Trusted Horse Retirement and Polo Pony Turnout Since 1972
Generations of Horsemen • Natural Pastures • Dedicated Staff
About Chester Bar Farm
Chester Bar Farm is one of the premier horse retirement and turnout facilities in the United States. Surrounded by Blue Ridge State Park, the farm offers a peaceful setting where the only sounds are those of nature.
Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Chester Bar Farm is located eight miles outside Sparta, North Carolina, just off the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. The farm lies approximately 30 miles south of the Virginia border and is easily accessible from both I-77 and I-81.
Since 1972, Chester Bar Farm has specialized in the care of retired horses and polo ponies. Our family has been raising, training, and caring for horses of all disciplines for five generations, bringing deep knowledge, patience, and respect to every horse entrusted to us.
The farm encompasses over 450 acres of rolling pastures planted with Natural Bluegrass, White Dutch Clover, and Timothy Grass. The land features magnificent shade trees, flowing freshwater creeks, and ponds—an ideal environment for retired horses to relax, graze, and thrive. Pastures are fertilized and maintained year-round, and each large pasture (approximately 80 acres) includes run-in sheds that comfortably accommodate horses seeking shelter. Freshwater tubs are available in multiple locations throughout every pasture.
We have taken great care to preserve a natural, safe, and nurturing environment for your horse’s retirement. Every horse at Chester Bar Farm is cared for with exceptional attention, professionalism, and affection by our experienced facility manager, caretakers, and veterinarians.
Chester Bar Farm Staff
Roger Maines was just 12 years old when George Oliver—widely regarded as one of the great horsemen in history—purchased and shaped the land that would become Chester Bar Farm, a true haven for horses.
Under George Oliver’s mentorship, Roger learned to ride, train, and care for horses with skill and compassion. Roger has lived on the farm his entire life with his wife, Mary, in a home overlooking the pastures. His daughter, Robin Greene, has worked alongside him as Assistant Manager for more than 15 years.
Each day begins with an early-morning check of the horses and ends with a late-afternoon inspection. Roger and Robin are essential to what makes Chester Bar Farm so special. Their kindness, attentiveness, and deep bond with the horses are evident in every aspect of the farm’s care.
We are truly fortunate to have Roger Maines and Robin Greene caring for our beloved horses.
