Riding Lessons at Mountin' Hopes

Riding Lessons

When are riding lessons offered?

Each rider attends a minimum of one hour per week of scheduled lesson time and lessons are in groups of 2 or 3. Private lessons are available. Most riders will attend all sessions, but others elect to attend less than the full year.

(Click to view 2010 calendar)

(Call 828-689-2291)

(Lesson attendance)

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.
The beginning of the mounted lesson is typically dedicated to stretching and warming up.
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.
The last part of the class often consists of playing a game on horseback that supports the therapeutic goals set by the rider.
When weather permits riders may be given the opportunity to enjoy trail rides on our property.
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?

One hour group lesson=$35.00
One hour Private lesson=$60.00
Each rider also pays an annual $30 registration fee, due each calendar year in January, before the rider’s first returning session, or before a new rider’s initial evaluation.
All riders seeking financial assistance must complete the Scholarship Application Form. If scholarships are available, the rider will be given notice of the fee relief being provided, if awarded. Riders failing to adhere to the rules of the scholarship will be withdrawn from the program.
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. If you, or someone you know would like to make a contribution to the riding program, follow this link (go to donate now page)

What about the weather?

The Center's indoor riding arena and outdoor ring make it possible for classes to be offered year round. If inclement weather prevents a normal mounted riding lesson, alternative ground lesson will be provided.
For cancellation due to severe winter weather, please refer to the attendance policy (link to policy as above).

Instructors

Instructors are all NARHA registered.
Contract Instructors: Barb Folan Mary Flora LeAnn Boggs
Kathy Blossfield

How do I sign up?

Step 1:

Forms necessary for enrollment are available below or you may Call 828-689-2291 .

(Rider Registration Forms)

Mail the completed Application Form with the $30 registration fee to Mountin' Hopes, P.O. Box 387, Mars Hill NC 28754.
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.

This is Tonkka, He is one of our Therapy Horse. Click here to meet the rest of the herd

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