Riding Instructor Magazine - Fall 2021 by americanridinginst

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Official Publication of The American Riding Instructors Association

Fall 2021

4 Annual College & University Guide th

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6 A Room Full Of Memories By Didi Arias

8 L egal focus Avoid Disputes When Buying a Horse Online Julie I. Fershtman, Attorney at Law

10 B usiness matters Are Thief Horses Eating Your Profits? By Doug Emerson

12 Sport psychology Ten Tips to Teaching Students to Learn

Laura King CHt, NLP, Life & Performance Coach

15 S port psychology The Power To Win Is Inside You Laura King’s New Online Course Is Helping Riders Achieve Their Personal Best Laura King CHt, NLP, Life & Performance Coach

30 C ameo’s Cauldron LEARNING FROM OUR ANIMAL FRIENDS By Cameo Miller

31 Sponsor Spotlight 33 What’s new

Official Publication of The American Riding Instructors Association

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Member ARIA recognizes that equestrian headgear that does not meet the current ASTM standard is not safe, although certain equestrian activities pictured in this magazine may not adhere to these requirements. Riding Instructor is the Official Publication of the American Riding Instructors Association. For Advertising Rates & Data, please contact the publisher. The editor of Riding Instructor reserves the right to edit reasonably all copy submitted, and all contributions become the property of Riding Instructor. The Editor does not hold herself responsible for, nor does she necessarily agree with, the opinions expressed in Riding Instructor. Riding Instructor assumes no responsibility for loss or damage to unsolicited photographs or manuscripts. Reproductions without permission are strictly prohibited by copyright laws. While endeavoring to accept only reliable advertising, Riding Instructor will not be responsible to the public for advertisements, and the right to decline or discontinue any advertisement is reserved. ARICP Advisory Board Debi DeTurk Peloso Denny Emerson Julie I. Fershtman, Esq. Charlotte Brailey Kneeland * Founder Gayle Lampe Sarah Sliva, MD Linda Tellington-Jones

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Fall 2021 | Riding Instructor

A Room Full Of Memories By Didi Arias Be it a small cupboard or a room luxurious

hosts a virtual club of tack room creatives

live. It can also be a place to sit with your

enough for a home décor magazine feature,

that happily share their photo boards and

thoughts, lick (or bandage) your wounds,

the tack room is such an essential area in a

blogs of their handy blanket hangers, clever

and even have a good cry. I can think of no

stable that even Merriam-Webster denotes

leg wrap cupboards and bits ´n´ bob holders.

other room that has more multi-purpose at-

dictionary space to it. Though intended for

As many horse people are on a shoestring

tributes. As for me, forget taking me to the

the storage and maintenance of riding kit,

budget, you can find corner-cutting ways

spa - just plunk me down in a stable with a

they have much more character and impor-

to recycle there, too. Got an old western bit

great tack room and I´m good.

tance than just being an equipment depos-

you no longer use? No problem! You can

itory. They are awesome places with heady

give it new life as a toilet roll holder: horse

You can learn a lot about the person by the

aromas, a sense of those who use them, and

people are the most resourceful of folks. In

tack room they keep and I´d much rather see

are the home of an assortment of curiosities

fact, some are so very proud of their tack

hard-earned instructor certificates than a

and memorabilia. Whenever I visit a riding

rooms that they make videos of them, so no

Wall of Bondage. Though things don´t have

establishment, I cannot resist but ask to

matter what current restrictions you are liv-

to be fancy, discerning individuals such as

take a peek at the tack room, after seeing

ing under, there are online tack room tours

ourselves cannot help but cast a scouting

the horses first, of course.

on YouTube for you to visit.

eye over another´s tack to notice if it is in good nick, and then make judgment. It’s

Having a tack room automatically en-

While some tack rooms are merely practi-

a bad habit that comes with the territory.

rols you in a tribe of those who share your

cal, others act as the facility´s social hub.

Even more than a collection of ribbons and

equine passion. Tribal members are con-

I´ve sat in tack room lounges, tack room

trophies, photographs on the wall are much

stantly on the search for efficient storage

classrooms and tack room reading rooms,

more interesting, some even historic. You

ideas as they too have amassed the same

all adding to the escapism we enjoy when

may learn that the instructor that you´ve

ton of equipment that you have. Pinterest

we step in to the world where our horses

known for years had a previous life as a

Fall 2021 | Riding Instructor

circus rider, and wait…that yellowed news clipping… isn´t that

This is probably a good time of year to have a clear-out, for like any

“Secretariat” in the photo?

stable owner, I´m a bit of a hoarder. But all those treasured memories – I´m not certain that I can get rid of the tangible just yet.

Outside of the obvious general use, a tack room can also have an

Perhaps I´ll hold on to those treasures for a bit longer.

archival purpose, as I once found out when a friend and I were invited to visit the stately home of a noted equestrian family. The “tack room” literally was a jaw-dropping affair as the structure was huge, housing a collection of antique carriages and harness. There were literally walls of saddles, bridles and rows of bits, both rusty and shiny, all collected over generations. Framed tour posters showed the family´s high school horses and riders performing

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Didi Arias is a Level 3 ARIA Certified Instructor and national dressage judge and teacher, who resides in Almeria, Spain.

under the spotlights. It had a feel of a museum, or dare I say a “tack room church”, as we realized our voices lowered as we took it all in. The only other time I was struck with such silent reverence in a horse capacity was when I went to Vienna to see the Spanish Riding School. In a way, any tack room is a sort of museum, for it documents daily life and work as it pays homage to the horse and its use. Within are objects that house a culture, connect different disciplines, backgrounds, insights and perspectives. In steep contrast to the one in the stately home, my own tack space is very humble and practical, but likewise there is a lifetime of memories in it, including my ´70s hunt seat equitation saddle that travelled over the Atlantic with me. The brass name plate still has my maiden name on it. From working to show tack, jumping, dressage, western, side-saddle – this tack room witnessed a variety of activity in nearly forty years. As it has all lovingly been cared for, it has lasted decades, thus holding the essences of the horses that wore it. A dig in to an old trunk may unearth keepsakes such as a tiny halter from a baby now in her twenties, a faded ribbon around a lock of mane hair and a folder of drawings done by childish hands. Just little, sentimental things, stored for no reason other than that. This past summer we had a welcome reunion with three nowgrown men who spent much of their youth in our riding school. After greeting the horses, now new faces, they automatically migrated to the tack room where they once hung out. At first they were silent and you could see them remembering, leaning against a familiar saddle or rubbing their hands along the bristles of a brush,

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one taking in a big, long sniff. They smiled as they recognized the

is important - for us and for you!

labels on the bridle racks, as the horses of long ago still have their

ARIA communicates primarily by e-mail with its members. Please make sure we have a working e-mail address for you.

names on them (I never could take those names down). Jovial reminiscing ensued of past rides, boyhood antics, favorite mounts and the ones that dashed their pride. They spent the month of August riding and would inevitably end their sessions in the tack room. As the summer season came to an end, they poignantly not only

If you’re not sure, write to us at aria@riding-instructor.com and let us know your current e-mail address. Thanks!

thanked us for the rides but also for the memories.

