ALL ABOUT RIDING
- and the Mirtna Park Philosophy
Horse riding is one of the truly great sports as not only does it involve another living creature, it also requires us to use both our minds and bodies to quite a remarkable degree.
At Mirtna Park Equestrian Centre our aim is to train effective, safe and considerate riders. This way, both horse and rider can enjoy what they are doing - whether they are riding competitively or for pleasure.
However, because horses are animals and not machines, and because riding is a skill which requires practice, there is always the possibility of a fall. Usually these are only tumbles which dent pride and confidence temporarily, but there is always a risk of worse damage and anyone who takes this sport on must be aware of and prepared for this possibility.
Lesson Plans (Beginner, Intermediate, Group, Two, Three & Five Day Schools)
Beginners
Beginners are only taught on a one-to-one basis on trained horses for safety, confidence and speed of learning. Usually even a beginner will learn basic principles of walk, trot and steering quite comfortably in their first lesson - consolidating these basics takes longer!
Intermediate
From initial lessons, the work becomes a mixture of games, trot poles, small jumps and precise figure work, all of which teach control and balance. Refining the aids for communication builds a partnership between horse and rider, as well as creating the basis for real enjoyment.
We have an indoor arena, an outdoor arena, showjumping and cross country arenas to provide plenty of variety for riders, however we do not provide trail rides.
Group Lessons
Once riders are able to adequately control their horse at walk, rising trot and sitting trot, they may be eligible to join a group lesson which fine tunes their control skills more than riding alone and also gives the chance to observe other riders. From their strengths and weaknesses, you will learn a lot about improving yourself.
Two, Three and Five Day Schools
Five or six times a year, Mirtna Park runs intensive schools to improve not only riding, but horse-handling and basic knowledge for students. On two and three day schools, students ride twice every day and are responsible for feeding, grooming, saddling and of course cleaning up after their designated horse. There is more emphasis on broadening knowledge, horse-handling and understanding as well as riding skills in the five day schools
These schools are great fun for children and adults, and produce a huge improvement in the knowledge and confidence of the riders.