Horse shows are the best “first” outing for students. We attend approximately one per month. They offer a very controlled atmo-sphere where the teachers are allowed to coach from the side lines. At a show, students usually show one level below what they are doing in their lessons. An example would be if your child was learning how to canter, he/she would show in the walk-trot classes, jumping 2’ at home, we would still show in the cross rails class. Horseshows have divisions: some are based on the rider (equitation), some are based on the pony, (pleasure and hunter). Often 2 or 3 people can show the same pony because they are in different divisions. Sometimes the same pony can go in a jumping equitation class 2 or 3 times, with a different child each time. Usually the student meets us at the show, dressed and ready to ride unless they need to hitch a ride with the van. Remember to bring snacks, lunch, and/or money, shows can take a long time! The judge is looking for control, relaxation, and good position (called equitation). All riders in a class with no jump-ing go in the ring at the same time (On the flat). Indicators of being in control are having the correct diagonal at the trot, the correct lead at the canter and being able to keep appropriate spacing. In the classes judged on the pony, (some-times called “hacks”), the judge looks to see a relaxed, pretty way of going and a pony that does whatever it is told to do without a fuss.
When it is time for jumping, each rider goes in the ring alone and performs over a course he/she has already memorized and gone over with the teacher The judge is watching for heels down, eyes up, and good turns at a steady pace, often people get going too fast. The teachers will decide which horse or pony each student will ride because they know the animals “show” behavior and therefore can match-up the best rider/pony combinations.
• SUMMER RIDING PROGRAM•
The Summer program at Rivendell is a great way to spend the summer learning and enjoying the sport of riding. The sessions are all day, running Monday through Friday. These children will come in the morning, bring their lunch, and ride twice a day. We have time to explore all facets of riding: jumping, cross country, dressage, trail riding, lunging, games, ground work—time for fun and lots of learn?ing as well. We will split into as many groups as necessary, based on the riders abilities.
Also available throughout the summer are half-day programs, divided by age and ability. One day is Dressage flat work, one day is Gymnas?tics, one day is a Trailride, one day is Courses, and the last day is either Games or a second Trailride. The more advanced students will also incorporate cross -country galloping and conditioning.
The Baby Beginners program (age 4-6) is a two day afternoon pro?gram.
Regular weekly lessons will also continue throughout the summer.
• How To Sign Up For a Horse Show•
Discuss the show with your teacher, if they O.K. it, put your name on the clipboard sign-up sheet for that horse show (in the main barn). Adults can pay their own entry fees when they arrive at the show grounds. Children will be entered and paid for by Rivendell —these entry fees will appear on the next monthly billing.
Costs:
One class (such as leadline) is $3500 (this includes the use of the pony! vanning! coaching/braiding) *plus entry fee. A day at the show is $6500 (this includes the use of the pony/vanning/coaching/braiding) *plus entry fees. These fees will be charged on the next monthly
billing.
The Rivendell Jumper shows are different—The only cost at this show is the entry fee ($1000 per class). They are held, weather permitting. Memorial Day, Labor Day and the Day after Thanksgiving.
• What to Wear•
Children-Jodphurs (preferably rust or cream) and jodphur boots. Boots pol?ished-garters optional. The pants are worn over top of the boots and secured with heel straps.
Adults-Black or brown high boots. Rust or cream breeches. Turtleneck or button down oxford type shirt (white, pale pink, or pale blue) with a tie.
Riding jacket-navy/black/dark green/grey Rivendell has many jackets avail?able to rent for $400 (to cover the cost of dry cleaning)
A black hard hat with harness.
Brown or black gloves, and if needed a dark jumping bat.
Conservative, neat and tidy is the look you want. Long hair is braided or in a hair net, all whisps tucked in!
• Clinics / Lessons / Modified Hunter Paces / Official Hunt Trail Rides•
A hunter pace or trail ride involves a reservation and a prepayment of entry (usually also includes lunch) at least one week prior to the event. Paces run in teams of 2 or 3 people. They are timed over a course of between 3-7 miles jumps are approx. 2’6”. Modified Paces guarantee a way to go around every jump, they are good for children because they are also usually on the shorter side.
Trailrides are sponsored by hunts and trail associations. They go out in groups based on ability and are an enjoyable way to see the countryside from horseback.