Fall 2021 | Riding Instructor

Legal focus

Avoid Disputes When Buying a Horse Online Julie I. Fershtman, Attorney at Law www.equinelaw.net When people buy horses, disputes can fol-

take great risks. A horse that appears bomb-

in-person evaluations as they can be diffi-

low. When people buy horses online, the

proof and obedient in an online video might

cult, time-consuming, and expensive.

potential for a dispute can be even greater

have been longed for several hours, or even

as horse buyers are known to rely on ad-

drugged. Also, unscrupulous sellers have

With some effort and using today’s tech-

vertisements from total strangers, without

been suspected of advertising a different

nology, buyers can have the horse evaluated

evaluating the horse and without using

horse than the one the buyer later receives.

without being physically present. No matter where the horse may be, prospective buyers

contracts to document the transaction. This article discusses some problems that can occur with online equine sale transactions

Problem: Not Arranging a Professional Assessment of the Horse

chase veterinary examination (preferably one who is unfamiliar with the horse and its

and a few ideas for avoiding them.

Problem: Falling in Love With a Horse Based Only on a Photo or Video

can always hire a veterinarian for a pre-pur-

Typically, when horse buyers find a great

owner or trainer) and drug screen. Buyers can

prospect in their community, they visit the

also hire a trainer or equine professional to

horse in person, sometimes a few times, be-

examine the horse for them, even using face-

fore deciding to buy. By comparison, when

time or similar systems while the evaluation

People who buy a horse based only on an

buyers shop online and find horses that

is in progress. When that happens, buyers

online photo or video, without undertak-

are situated thousands of miles away, the

can ask their hired professional or the seller

ing any investigation before the purchase,

work gets harder. Some buyers prefer to skip

on-the-spot questions about the horse.

Fall 2021 | Riding Instructor

Problem: Not Using a Written Contract

buyers can demand to see a copy of the

for breach of contract, fraud, violations

papers before agreeing to buy the horse,

of deceptive trade practice laws, uniform

With online horse sales, handshake deals

and the contract can require the seller to

commercial code laws, and others. Still,

bring extra risks. Verbal contract disputes

attach copies of all pages of the horse’s

litigation can be very expensive, and the

are rarely easy to resolve because the parties

registration papers, with a requirement

outcome is not always certain. Horse buyers

cannot agree on the contract’s terms. When

that the seller will sign them over to the

who protect themselves before entering

these disputes become legal battles, resolv-

buyer.

into the transaction may not only find themselves happier with the horse they

ing them is never quick, easy, or cheap. • Soundness and veterinary history. Sellers

bought, but they may also have avoided a

Written contracts cannot prevent all equine

who insist they are selling a “completely

sale disputes from occurring, but these con-

sound horse with no vices or bad habits”

tracts can narrow the disputes considerably.

should not hesitate to put it writing,

This article does not constitute legal advice.

if the buyer requests. With nothing in

When questions arise based on specific situa-

Of the many elements to consider for an

writing to prove that the seller made

tions, direct them to a knowledgeable attorney.

equine sale contract, here are a few:

these statements, it can be very difficult

legal dispute.

to prove that they were made. • Description of the horse sold. The sale contract can describe the horse being sold,

• Examination. If the seller has allowed

such as the registered name, breed, reg-

the buyer a certain amount of time to

istration numbers, markings, age, and

arrange for a pre-purchase veterinary ex-

height. This could prevent the problem of

amination and professional evaluation,

a buyer who bought a horse off of a web-

the contract can specify this as well as

site, only to suspect that the seller deliv-

the seller’s agreement to cooperate and

ered a different horse.

make the horse available. Buyers may want to await the results of the drug

• Papers. Buyers can protect themselves by

screen until they agree to buy the horse,

specifying in the contract that the seller

and the contract can allow for that extra

has the horse’s breed registration papers

period of time.

and will transfer them to the buyer within a specified period of time. Better still,

• Payments and Deposits. If the buyer has paid the seller a deposit, the contract can specify that amount and whether or not it is refundable if the sale does not go through. • State Law. Because online horse sales often involve people from different states, it helps to identify which state’s law applies to the transaction. For equine sales in states with seller disclosure laws, such as California, Kentucky, or Florida, be aware that these state laws impact contract language.

Avoiding Disputes The

phrase

“caveat

emptor”

(buyer

beware) is not meant to suggest that horse buyers have no legal rights when they feel cheated by sellers. Buyers do have rights. Julie I. Fershtman, Attorney at Law

About the author: Julie Fershtman, is one of the nation’s most experienced Equine Law practitioners. A lawyer for 35 years, she is a Shareholder with Foster Swift Collins & Smith, PC, in Michigan. She has successfully litigated cases in 20 jurisdictions nationwide and has tried cases in 4 states. She is listed in The Best Lawyers in America and received the American Bar Association (ABA) “Excellence in the Advancement of Animal Law Award.” Her speaking engagements span 29 states. Her latest book is the 372-page book published in 2019 by the ABA called “Equine Law & Horse Sense.” This book has won four national awards. Find it on Amazon, and look for the horse on the cover. For more information, please visit www.equinelaw.net

Buyers can, and sometimes do, sue sellers

Fall 2021 | Riding Instructor

Business matters

Are Thief Horses Eating Your Profits? By Doug Emerson Unlike a horse thief, a thief horse steals your potential to earn profit from the space and resources it occupies. That stall could be used for: Boarding Horse for training Lesson Horse Brood Mare A speculation horse “bought right” An empty stall for attracting the next opportunity In economic terms, there is an opportunity cost for every decision you make in your equine business. An opportunity cost is defined as the cost of something in terms of an opportunity foregone. As an example, a lesson horse that requires a skilled rider and is used for only 5 lessons a month does not generate enough income to cover the basic expenses of labor, feed, bedding, farrier, and veterinary expense. The foregone opportunity for income is the value of the stall which could be used for The title of this article is a bit harsh to make

A horse is either appreciating in value or

training, boarding or a lesson horse which

a point. Our fondness of horses often clouds

depreciating in value.

generates significant lesson income.

about running a profitable business. Too

As an asset, a horse is generating income as:

The horse business is just like any other

many horses on the farm producing too

• a lesson horse

business in that assets have to directly or

little income is one of the most common

• a leased horse

indirectly contribute to producing revenue.

causes of low profitability.

