Our Story
Mad Pegasus Ranch began as a quiet dream in 2023. The kind of dream that lives in your heart for years before it finally finds its footing.
Monja Bastan grew up in Germany and has spent her entire life around horses. From an early age, they weren't just animals. They were teachers, partners, and a constant source of freedom. For as long as she can remember, she dreamed of one day living on a ranch where the horses would be visible from the kitchen window, close enough to watch them graze, roll, and simply be horses.
Jeff Bastan always loved horses too, but never had the opportunity to own one growing up. His journey into the horse world came later, and he jumped right in with both feet.
That dream began taking shape in 2020 when Charlotte, a brave and steady mare, and Ronan, a Quarter Horse with a curious mind and courageous heart, joined the Bastan family. It quickly became clear that Ronan came alive on the trail and through obstacles. He loved having something to figure out. He loved the questions. He loved the partnership.
Charlotte shared that same bold spirit. Always the bravest when facing new challenges, she became the perfect partner for Jeff as he stepped into the horse world. Before her retirement, she patiently helped him learn, grow, and discover the joy of partnership.
Naturally, obstacles became the focus. Not as "training tools," but as invitations to build connection, confidence, and trust.
Monja and Jeff's life together began in California, bonding over motorcycle rides and a shared love of adventure. Back then, their family consisted of just two cats. Over time, that small beginning expanded into a lively ranch life filled with horses, cats, dogs, chickens, and even a cow.
Today, Jeff is the steady hand behind the scenes — the ranch caretaker, maintenance mastermind, and creative force designing and building the obstacles you'll find at Mad Pegasus Ranch. Many of those thoughtfully crafted obstacles are available for purchase, allowing others to bring confidence-building challenges home to their own horses.
Monja brings a lifetime of horse experience and a deep passion for partnership-based horsemanship. Her current focus on obstacles and western dressage reflects her belief that horses thrive when they are allowed to think, explore, and grow brave in a supportive environment.
That belief is what led to the creation of our Open Play Days: relaxed, haul-in obstacle experiences where riders can explore at their own pace. No pressure. No performance. Just an opportunity for horses and humans to build trust through curiosity and shared success.
The name Mad Pegasus reflects both the magic and the beautifully unpredictable nature of horses. Like Pegasus, they give us wings, lifting us beyond what we thought possible, carrying us toward courage, freedom, and growth. But life with horses is never perfectly polished. It's curious. Spirited. Sometimes messy. Often humbling. And sometimes… just a little bit mad. Not in chaos, but in personality. In boldness. In the way they challenge us to grow right alongside them. Because let's be honest: horses are powerful, breathtaking, and occasionally a little bit mad. And we love them for it.
Mad Pegasus Ranch is more than a place.
It is a dream lived out loud. A space where curiosity is encouraged, confidence is built, and partnerships take flight.
