Merry Harding was born into a family of horseman. By the age of two she had her first pony, Surprise, who was affectionately known as the best babysitter a mother could have. It was realized early on that Merry could spend all day riding the horses at her parent's neighbor Farm in Upper Brookville. She often was the test rider for all the young Thoroughbreds coming off the track to see what their abilities were. At an early age she learned that a great rider is one who makes the hardest horses look easy. Merry had the opportunity to become a  working student to Eddie Horowitz when she was 11 years old. This experience gave her the ability to work with some of the top horses in the country and experience showing at many A rated shows on catch rides. After graduating high school and attending two years of college, Merry was again drawn to the show ring only this time working for Pine Hollow Stables and working with Eddie and his many clients. After leading a nomadic lifestyle, of one show to the next, Merry decided to lay down roots and had the opportunity to work for Brookville Animal Hospital as a Vet Tech and office manager, however always staying connected to the horse world. After 12 years at Brookville Animal Hospital, Merry, who was encouraged by her husband Kevin, branched out and took the position of Assistant Manager and Trainer at  Bright Side Farm. She was once again working with young students and young horses which always came naturally to her. Three years later,  it was time to spread her wings again and with continued support of her husband they opened Northern Ridge Stables in Watermill, NY. One will always find a welcoming smile and encouraging word at the farm, for Merry understands only too well that hard work and dedication can accomplish and strives to instill the same ethics in her staff and students.