rev:text
| - At the age of 61, I decided to take some riding lessons so that I would feel confident joining my niece when she invited me to go trail riding on her horses. I have 20 years of riding experience but that was a LONG time ago, so while I still have knowledge in my mind, the body has ideas of its own!
I wanted a barn with well cared for horses, and a friendly and vibrant community of riders and families. Most of all, I wanted a kind, knowledgeable instructor with a lot of experience teaching adults. Someone who would respect my physical limitations and still challenge me.
My first lesson was humbling. Although my brain knew what to do, I was so out of shape that I could barely rise to a trot. My instructor developed a plan! Over the next couple of months, I rode on a long line, I rode a vaulting horse frontwards, backwards, and sideways! Rode bareback in the round pen to develop my seat. Learned physical activities to strengthen my core and improve my balance. Rode a dressage test, went trail riding, worked with rails and cones to learn sideways and backwards movement. Got to do a little jumping in the riding ring and on the trails!
My instructor, Carol Land, gave me very clear and precise instructions in small increments so that I could build my skills with a good foundation. She covered many aspects of safety protocols. I felt that at all times she had my safety, and the horse's in mind. But very importantly, this lady knows how to have FUN! If you think learning to be a horseman simply involves riding around and around in circles until you look pretty, you are going to be very surprised!
I highly recommend Shea Rose Farm for adult riders, whether you are a true beginner or a "re-rider." I have also spent some time watching young riders at this farm, especially those in the Vaulting program. My little niece plans on giving it a try when she's a bit older. The barn owner takes students riding all over the world, at the beach, in the mountains, and to competitions. Can't think of anywhere else I'd rather ride!
|