• brood mare

If your assets are non-producing, then it’s

• stallion

up to you to make changes.

our judgment for good business decisions

At some point, all professional horsemen

• inventory for sale

realize that they can’t keep every good

• rental for hire for ride or drive

horses” in your barn and if you do, how to

horse that walks into the barn. Buying and selling horses is part of the business.

Consider whether or not you have any “thief

If not, the horse becomes a financial depen-

find a new home for them.

dent on your business’s welfare roll. Becoming fond of your horses is a terrific benefit of being in the horse business. It is

Not only is it an operating expense, it is also

also a financial tie down that can ruin your

an opportunity cost. Think about it, if a horse

business. The professional horseman un-

occupies a stall and generates no income or

derstands the horses in his or her barn are

has little or no potential for future income,

assets; they aren’t pets.

it is a thief horse.

Fall 2021 | Riding Instructor

About the author: Doug Emerson The Profitable Horseman, consults, writes and speaks about the business half of the horse business. Find out more at www.ProfitableHorseman.com

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Fall 2021 | Riding Instructor

Sport psychology

Ten Tips to Teaching Students to Learn Laura King CHt, NLP, Life & Performance Coach Imagine your students coming to lessons

der for them to achieve their goals? Are

“If you think you can do a thing or think you

with enthusiasm, ready to learn a new skill

there baby steps that need to be taken

can’t do a thing, you’re right.”

or improve upon previous lessons. They’re

along the way? Then, explain to your stu-

confident and eager to begin, knowing

dent why you chose the skill or exercise. If

you will build upon their knowledge. With

she sees the pathway toward that win, she

Research shows that a person can develop

your guidance, you can empower them to

will be more motivated to stick to the plan

new skills even if the person lacks so-called

learn because learning is a skill that can be

to get there.

innate talent, or if she is getting up there

improved.

~ Henry Ford

in age.

In this article, I’ll provide 10 tips to help

2. Stop Believing In the Talent Myth; Start Believing in Your Student

you help them learn more easily, effectively

For centuries, people have believed that

ogy at Stanford University, says that when

and happily, while injecting positivity into

you’ve either got talent or you don’t and

it comes to learning new things, people

your teaching and into your life.

you can’t learn something if you aren’t

have either a fixed or a growth mindset.

naturally gifted. Now scientists have ad-

People with a fixed mindset think success

opted a different view: studies show that

in learning a new skill depends on being

Start by deciding what would be in your

talent is determined far less by our genes

gifted while people with a growth mindset

student’s best interest to learn. If a stu-

and far more by our actions. Believe that

think that success in learning new things

dent wants to win in an equitation class,

your student can do it, no matter her skill-

depends on their own efforts. They found

what skills do they need to work on in or-

set or her age.

that the latter are more likely to persevere

1. Choose the Right Skill to Teach

Fall 2021 | Riding Instructor

Carol Dweck, Ph.D., a professor of psychol-

when the going gets tough. If you come

learning a new skill, you’re changing your

Rapid feedback provides information your

into a lesson believing that your student

brain and the brain needs time to make

student can apply to actions in order to

can do it, it’s a lot more likely that she can.

those changes.

make appropriate adjustments. Remember

3. Recognize Four Stages of Learning to Help Plan Lessons So Students Can Learn Seamlessly

4. Deconstruct the Skill

Remember when you first learned how to

my mantra in my book, “Perfect Enough,” if you always do what you’ve always done,

Deconstructing a skill will help to avoid

you’ll always get what you’ve always got.

feeling overwhelmed and will make lesson

A student can’t change the outcome if you

time more efficient. If your student wants

don’t explain what they have done wrong

drive? You didn’t have a clue what to do,

to work on flying changes, break down the

instead of you exclaiming to them that

but eventually you learned the skills. As

skill into bite-size chunks and explain the

they never get it right. If you don’t change

you gained competence, you finally were

steps to your student. Add in why each step

a variable in the equation, you’ll continu-

able to turn the steering wheel or park

is important. If the rider can’t make the

ally get the same result.

without consciously considering every

horse straight, the changes aren’t going to

move. You went through the four stages of

work but they need to understand why.

8. Don’t Be So Critical They Are Afraid to Make Mistakes

A client once told me that a half-pass can-

One of the biggest obstacles to learning

• Stage 1: Unconscious Incompetence – At

ter zigzag was first broken down into step-

a new skill is emotions. No one wants to

this stage, it’s difficult for your student

by-step instructions at the walk. Once the

make mistakes. Try to avoid having them

to know what is incorrect. You don’t

skills were learned at the slower gait, it was

feel self-conscious about their mistakes

know what you don’t know. By breaking

easier to transfer into doing it correctly in

and remember (and remind them) that ev-

the skill down into bite-sized pieces, you

the canter. Consider how to explain each

eryone has to start somewhere. Learning

are introducing the concept necessary

step in the process.

the new skill is difficult and they’re likely

learning in order to achieve mastery.

for making that lead change or regulating stride length. • Stage 2: Conscious Incompetence – The

5. Create a Lesson Goal for Students for Each Practice Session

to get frustrated but if they keep going, they’ll come up on the other side.

stage where the real learning begins is

Break up the skill into milestones, then

9. The Theater of the Mind

also the most difficult stage, because

into smaller short-term goals and finally,

The imagination is a powerful tool, in fact,

you’re aware of what you are doing

fine-tune them into micro-goals. Ideally,

it’s more powerful than knowledge. Have

wrong. It’s hard to undo muscle memory

you should have a goal for each lesson.

them imagine riding the exercise in their

as well as brain memory. Have patience

Seeing tiny wins will help keep your stu-

head; this is also known as the theater of

with your student and encourage her to

dent motivated.

the mind. In my book “The Power to Win,”

have patience with herself. • Stage 3: Conscious Competence – At this

6. Deliberate Practice

I explain more about the phenomenon. Have them imagine making a movie of the

stage, you know what you’re doing, and

Deliberate practice means focusing on spe-

skill and they are the star. They are going

you’re doing it well, but you still have to

cific elements of the skill that you want to

through all the steps to complete the skill

pay attention and do things mindfully in

learn or improve, and working on those el-

correctly. Use all of their senses to imagine:

order to avoid making mistakes.

ements–by doing drills and exercises–until

how does the horse smell, what noises does

Competence –

you get better at them. Your student may

he make and what do the footfalls sound

Now, you’re so good at the skill, that

not understand how to practice when you

like, how do the reins feel in the hand, what

you can do it without thinking. This is

are not around; explain what to practice

are they wearing, what does each hand and

mastery.

and how to practice it.

each leg do in the sequence? It’s 3-D, it’s

• Stage

4: Unconscious

scratch and sniff and they can even taste it.

