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Riding Lessons
When are
riding lessons offered?
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Our riding
lessons are scheduled in three 12 week Semesters throughout the
year, Spring Semester starts in mid January. Summer Semester
starts in May and Fall Semester starts in September. Most riders
ride in all 12 weeks of the semester but some choose to ride in
either the first or second half of a semester.
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What does a
riding lesson consist of?
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In a typical
recreational class the first 10 to 15 minutes will be allocated
for the rider to help the trained volunteers groom and tack the
horse. The level of the riders participation in this phase in
entirely dependent on his or her ability.
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The beginning
of the mounted lesson is typically dedicated to stretching and
warming up.
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The
instructor will then work on teaching horsemanship skills,
usually by first reviewing what had been accomplished in the
previous lesson and going on from there.
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The last part
of the class often consists of playing a game on horseback that
supports the therapeutic goals set by the rider.
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When weather
permits riders often are given the opportunity to enjoy trail
rides on our property.
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After the
riding time is over, a rider then has the opportunity to help
lead the horse back to the barn and help remove the tack.
How much do
lessons cost?
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One hour group lesson=$30.00< for 6 weeks (one session) of group lessons=$180.00
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One hour Private
lesson=$60.00< for 6 weeks (one session) of private lessons=$360.00
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Each rider
also pays an annual $30 registration fee, due each calendar year
in January or before a new rider’s initial evaluation.
- All riders seeking financial assistance must request 2008 financial assistance packets. This is an annual requirement
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Limited
scholarship aid is available. Please check the appropriate spot
on the Application Form to request the Scholarship Application.
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The full fee
for the Semester is payable before the Semester begins.
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Fees charged
represent only a fraction of the actual cost of a lesson. We are
working to keep our classes affordable to all. Lots of
fundraising goes on behind the scenes to make this possible.
What about the
weather?
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The Center's
indoor riding arena and outdoor ring make it possible for
classes to be offered year round. Classes are cancelled only if
roads are unsafe for travel or in the event of thunderstorms.
Instructors offer safe, unmounted activities if classes have
assembled but weather prevents riding.
Cancellation messages will be available on extension #1 at 828-689-2291 .
How do I sign
up?
Step 1:
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Forms
necessary for enrollment are available below or you may contact
our Program Coordinator,
Rebecca Anderson .
(Click to view/print registration and release forms)
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Mail the
completed Application Form with the $30 registration fee to
Mountin' Hopes, P.O. Box 387, Mars Hill NC 28754.
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Other forms
should be mailed in as soon as possible to the same address. The
Rider's Medical History and Physician's Statement must be
completed and signed by the rider's physician; allow sufficient
time to have this form completed.
(Each Session
has a deadline for filing applications, which may be as much as
three weeks before the Session begins. This allows time for new
rider assessment interviews, scheduling of classes, and
assignment of volunteer helpers for each class.)
Step 2:
- Visit our center for a new rider evaluation.
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