Riding Program

Lessons

For beginners If you are wondering what it feels like to ride, and you are not entirely sure that you want to take up this sport permanently, the Held Equestrian Center staff can provide an introductory private lesson or two to get you started. Subject to availability, you can learn the basics of horsemanship, including tacking up, riding, grooming, and stable management. You can then progress to more advanced riding with help from one of our experienced instructors.

Depending on your ability and dedication to the sport, you can learn the basics of riding in six to eight months. After this, you can decide whether you want to develop your skills further in a particular discipline, including hunters, jumpers, dressage, combined training, or western.

For experienced riders If you have experience in riding competitively, the Held Equestrian Center staff can help you take your riding to the next level.  Additionally, those who wish to train for their international trainers' passport may train for their British Horse Society examinations at the facility.

Our school horses  Our school horses are all types, but mostly Quarter Horses, Thoroughbreds, and Thoroughbred crosses. Their average age is 9 years old and most are around 16 hands. They are all capable of doing basic dressage work on the flat and some jumping, though we do have a few who specialize in one particular area, such as Bronson, our Third Level dressage schoolmaster.  All of our school horses have been generously donated to our program.

Clinics Clinics and symposiums with nationally or regionally known trainers are offered regularly at the Held Equestrian Center. 

Day and summer camps The Held Equestrian Center offers day camps during the academic year and summer riding camps geared to students of all ages and skill levels.

Horse purchase assistance The Held Equestrian Center staff will assist students who wish to purchase a horse by introducing contacts within the riding community, both in and out of state and abroad.

Children We take especial delight in welcoming children to the world of horses and riding. Naturally, safety is more strongly emphasized than ever when children are being taught.