Obviously, you want to move your students

7. Provide Feedback.

from unconscious incompetence to un-

There is no such thing as failure, only

conscious competence as soon as possible,

feedback. When the Beatles were still an

but sometimes the change takes a while.

unknown band, they went to Hamburg,

Scientists have found that the brain is a

Germany, to practice in local clubs, thus

10. Make It Fun: Teach, Help and Watch Them Grow

lot more malleable than what was previ-

giving them feedback. They used that in-

• Have someone video you doing the ex-

ously thought. The term used to describe

formation to improve and excel.

that malleability is plasticity. When you’re

Remind them to breathe during the imagination process.

ercise properly with audio commentary so your student can imprint it her brain.

Fall 2021 | Riding Instructor

Sport psychology

Bonus: Program Positivity

horse’s neck, they’ll look down while tell-

This calls upon the theory of modeling,

Your job as a riding instructor is not only

look down.” If you tell them to quit pulling

which says that we can achieve excel-

to teach them new skills but also, to make

on the inside rein, all they’ll think about

lence where it already exists by copying

them confident and knowledgeable by em-

is tugging on the inside rein. Instead, tell

the traits and behaviors displayed when

powering them to learn and allow them to

them to look up. Be positive about looking

excellence is present.

do their personal best.

forward and ahead to where they are going.

• Suggest YouTube and internet videos of pros doing the exercises correctly.

ing themselves, “Don’t look down. Don’t

Explain what tugging on the inside rein

• Try videotaping or photographing them so they can see what they are doing in

It all starts with accentuating the positive.

does to a horse’s mechanics and provide

actuality.

If I told you, “Don’t think about the white

alternative, actionable solutions. Breaking

horse,” what would you think about? The

down a skill into step-by-step instructions

white horse, of course.

gives context and focus and provides a

• Later in the process, video them again so they can see their positive progress.

roadmap of solutions. These 10 steps can help you infuse your

It’s the same with your students. Telling

students with enthusiasm, excitement and

them what not to do is to put that ac-

Riding lessons don’t have to be about criticiz-

a readiness to learn. Your job as a riding in-

tion front and center in their minds. It’s

ing what a student does wrong; they can eas-

structor is not only to teach them new skills

as if they can’t do anything but focus on

ily be about what they can do to make it right.

but also to make them confident and knowl-

the negative action. Your words are pro-

edgeable by empowering them to learn and

gramming their subconscious minds to

Need help addressing your challenges or

allow them to do their personal best.

do the very thing you don’t want them to

achieving your goals? Sessions available

do. If you tell them to stop looking down

in-person, via Zoom, or by phone.

at the ground or to quit focusing on the

Fall 2021 | Riding Instructor

The Power To Win Is Inside You Laura King’s New Online Course Is Helping Riders Achieve Their Personal Best Laura King CHt, NLP, Life & Performance Coach At the intersection of elite equestrians,

you want using self-hypnosis and NLP. We

Laura King, a certified hypnotist, Neuro

are all ‘perfect enough,’ but until you accept

Linguistic

practi-

where you are in the moment, you are not

tioner, life and sports performance coach,

truly ready to make the changes you desire.”

and founder and president of Summit

The premise of “perfect enough,” is behind

Dynamics, LLC, a consulting service is ded-

her popular book Perfect Enough and is now

icated to helping others attain their goals.

in development as an online course.

Programming

(NLP)

Laura King’s new online course, The Power to Win, is giving riders at every level an edge

The Power To Win Online Course, Achieving

over their competition.

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About the author: Laura King is the Director and Founder of Summit Hypnosis and Wellness and is a Certified Hypnotist, NLP Practitioner, Life Coach, and Sports Performance Coach. Laura has written and published several books and workbooks, including ”Power To Win” for equestrians and “Perfect Enough,” a guide to help you evaluate your perceptions and experiences around vital areas of your life.

Fall 2021 | Riding Instructor

Feature

4th Annual Guide to Schools, Colleges and Universities with Equine Programs Instructors have the unique opportunity to share their knowledge of horses and instruction with their students as well as other information that can help guide them in their quest for higher education. Here are insights into several colleges and universities that have equine studies and riding programs.

Photo courtesy Cazenovia College

Cazenovia College Ø What degree or certificate programs are offered? We offer Bachelor degrees in over 35 programs including a degree in Equine Business Management. We also have many certificate programs, including a Certificate in Equine Reproduction.

Ø What riding disciplines are available? Hunter Seat, Western Horsemanship, Reining, Dressage and Pleasure Driving.

Fall 2021 | Riding Instructor

Ø Are there continuing education or non-degree options offered? Yes, in addition to being an approved ARIA test center and offering the ARICP testing 1-2x/year, we have an Adult & Continuing Education division where students can take courses part-time on campus, online and at several community college satellite locations. The courses include several non-degree certificate programs.

Ø What breeds of horses are used?

Ø What makes this school special?

Thoroughbreds, Warmbloods and Quarter Horses, as well as numerous other breeds

Our small size and distinct blend of liberal arts and professional studies allows for individualized academic programs that are enhanced by internships and applied learning activities. Our welcoming community makes students feel at home on our small, safe campus and in the nearby lakeside Village of Cazenovia.

Ø Are the horses owned by the school, students or others? Horses used in the program are all owned by the College. Some boarding is available for students.

Ø What tips do you have for potential students? Get as much experience as possible riding all different types of horses, as this will help students both in college riding classes as well as with Equestrian Team competition.

Ø What equestrian-related extracurricular activities (clubs, teams, etc.) are available? We have an Equine Ambassadors Club (a service organization) and the Equestrian Team (IHSA Hunter Seat/Western & IDA Dressage), some clinics/outside shows.

