Riding Clubs yes/no?

sharky

sharky

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As a pretty new rider (well, i'm new not so sure about pretty) and being of the more mature end of the spectrum (41), i was wondering peoples view of riding clubs are.

I have lessons 2 to 3 times a week with my instructor and hack out etc every week with my OH but wondered what peoples views are before i consider joining one.

What appeals to me about clubs - riding with more people, potential social side, local events etc

What worries me - having riding club stuff interfering with my instructors work, not being of a good enough standard to enjoy , being only 1 mature man with loads of teens and younger riders.

Finally the 2 near me are Rudgwick RC and Horsham and District RC, so any opinions greatly received

Thanks

:)
 
Riding clubs are great! and ive seen many people around that age part of riding clubs, and all enjoy it, so it shouldnt be just teens and young riders . Its a great place to socialise and can improve your riding tremendously, as well as building up confidence :)
Give it a go, try it a few times. If you dont like it at least you gave it a go :)
 
I think RCs are great - they are social, friendly on the whole and have a great range of opportunities.

Does not matter what standard you are as there is always something to suit. We have a few males in our RC and they all seem to have a nice time.
 
You certainly wouldn't be one of the oldest at my riding club, or the only male for that matter! Go for it, you can go as a non-member, see if you like it and join up if you do. I think it's great fun. Most RCs split their training sessions ability wise so don't worry about that stopping you from enjoying it. In my opinion it's a great way to get your horse out and about and used to working around other horses and also a good way to meet other horsey people in your area. Go for it!
 
Riding clubs vary enormously so find out as much as you can about the local ones (sorry I don't know the ones you mention). Some are more set up for 'hobby' riders yet others are very, very competitive!

Most riding clubs will have a 'junior' section and a 'senior' section so I doubt you will be having lessons with the children. I am 31 but was one of the youngest in my last RC :eek:

Standards again vary, in one riding club I was in a lower level group with no chance of ever qualifying for teams, when I moved and joined a smaller club I ended up representing them at area and national level in dressage, equitation, sj, equitation over jumps AND eventing! :D

As regarding lessons/clinics, I have always been quite picky about who I have teaching me but have had access to some truly inspirational instructors through my RC.

IMO it's definitely worth a try!
 
do it. i`m older than you and having a great time. it`s also a great source of support if (like me) you keep your horses at home. and i absolutely love my jumping lessons with the youngsters (children/teenagers) and they dont seem the least bit bothered that I`m joining in with them, rather the opposite. one thing i`vbe found with horses and riding clubs ect is that human age seems to make no difference - its the positive outlook that matters.
 
I used to know the horsham and district one but movedd from the area, nice friendly people and quite a few men about 3 years ago. I know horsham do a lot of clinics and activities
 
depends on your local RC as said above.
They probably have a website and may have an upcoming events section. Some offer training which is subsidised for RC members but there is no obligation to go. Same with competitions - there isn't any obligation to go but you usually get entries cheaper for being a member.
By joining you get public liability cover for horse related incidents too.
 
I dont know the clubs near you but I would say to do a bit or research and join the one that suits you best. It doesnt matter how old you are you will be put with people at a similar level to you so go and enjoy it.
 
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