WHY RIDE?
Thoughts from Claire Pendleton.
Claire has been riding since she was 5. After obtaining BHS qualifications and attending Equestrian College, she started teaching riding in the early 1990's and has run Court equestrian ever since.
Here are a few of her thoughts on riding.
EXERCISE a great way to keep fit
FRESH AIR we all need to get out
SOCIABLE a great way to meet people unwind ,get away from stress. At our yard there is a opportunity for youngsters to learn the responsibility of looking after the horses and ponies , have freedom in a safe environment to build friendships be independent and HAVE FUN
ADRENALINE I feel that to push yourself and learn a sport at any level is very healthy. I do believe that to let off steam and feel the blood pumping through your veins and experience the thrill of riding in the school ,over jumps , cross country or for a hack is great for every one of all ages.
Riding is a potential dangerous activity; learnt correctly on the right sort of horse and the risks are minimised. The thrill of mastering such a complex sport leads to a huge feeling of confidence and satisfaction.
Youngsters need to explore their own physical boundaries and their need for adventure. In this age of busy roads riding offers all this and much more.
Jumping is a great and exciting activity but some people prefer the challenge of dressage that perfect harmony of horse and rider and some people enjoy a hack in our beautiful country side as the ultimate 4 x 4 the horse is a great way to get off the roads!
HORSES COME IN ALL SHAPES AND SIZES
THE MORE ADVANCED RIDE
this horse looks the part sleek and athletic when ridden by experienced riders makes it look very easy
BEWARE the extra gears make them very responsive . Riders be ready for the F1 of the horse world you could go very fast!
THE HORSE THAT MAKES YOU LOOK GOOD
The saints and corner stones of all riding schools. These are the ones we learn to canter and jump on. They do their best to understand our nervous and sometimes half hearted aids.
BEWARE don't take these good natured beasts for granted or they may put you in your place!
THE WORK TO RULE HORSE
these only do exactly what you say. So all your hard learnt skills come in to play.
BEWARE it can be a shock when you get it right and the lazy horses comes to life!
THE SAFE HACK
what can I say enjoy the ride!!
BEWARE you still need to be in command or even after a lovely canter that lovely grass can be tempting . Remember your in charge or they may sneak a snack!
SPEEDY PONIES
What fun they love whizzing round the school and zooming over jumps
BEWARE they can think they know the lesson before the instructor has spoken!
THE LEAD REIN PONY
these very cute and cuddly fellows teach the smalls all they need to know
BEWARE get them off the lead rein and they are full of fun so riders are now in charge!
LIFE WOULD BE BORING IF WE WERE ALL THE SAME!