Ø Contact information Visit our website at www.cazenovia.edu Call us Toll Free: 1-800-654-3210 or 315-655-7208, or send us an email at admissions@cazenovia.edu

Ø Are scholarships available? Yes, first-year students receive merit scholarships from $22,000 - $31,000 regardless of family income or residency. Other financial aid is also available.

WORLD-CLASS EQUINE AT CAZENOVIA COLLEGE

• Nationally ranked team competing in Hunter Seat,Western Horsemanship, Reining and Dressage • Nationally recognized equine business management program • Ranked one of America’s Best Colleges and a top Best Value in the north by U.S. News

OUR 240-ACRE EQUINE EDUCATION CENTER

Cazenovia College, Cazenovia, N.Y. 13035 www.cazenovia.edu 1.800.654.3210

Fall 2021 | Riding Instructor

Feature

William Woods University Ø What degree or certificate programs are offered? Bachelor of Science Majors: Equestrian Science, Equine Administration and Equine General Studies Minors: Equestrian Science, Equine Administration Master of Education in Equestrian Education

Ø What riding disciplines are available? Hunter/Jumper Dressage Western Saddle Seat

Ø Are there continuing education or non-degree options offered? Not at this time

Fall 2021 | Riding Instructor

Ø Are there pre-qualifying criteria for students wishing to enter your program? All students must meet standard William Woods admissions requirements for admission.

Ø Are the horses owned by the school, students or others? The horses are owned by William Woods and donated from all over the United States and beyond.

Ø What equestrian-related extracurricular activities (clubs, teams, etc.) are available? Western Club Dressage Club Hunter/Jumper Club Saddle Seat Club Paddock Club (all disciplines)

Intercollegiate Horse Judging Team Pre-Veterinary Club

90 YEARS OF EQUESTRIAN LEADERSHIP

Ø Are scholarships available? William Woods offers a broad range of scholarship opportunities including those for academic merit, campus involvement, diversity and inclusion, and more. None are specific to the equestrian program, but all students are offered some form of scholarship through the Office of Admissions.

Ø What makes this school special? William Woods was the first institution in the country to offer a four year bachelor’s degree in equestrian science. We are a microcosm of the horse industry and have been producing professionals in the industry for many decades!

Ø What tips do you have for potential students? Keep an open mind about your best fit for a successful career with horses. We work hard to expose students to many facets of the industry and make them as marketable in different parts of the horse world as possible. Keep an open mind about disciplines or breeds new to you and be ready to make a positive impact on our industry!

On-campus equestrian center

Center for Equine Medicine

Careerfocused curriculum

williamwoods.edu/EQS

573-592-4221 | admissions@williamwoods.edu

Fall 2021 | Riding Instructor

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Fall 2021 | Riding Instructor

Feature

Sweet Briar College Ø What degree or certificate programs are offered? Two equine certificates: Equine Studies Certificate – Management Concentration; Equine Studies Certificate - Teaching and Schooling Concentration

Ø What riding disciplines are available? Hunter-Jumper

Ø Are there continuing education or non-degree options offered? No

Ø Are there pre-qualifying criteria for students wishing to enter your program? No

Ø Are the horses owned by the school, students or others? Both. We have some College-owned horses, but we also have boarding options for students who wish to bring their own horses.

Ø What equestrian-related extracurricular activities (clubs, teams, etc.) are available? Sweet Briar offers an NCEA and a IHSA team, both supported at the varsity level, and opportunities for students to show at local and USEF-rated horse shows. For students looking to take advantage of our 2,840 acres, our field riding program offers the ability to participate in hunter trials and hunter paces. In addition, Sweet Briar’s Riding Council is a student-led organization that provides leadership opportunities for riders.

Ø Are scholarships available? Because Sweet Briar is a Division III college, we do not offer athletic scholarships. However we do offer merit scholarships, some of which cover 75% of tuition. The vast majority of Sweet Briar students receive some kind of financial aid.

Ø What makes this school special? We’ve got the complete package at Sweet Briar — and it makes ours the best equestrian program of any liberal arts college in the

Fall 2021 | Riding Instructor

country. For more than 100 years, riding has mattered deeply at Sweet Briar. We believe equestrians become exemplary leaders, in any field. They have remarkable tenacity and discipline, they understand what great teamwork demands, and they’re passionate about empowering and mentoring others. That’s why we’ve invested in our program to make it one of the best in the nation. We have great horses, passionate instructors and coaches and a riding center that sets the standard for collegiate programs, all in one extraordinary landscape. We have: • Horses that are ready to teach and challenge you, whatever your level. • A riding center routinely ranked among the nation’s top facilities, newly renovated and staffed full-time. • Trainers and coaches that value your goals—whether you want to win national competitions (which we do for NCEA and IHSA on a regular basis) or become a more confident weekend rider. • Classes in horse training and our interdisciplinary equine study certificates—great preparation for careers in horse farm management, veterinary science, teaching, and schooling.

• A landscape made for equestrians. Our 2,840 acres take you through wooded countryside, foothills, dells and open fields.

Ø What tips do you have for potential students? Visit campus to get a real feel for the community at Sweet Briar and speak with students. Touring the riding center is a great way to meet the instructors and coaches and learn about what the program gets to offer.

Contact information Merrilee “Mimi” Wroten ’93 Director of the Riding Program Head NCEA Coach Riding Instructor P | 434-381-6348 E | mwroten@sbc.edu

2021 NCEA Single Discipline

N AT IO N AL C HAM PIO N S

Excellent riders make

exemplary leaders. Earn an Equine Studies Certificate with a strong liberal arts and sciences foundation. •

• • •

Extensive on-campus facilities include a 130-acre riding center, a 120’ x 300’ indoor arena, boarding opportunities and newly renovated stables Hunter/Jumper riding program NCEA, IHSA and ODAC competitive teams and lessons for all levels 100 years of equine excellence

Learn more and see the newly renovated stables at sbc.edu/riding.

Fall 2021 | Riding Instructor

Emory & Henry College Ø What degree or certificate programs are offered? Emory & Henry College offers more than 90 academic majors, minors and tracks including Equine Studies B.S., B.A., and minor; Equine Assisted Therapy B.A., Animal Science minor; Business Administration B.S. and more.

