Riding Clubs

[olderthanshelooks]

It's been suggested that it would beneficial and enjoyable if I joined a riding Club.
I have only ever hunted so find the idea of joining a club a bit daunting and worry about what people would think of my riding.

Can anyone please tell me what a riding club does and how I would go about joining one?

 

[OFG]

RCs are a bit like Pony Club but for older people

Joined my local RC in Feb this year after years and years of 'happy hacking' local showing and stuff.

Best thing I have done in ages.

My local RC organises lots of lessons (flat, SJ, XC, clinics etc). You put your name down for what you want to do. Flat lessons typically 4 riders per lesson which equates to £10 per lesson - bargain!

They do camps (which I have been told are great) and members days (not sure what these are yet as haven't been able to attend one)

Really good way to meet like minded people, get in tune with your horse and get encouragement from others to try stuff and generally have fun with your horse.

I have taken the plunge and started jumping again after an 11 year break. Absolutely terrified me but did a 'jumping with confidence' SJ lesson with emphasis on balance, rhythm and getting rider / horse in tune with each other. Instructor was excellent and had us popping a tiny course at the end of the 1.5hrs.

Week later I was doing XC (albeit small stuff no bigger than 2ft3 but to me it was huge ).

Definitely go for it. As my pony is new to me it is helping me get to know him in a controlled environment with knowledgeable people on hand to give pointers. You can do as little or as much as you like

 

[rossiroo]

I would go along to watch one of their shows/competitions, you can have a look at whats expected and see what the atmousphere is like, there may be more than one club in your area to choose from and they do vary a lot.

 

[olderthanshelooks]

Thank you.

I have never done pony club either as didn't start properly riding until I was 19. There a few in the East Devon area so will have to make some enquiries to which one would suit me best.

 

[OFG]

Definately ask about and do some research on the ones in your area.

I posted in CR in HHO about the one I am now with and got some great members feedback which helped my decision