of who she is. She opened Camelot Farm in 1998 to share her life-long passion. Within six months the farm became her full-time job, something Kovalik had never envisioned.

In 2003, moved to its current location: 55 Chippewa Drive. This location includes 18 acres of land, a 200x100 foot indoor arena and can board 55-60 horses, Kovalik said. Camelot Farm offers riding lessons, boarding, schooling shows, horse sales and summer camps.

In her riding lessons, Kovalik strives for “quality not quantity” and recommends private lessons for beginners. When the rider reaches a certain level, then they may choose a group lesson, Kovalik said.

“I’m a stickler for basics and my lessons encourage the total package,” Kovalik said, meaning that students learn to groom and take care of their horse. “I hope they love riding and in the long term may purchase their own horse.”

Kovalik said she tries to make riding lessons financially accessible for anyone who wants to ride. She offers riding lessons both privately and through a park district program and has 12 well-trained school horses for students to ride.

Camelot Farm offers two summer camps for riders of all levels ages 6-15. The cost is $240. The sessions are capped at 20 students.

“The summer camp is very popular and offers beginners a great opportunity to get their feet wet and see if they like it,” Kovalik said.

Colleen Patsavas’ daughter, Olivia, 17, has taken lessons at Camelot Farm for seven years and Kovalik assisted Patsavas in purchasing two horses.

“Olivia was progressing quickly after riding for a few years. We were looking for a more advanced farm,” said Patsavas of how they chose Camelot Farm. "The farm is 45 minutes away but we don’t mind the drive because we are so happy there.”

Kovalik is “a horse-whisperer,” said Patsavas, who also takes lessons. “She knows what to say and when to say it. She tells you exactly what you need to do so you can think for yourself and make decisions.”

Patsavas described Olivia as “quiet and introverted."

"She tried all kinds of sports but once she rode a horse, she was a changed person," she said.

Confidence, physical and mental strength and awareness of surroundings are some of the benefits of riding that Patsavas witnesses in her daughter.

Camelot Farm is Olivia’s “home away from home….It’s such a strong community and embraces the ‘it takes a village’ idea,” said Patsavas.

Lessons are taught seven days per week during day and evening hours. A half-hour private lesson is $40. An hour-long group lesson is $35 – this option is not offered for beginners.

Camelot Farm is located at 55 Chippewa Drive. Contact the farm at 630-551-0145.