Ø What riding disciplines are available? Hunters, Jumpers, Equitation, and Dressage Equine Studies degrees begin with an emphasis on the mechanism of the horse, along with a commitment to traditional horsemanship and the workings of rider position. Students participate in hands-on learning through research and work opportunities, including equine health-related research studies to assisting at A-rated Horse Shows. The curriculum offers a broad range of courses in teaching, schooling, horse show management, judging, stable management, anatomy, first aid, and equine nutrition that prepare students for successful careers in a variety of different positions within the equine industry. Emory & Henry is one of the few colleges to offer undergraduate research putting students at the top of the job market. Students may choose to combine their Equine Studies degree with Business or another major or minor to further their handcrafted education.

Ø Are there continuing education or non-degree options offered? Riding is open to all students, regardless of their major or level of riding.

Ø Are there pre-qualifying criteria for students wishing to enter your program? Students wishing to ride should complete an application for admission to the College as well as a riding questionnaire available to assess their riding experience and review the technical standards required for the program. These documents are available at www.ehc.edu/equine under the Scholarships and Opportunities area.

Ø Are the horses owned by the school, students or others? The college provides 50 quality school horses and students are welcome to bring their own horses when boarding space is available.

Ø What equestrian-related extracurricular activities (clubs, teams, etc.) are available? The nationally-acclaimed Intermont Equestrian at Emory & Henry College boasts 21 national championships in competitive riding since 2001. Emory & Henry’s IHSA, IDA and ANRC teams offer op-

Fall 2021 | Riding Instructor

Feature portunities for students to gain competitive experience in hunters, jumpers, equitation and dressage.

Ø Are scholarships available? Emory & Henry College is accepting equestrian scholarship auditions by video submission. Please send a video showcasing your riding skills to Odessa Thacker at osthacker@ehc.edu. High school juniors and seniors may send in video submissions for review.

pus. Equestrian Open House is currently scheduled for October 30, 2021, and the RSVP is available at www.ehc.edu/visit. Emory & Henry College’s Equine Studies and Riding Program offers three collegiate riding camps catering to riders ages 1418 through the Collegiate Bound Summer Riding Camp. Participants in the camp stay overnight in the residence hall at the scenic mountain campus and ride at the Intermont Equestrian Center allowing

them to get a taste of what it is like to be an equine student at Emory & Henry College.

Contact information Odessa Thacker Equestrian Admissions Counselor E | osthacker@ehc.edu P | 276-944-6533

Ø What makes this school special? Consistently ranked among the nation’s best private liberal arts institutions, Emory & Henry has more than 90 academic majors and tracks and an average class size of 15 students making individualized education a priority. At Emory & Henry, you are more than just a number. Students are connected to the world of work through our distinctive van Vlissingen Center for Career and Professional Development and Student Success Centers. Through integrated liberal arts learning and hands-on experiences, all students are supported to connect their classroom experiences and projects with study abroad opportunities, internships, and civic engagement. Our Equestrian coaches and professors have long lists of experience and accomplishments themselves, and many are still working professional equestrians to this day- simply put, they are not just coaches. Our coaches have also worked with more National Championship teams than any other coaching staff in the entire country. Our Equestrian and Equine Studies programs are committed to creating well-rounded and knowledgeable graduates; we firmly believe that learning multiple aspects of the Equine Industry is what makes our students the most employable and successful after college.

Ø What tips do you have for potential students? Prospective students should schedule a campus visit and meet with the equestrian admissions counselor, faculty and current students to get a feel for the cam24

Fall 2021 | Riding Instructor

Intermont Equestrian

STUDY & RIDE 21 NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS Equine Studies: B.A., B.S. or Minor NEW! Equine Assisted Therapy: B.A.

Competitive Riding Teams: ANRC, IDA, IHSA

Animal Science Minor • Pre-Professional: Pre-Vet More than 90 Majors, Minors & Tracks

Hunters • Jumpers • Dressage Boarding Available

Join us on campus for Equine Open House on October 30! SCHEDULE A CAMPUS VISIT

www.ehc.edu/saddleup

RIDING SCHOLARSHIPS

1.800.848.5493 • admission@ehc.edu

AVERETT UNIVERSITY Ø What degree or certificate programs are offered? Bachelor of Science degree in Equestrian Studies. Within the major, there are several concentrations that students may choose from. All students in the major take approximately 30 credit hours in core equestrian courses. These include riding, management, behavior, teaching and science courses, such as lameness and disease. Students then choose a concentration for an additional 30 credit hours. The concentrations include teaching/training in either dressage or eventing; equine business management; equine sports communication; equine assisted psychotherapy and equine science/pre-vet. Many of our students graduate with multiple concentrations and/or double majors in other fields of study.

Ø What riding disciplines are available? Dressage, Hunt Seat, Eventing

Ø Are there continuing education or non-degree options offered? no

Ø Are there pre-qualifying criteria for students wishing to enter your program? No, we offer such a large array of concentrations, that we have students come from a wide variety of riding back grounds.

Ø Are the horses owned by the school, students or others? All the horses are owned by the University or on lease to us. We have a vast array of horses available for our students to learn on. They range from upper level dressage school masters, eventing ponies and experienced hunter/equitation horses, to quiet older quarter horses for the students beginning their riding career. Although the majority of our horses are Warmbloods and Thoroughbreds, we house many different breeds including Arabians, Iberians, Paints/Quarter, and Irish Sport horses.

Ø What equestrian-related extracurricular activities (clubs, teams, etc.) are available? We host two intercollegiate teams, the Intercollegiate Dressage Association (IDA) team and the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) team. Students have the ability to compete in open horse shows in dressage, hunt seat and eventing/combined training on personal or school owned horses. Students are able to start competing on the intercollegiate teams as freshmen. The equestrian department hosts a study abroad trip on alternating years. Students have traveled to Germany and attended the German National School and obtained rider medals, as well as, explored the equine industry and ridden in Ireland and Spain. Averett offers many opportunities to participate in service

Fall 2021 | Riding Instructor

Feature learning courses and projects. One such course in the equestrian department involves working with a local Thoroughbred rehoming center helping to retrain horses coming off the race track, for other vocations. All students participate in at least one internship experience. Students have interned with Olympic veterinarians, international level dressage and eventing competitors, equine therapy centers, as well as a host of other fields in the industry.

Ø Are scholarships available? Yes! Averett has many academic and need based scholarships. In addition, there are several equestrian specific scholarships. Students may apply for either performance based or academic based equestrian scholarships. Those applications, are submitted online and accepted two times during the year.

