McCausland Arena Is a New Chapter for Philadelphia’s Youth
After more than three decades of equestrian empowerment, Work to Ride has officially cut the ribbon on the long-awaited McCausland Arena, a state-of-the-art indoor riding facility located at the historic Chamounix Equestrian Center in West Fairmount Park. Spanning a generous 45,000 square feet, this brand-new arena is far more than bricks and beams—it’s a beacon for underserved youth in Philadelphia who, through the Work to Ride program, now have access to year-round riding, training, and competition.
On Saturday, September 27, the organization will host its first-ever Arena Polo Championship at the McCausland Arena, inviting the community to celebrate this milestone with thrilling matches, family-friendly activities, and a firsthand look at the transformative power of equestrian sports.
With expanded pasture space—from 3.5 to 5.5 acres—and upgraded facilities for lessons, clinics, and tournaments, the McCausland Arena opens a bold new chapter in the nonprofit’s mission. For Philadelphia youth who’ve grown through the saddle—building confidence, discipline, and direction—this new facility means more time in the arena, more opportunities for excellence, and more lives changed through connection, compassion, and horsemanship.
McCausland Arena Carries the Legacy of Work to Ride Forward
Founded in 1994, Work to Ride is a trailblazing 501(c)(3) nonprofit that uses equine sports and mentorship to uplift urban youth. For over 30 years, its program has served as a national model, housing students, horses, and high expectations under one banner of transformation. Situated in West Fairmount Park’s leafy expanse, the program has always thrived at the intersection of nature and nurture. Now, with the opening of McCausland Arena, it expands its reach, ensuring no season hinders growth, and no child is denied the chance to ride because of the weather.
Kareem Rosser—polo champion, author, and Executive Vice President of Work to Ride—knows the program’s impact firsthand. “Work to Ride has always been about building community, opening doors, and creating opportunities for young people who might not otherwise have them,” Rosser said. “My greatest hope is that the McCausland Arena will continue to offer the same life-changing opportunities I experienced, while strengthening the bonds of our community for years to come.”
Lezlie Hiner, Founder and Executive Director, calls the arena “31 years in the making.” It’s a culmination of vision, grit, and community support—an architectural affirmation that every young rider, regardless of background, deserves a seat in the saddle and a place to rise.
McCausland Arena Becomes a Philadelphia Landmark for Opportunity
Beyond its striking design and technical functionality, the McCausland Arena symbolizes equity in motion. It places the city of Philadelphia at the heart of a movement to democratize equestrian access—making a historically exclusive sport a space for empowerment, mentorship, and joy. From education and life skills to camaraderie and career development, the arena is both a literal and metaphorical launching pad.
The facility will host community events, training sessions, and future championships that bring people together in celebration of what Work to Ride has always stood for: empowerment through excellence. With the McCausland Arena, that mission is now amplified, weatherproofed, and proudly open to all.
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