Horsemanship Program

 General Information:

   All clinics and testing will be held in a safe enclosed area on well- schooled horses. Clinics will be offered to help prepare the student for testing. It is encouraged that all participants receive regular lessons with a qualified instructor. Clinics may be conducted by LEA Board Members or qualified instructors delegated by the LEA.
   Testing  will be offered once or twice a year depending on interest. The tests will be made up of 5 different sections:

1.      Riding on the Lunge

2.      Riding in the Arena

3.      Care & Management

4.      Written Test

5.      Oral Test

    Emphasis will be on Riding on the flat and on the lunge. It will be conducted by Julie Mitchell, USDF Certified Instructor. A later date will be set for a mock testing so each participant will be familiar with requirements for the program.  A Judge outside of the LEA organization will assess the Arena Riding Test.

   Although it is not a requirement in order to test, it is hoped that all participants in the testing will attend the clinics and acquire the Horsemanship Manual in order to assure their success.  The cost of the manual includes participation in the test.

   Bronze medals and certificates will be awarded to successful candidates at the LEA Year-End Banquet.

   Next year, the Silver and Gold levels will be developed for the program. They will be more intense and detailed. It is hoped that everyone will want to continue their education through the levels. After the Silver and Gold Levels are obtained, participants may opt to concentrate on certain disciplines such as jumping or dressage and earn specialized “degrees” in these disciplines.

   The Silver Level will have the addition of Riding in the Open and Jumping. The Gold Level will have the addition of Riding in the Open, Jumping, and Lunging. Some subjects previously touched on in the Bronze Level will also be discussed in more detail.

   It is the goal of this organization to offer a fun and educational program that all members can participate in and benefit from!