Ø What makes this school special? There are so many things that make Averett special for our students. The most common reason given by our students is Averett feels like family. Students make connections with faculty and staff on many levels. So much so, the University President hosts every freshman class to the President’s house for dinner. There are opportunities for all students, the strong competitive

riders, the aspiring veterinarians, the student with a passion for helping people through horses. We are not a one size fits all program and pride ourselves on meeting students where they are and growing them into exceptional equine professionals

Ø What tips do you have for potential students? First, look at lots of schools to be sure you find the one that feels right for YOU! When you come to college, keep an open mind and a willingness to learn and be taught.

Contact information Ginger Henderson k vhenderson@averett.edu K https://www.averett.edu/academics/majors-and-programs/ undergraduate/equestrian-studies/ E facebook Averett equestrian Q Instagram averettu_es

Equestrian Studies Offering concentrations in: Dressage Instruction Eventing Instruction Equine Management Equine Science Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy

averett.edu/equestrian • 1-800-AVERETT

Fall 2021 | Riding Instructor

• Bachelor’s and associate degrees • Nationally-known instructors • Riding instruction five days a week • Outstanding facilities – 2 farms, 5 indoor arenas, 350+ horses LEARN MORE AT WWW.FINDLAY.EDU

American Riding Instructor Certification Program

QUICK TEST CENTER APPLICATION P L E A S E P R I N T C L E A R LY A N D F I L L I N A L L B L A N K S

Miss Ms. Mrs. Mr. First name:

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(evenings):

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Select your Level Circle one of the following. You do not need to start at Level I if you wish to start at a higher level and have the necessary age & teaching experience for that level. Level I Instructor in Training (18 years old minimum, no teaching experience required).

Last name: Zip: Fax: Age:

Number of years teaching riding:

Apply early! Space is limited! Test for first time in one or two specialties, at Level 1 or 2: $595. Add $350. per specialty beyond the first two. Add $200. per specialty to test at Level 3.

Level II

Re-testing (after first time): $350. Private testing: Add $250. Change of Test Center date: $250. Payments are non-refundable.

Choose your own test date!

Instructor of Beginner through Intermediate (21 years old minimum, 3 years of teaching experience required).

For private or group testing, contact aria@riding-instructor.com

Level III Instructor of Beginner through Advanced (25 years old minimum, 6 years of teaching experience required).

Earning your ARIA Certification is an important step in your career Register online at www.riding-instructor.com

Select your Specialty Check one or two of the following. There is an additional fee of $350 per specialty to test in more than two. Distance Riding: Endurance & Competitive Dressage

Recreational Riding Reining Riding to Hounds Saddle Seat

Driving

Please note

Advance Registration Required

1. Please register at least 30 days in advance in order to have Call (603) 605-5275, e-mail aria@riding-instructor.com or visit sufficient time to receive your acceptance package and prepare. www.riding-instructor.com to register. 2. Testing at your location may be arranged for six or more Note: Membership in the ARICP requires that you honor and instructors. uphold the integrity of your certification.

Show Jumping

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Hunt Seat Hunt Seat on the flat (no jumping) Mounted Patrol Training Officer

Stable Management Western Dressage

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aria@riding-instructor.com for latest list of test centers.

ARICP—PO Box: 366 Alton, NH 03809 Tel 603-605-5275 • e-mail aria@riding-instructor.com • Web www.riding-instructor.com Fall 2021 | Riding Instructor

Your Circus, Your Monkeys

keys”. The saying has gained traction in American

By Lydia Fairchok

drama, distress, and disorder. “Not my problem,”

dialogue as a casual rejection of other peoples’ the speaker says. “I didn’t sign up for that. I didn’t

“This is my circus, these are my monkeys.”

gether in a way that is talked about little but felt

make that mess.”

much. We didn’t want to be apart again. This was the slogan on the nightshift super-

Many times, it’s a healthy move to keep

visor’s t-shirt as she broached the unwelcome

Rachell told us who would be assigned to which

our distance from someone else’s mayhem.

news that our 911 dispatch center was returning

building and how the responsibilities of eight

Boundaries protect us from being overextended,

to COVID protocols. No one was excited about

police departments and nine fire/EMS agen-

manipulated, or too drained to deal with the

it. The change would involve splitting our team

cies would be divided. Rachell herself would be

challenges of our own lives. But what about when

between different buildings miles apart, and we

among those who went to the less-comfortable

it is our circus, and it is our monkeys? Teaching

knew from experience how much harder commu-

backup site. Some concerns were aired and an-

is a form of leading, no matter the number of

nication and workflow would be because of it.

swered as we took in the information, then 911

students, staff, or horses you have. While it is both

lines and radio traffic inevitably turned us back

easy and tempting to shift the blame or make

Dispatching is a fast-paced, close-knit environ-

to our screens. We weren’t happy, but we knew it

excuses, your position of leadership requires you

ment where information, questions, jokes, and

would work because dispatchers are the kind of

to take ownership of the team, the problem, and

encouragement are regularly called out across

people who make it work, and because Rachell is

the outcome even when things look like a three-

the room. Twelve-hour shifts cover nights, days,

the kind of supervisor who leads from the front

ring disaster.

weekends, and holidays, which means that co-

when it’s her circus and her monkeys on the line.

workers often see more of each other than of

Picture these scenarios:

their own families. Meals, laughter, and crises

Nie mój cyrk, nie moje małpy is a Polish proverb

• A scheduling error has left you with a pile-up

are shared in equal measure. The intense nature

that first appeared in the late 1900s. Translated

of parents in the breezeway, all of whom want

of public safety work draws the dispatchers to-

literally, it reads, “Not my circus, not my mon-

to know why their child cannot be finished

Fall 2021 | Riding Instructor

with their lesson on time. Do you save face by

use your knowledge, skills, and abilities for the

tured, the challenges seem insurmountable, and

explaining that your junior instructor mistyped

betterment of others.

things don’t work out the way they were planned.

fault, offer your apologies, and work out the best

The main stage of your circus is your barn, and

Instructorship is leadership, and leadership is

solution?

your two- and four-legged monkeys have no

ownership of the whole situation for better or for

shortage of wrenches to throw. Some days, it al-

worse. Sometimes there is no easy way to accom-

• A student languishes in their progress and

most seems like too much to handle. But when

plish what needs to be done, and sometimes the

appears to put forth very little effort. Do you go on

the show must go on, your crew is looking to you

outcome is far from what you wanted. Keep lead-

autopilot for their classes because they are clearly

to lead the way. They need to know that you aren’t

ing. The effort is always worth it when it is your

not willing to take your instruction seriously, or

going to abandon them when the team gets frac-

circus and your monkeys on the line.

the class list for the day, or do you accept the

do you strive to find a new way to engage them?

