A Love of Horses and a Dedicated Father

Phoebe and her sister, Lucy, began riding in Northwest Austin at Hobby Horse Farm as young kids. As their love of horses and the sport grew, their father, William Clark Craig who was a West Point graduate and owner of a structural engineering company in Austin, purchased 7 acres of land near Hobby Horse with the thought of boarding the girl’s horses. His inspired idea was to own acreage within a mile of Hobby Horse, so that Lucy and Phoebe could ride to their lessons.

From Simple Beginnings to the Founding of Switch Willo Stables

The original property offered a 5-stall barn, and an open riding field tucked among beautiful live oaks. William brought his riding instructor, Colonel Robins, from West Point to begin teaching the girls more formally. This lead to the founding of Switch Willo Stables in 1963. As news of the family’s riding facility spread, more and more equestrians came to Switch Willo - one of whom was Glenn Johnson. 

Continued Growth and Competitive Success

Glenn started riding at Switch Willo in 1965, at the age of 15. He brought his backyard horse with him and at 16 years old he commenced showing competitively in the Hunter/Jumper discipline. His competitive career and training expertise has contributed significantly to the growth and success of Switch Willo Stables.

As the years passed, the family continued to add acreage to the original property footprint - leading to today’s 26 beautifully treed and landscaped acres with 50 horse stalls, 4 riding arenas, numerous paddocks, and houses for their on-site staff. The original barn is now Glenn and Phoebe’s beautiful home, offering a spectacular view of the property. From its humble beginnings, Switch Willo stables has earned the distinction of being a nationally renowned show barn - the perfect place for equestrians to define, develop and achieve their goals.

Lasting Impact on the Austin Community

Glenn and Phoebe continue to participate in all aspects of the Hunter/Jumper discipline, and their influence contributes significantly to Austin’s vibrant equestrian community. They are proud that many top professional riders in Austin and central Texas started their riding careers at Switch Willo. With Glenn and Phoebe’s continued dedication, Switch Willo Stables turns out top-ranked riders & horses locally, regionally, nationally & collegiately.