Darlington School is proud to announce a new partnership with Double W Farms, a premiere Hunter/Jumper training facility, to offer Upper School boarding students the opportunity to pursue high-level equestrian training alongside a world-class college preparatory education.
“This partnership provides our boarding students with access to a truly exceptional Hunter/Jumper program,” said Matt Peer, assistant head of school for enrollment management at Darlington. “It’s the perfect combination of academic excellence and competitive equestrian training.”
Located just 15 minutes from Darlington’s campus, Double W Farms sits on 250 picturesque acres in Rome, Ga. The luxury equestrian facility features two newly built 12-stall barns – each complete with wash racks, secure tack rooms, and restrooms – along with a 195’ x 105’ arena with GGT footing, miles of scenic riding trails, and a full suite of amenities including a feed room, commercial laundry, veterinary and farrier workstations, and dedicated storage for hay and shavings. Plans for spring 2026 include an additional arena and expanded turnout space to accommodate a growing training program.
“The principles of commitment, hard work, and drive can be found at both Darlington and at Double W, so this is a really unique opportunity for equestrian-minded students to be able to thrive not only in the classroom, but also in the ring,” said Grace Welborn (’15), owner of Double W Farms and head trainer. “The opportunity to provide space for competitive equestrians to grow while at Darlington is a full-circle opportunity for me as an alumna of the school, and I couldn’t be more grateful.”
Currently, Double W provides training to three seniors who are boarding students at Darlington, all of whom have been training with Welborn for the past two years.
“Double W Farms has truly made a lasting impact on my riding journey,” said Darlington senior Sydney Madden. “Thanks to Grace’s support, I've been able to continue competing and even experience boarding school life. Grace is incredibly understanding of my busy school schedule, allowing for flexible showing and lesson arrangements that fit my needs. I can’t say enough about the impeccable care my horses receive, both in the arena and out, and everything Grace does to ensure the best results!”
About the Trainer
Grace began riding at age 3 and has trained and shown extensively in Hunters, Jumpers, and Equitation. In college, she rode on Auburn University’s IHSA Equestrian Team and competed at top-tier events, including WIHS/NAL Jumper Finals. After several years as a professional rider and assistant trainer in Alpharetta, Ga., Grace returned home to Rome to establish Double W Farms in 2023.
“I’ve always been very passionate about horses and was very fortunate to grow up riding and showing. The horses have taught me invaluable life lessons and still do,” said Grace. “I never thought I’d ever end up working in the horse world, but after taking my first professional training job, I never looked back. From my earliest time in the saddle through today, this sport has brought me some of my best friends and greatest memories. I even met my fiancé at a horse show. It has become so much more than a sport or a job for me; I really am living my biggest childhood dream through Double W.”
Grace says her younger sister, Molly Welborn (’22), was key in the creation of Double W with the W’s representing the sisters and their love for the horses. Molly, also a Darlington alumna, began riding at age 13 and has since competed at prestigious national finals including Washington, Harrisburg, and Devon. She continues to compete as an amateur on the “A and AA” circuit in the 3’3”/3’6” A/O Hunters, Adult Equitation, and Low A/O Jumpers while pursuing her degree at the University of North Georgia.
Program Highlights
Through this partnership, Darlington boarding students can train at Double W Farms under Grace’s instruction, gaining individualized attention and exposure to top-level competition. The program emphasizes classic equitation principles, horsemanship, and goal-oriented training tailored to each rider and horse.
Students will have opportunities to compete at leading equestrian venues including:
Qualifying events may include:
Sherry Weaver, the mother of Darlington senior Zoe Weaver, said her daughter has enjoyed working with Grace and they have been impressed by the facilities at Double W. “The barn is new and clean and airy, and the ring is even and well maintained,” said Sherry. “The horses are well cared for – Grace is great about being very pro-active about their health and she takes care of everything. The grooms are friendly and helpful. Lessons are private – Grace works with each girl’s individual needs and tries to help them achieve their goals in the sport.”
Teri Borders, the mother of participant Mary Hanson Borders, agreed. “We wish this program had been in place when my daughter started at Darlington her sophomore year!” she said. “Mary Hanson has gained so much confidence riding at Double W and with Grace as her trainer. This program will develop students that want to ride competitively, especially as they look to further their sport in college.”
Boarding & Training Options
Double W Farms offers a full-service boarding and training program designed to meet the needs of serious riders and their horses. Monthly board includes individualized turnout, professional care, and coordination of farrier and veterinary services. The full training package provides unlimited professional rides and lessons to support competitive goals.
Join the Program
Prospective students and families interested in Darlington’s Riding Program may contact the school’s Admission Office at admission@darlingtonshcool.org to learn more and set up private tours of both Darlington and Double W Farms.
For more information and updates, please follow Double W Farms on social media:
Instagram: @double.w.farms
Facebook: Double W Farms