Com p Onl lete Se y $2 t 95

• A horse misbehaves, frustrating a rider and embarrassing you both at a show. The parents want to know why their child didn’t place. Do you call the horse lazy, chalk it up to stubbornness, and send the pair back out to try again with the addition of some quick-fix gear? Or do you take the opportunity to teach your rider about meeting their horse in its present state, even if it means scratching classes?

Revolutionary Coach to Rider Communication

• You find yourself having a bad day because of stressors in your life outside of work. Cancelling classes isn’t an option, but you certainly aren’t “feeling it”. Do you rationalize giving your students less than your all, or do you remember that the focus of leadership is on the student, not the teacher, and put aside your personal troubles while you instruct? Being a leader means that when it’s time to go, there is no room for selfishness. You own the mistakes of your team, even in front of a client or fellow professional. You address shortcomings privately and praise publicly. You examine yourself to find the barriers to your students’ progress or your horses’ performance. You restore yourself during your down time so you can bring your best back to the table—which in turn brings out the best in your team. Even better, you keep bringing your best even when your team isn’t giving it back. You keep your cool when the hose is forgotten and the troughs overflow, that one student is late again, the pony won’t load, and your family life is nagging at the back of your mind while you teach. You share credit and shoulder the blame, treat your staff

 Communicate at whisper levels.  Cyber headset fits comfortably under helmet..  Superior comfort for instructor.

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as you would want to be treated, and continually

Fall 2021 | Riding Instructor

Cameo’s cauldron … in which Cameo Miller stirs her thoughts and ideas to see what rises to the top.

Anyone who has spent any amount of time

physiological changes in our bodies, which

around animals will know what I am talking

cause more problems, which causes more

about. And that certainly includes all of

distress.

you. Animal are very adept at dealing with life’s difficulties. Unless there is acute pain

Our animal friends seem to innately be able

or fear, our animal friends deal by sitting or

to get over issues and get on with life. To go

standing quietly with a resolute expression of

back to being joyful and happy to be alive.

endurance on their faces. When the distress

We humans don’t seem to be able to do that

is over, they move on with life as if it had not

nearly as well. We are different. But we can

happened at all. They may avoid whatever

see the results of letting go of the worry and

situation caused the distress if they are able

distress by looking at them. Then we can

to, but they don’t avoid life in general. They go

find our own ways of trying not to dwell on

back to eating, hanging out with their friends,

the past or worry so much about the future.

loving us, and enjoying life as they know it.

Find our own ways of living joyfully in the

They don’t seem to worry about the future

moments when we aren’t dealing with a

either (unless it is near feeding time). For

crisis. Of truly appreciating when things are

example: you probably all know of a dog who

going well. Of letting those feelings of peace

is afraid of thunder. But once the storm is over

and happiness settle firmly into us.

they are totally back to normal. They don’t go around watching the sky or being frightened

You may read this and say that I am

because it’s started to rain. Obviously, animals

making huge assumptions here. That I am

can learn to fear and avoid certain situations.

anthropomorphizing animals like crazy. Both

LEARNING FROM OUR ANIMAL FRIENDS

If they have had the misfortune to be with

are true. But I have also spent a long lifetime

someone who has used a whip abusively,

really paying attention to animals and trying

they will get wild eyed and try to get away

very hard to understand things from their

from anyone who picks up a whip. Until they

point of view. Maybe what I have learned from

learn that you use a whip differently. We all

them is not the same things you have. So I

know of cases where the animal has suffered

invite you to look to your own animals again

severe, long term abuse. But even then, they

with the idea in mind that you might learn

will return to “normal” animal behavior given

something new from them that you can use

time, care, and no repeat of the abuse.

at this time in your life. What can they teach

By Cameo Miller

There are several religions which advocate

about just enjoying when things are going

“living in the moment”. It seems to me that

well, about letting the positive moments have

Illustration by Bethany Caskey

you about letting go of the fear and worry,

animals have a lock on this. They deal with

more weight than what is wearing you down?

The last two years or so have been especially

whatever is happening at the moment, then get

I invite you to really feel and see your dog

crazy on an on-going basis. We barely have

on with their lives once the situation is over.

running up to you with a wagging tail and a happy smile. To hear the nicker of recognition

time to recover from one adversity before the next one confronts us. And sometimes they

What I am suggesting is that some of the

as your horse sees you approach. To enjoy

pile onto each other without even giving us

chronic distress we are all feeling right now is

a day with mild temperatures and a gentle

a break before the next one hits. Even though

because we keep rehashing all the difficulties

breeze. Deal with whatever problems arise,

some areas of our lives may be somewhat

we have encountered over the last 1 ½ years

but be even more aware of the good people,

returning to normal, others are definitely not.

or so. We keep worrying about what will

animals, and life around you. I invite you to

We are all getting very worn out. We each are

happen next. We hear about all the chaos

truly live in the moments when things are

doing our very best to try to cope with all of

and disaster that is happening everywhere

going well as our animals seem to do.

this. I’ve written several articles recently in

and let the negative feelings into us. Then we

the hopes of giving you some extra thoughts

carry all of this turmoil around with us. Even

and options about how to cope, so I won’t

if we aren’t consciously thinking about these

reiterate those ideas here. But there is one

problems at the moment, the weight of this

avenue I haven’t put forth.

distress is still subconsciously there. It causes

Fall 2021 | Riding Instructor

About the author: Cameo Miller is a Masters-level clinical psychologist and a Level IV ARIA Certified Instructor based in Michigan. She is a member of the ARIA Evaluation Panel and an ARIA National Test Center Administrator.

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One of the Premier Equine Education Centers in the Northeast Cazenovia College is a small, co-educational college, located in Upstate, NY, offering a liberal arts and professional studies education with over 35 academic programs. Our 240-acre Equine Education Center is home to the nationally ranked Intercollegiate Equestrian Team and the IACBE accredited Equine Business Management program. Our Equestrian Team is one of the best in the region, with a long history of success at intercollegiate and rated competition in Hunter Seat, Western Horsemanship, Reining and Dressage. The team competes in IHSA and IDA sanctioned events. Our world-class equine facility houses over 70 horses, a large, heated indoor arena, multiple grass and sand outdoor riding areas, and turnout paddocks. ARIA welcomes back Cazenovia as a returning Corporate Sponsor!

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Fall 2021 | Riding Instructor