The Bemont Riding Academy offers lessons to beginning to intermediate riders -- from the first time on a horse to those jumping up to two feet. Students will learn both engish riding and horse management skills. There are two levels of lessons and once the student has graduated from both, he/she will be able to join small group lessons with other riders of the same skill level.

We have safe, fun ponies and horses available for your child to use for lessons. These are not the unresponsive horses that you may have experienced at some horse rental locations; please look at the photos throughout our website and note the signs of happy ponies -- ears forward, working well for the child with a slightly loose rein, and the best indicator of all -- happy children riding them! We have spent years finding these ponies and take very good care of them -- a pony that will happily teach a child to ride is worth his weight in gold (but they much prefer carrots!).

LEVEL 1: Level one consists of ten lessons for the student new to horses and/or riding. At the end of level one, the student will be able to ride in the arena without a lead line, ride with the basic balanced position at the halt and walk, and control the horse at the walk and trot. The student will also be expected to have some basic horse management skills with assistance.

LEVEL 2: Level two consists of ten lessons for the student who has graduated from level one. At the end of level two, the student should be able to ride in the arena safely at the walk, trot, and canter, as well as demonstrating the beginnings of the jumping position. More extensive knowledge of horse management skills will be expected, including the ability to tack up the horse, with some assistance if necessary.

Group Lessons: Group Lessons are for those students who have graduated from Levels 1 and 2, or those who come to the Academy with comparable riding skills. Students will be taught in small groups and will progress in their riding and horse management skills. Jumping position will be taught, followed by ground pole work, and eventually cross-rails or even jumping up to 2'. Safety will be stressed at all levels, and progression will occur for each child at their own rate.

Commentary: Riding is an athletic sport that can be enjoyed by all ages both for pleasure and competitively. Top international riders are often in their 40's or 50's, and you can find riders into their 70's competing at shows including demanding three-day events...this is a sport for a lifetime...not just a few years or into their teens. Even if your child finds that it's not their lifelong passion, they will treasure the experiences and will remember the many lessons learned.

What are the Benefits of Riding?

Riding and especially owning a horse or pony, is not a cheap sport, but it can have great benefits for children and families. Riding is a healthy outdoor sport; it can be enjoyed alone, in a group, as part of a team or as a family activity, and this enjoyment can be lifelong. Children are naturally attracted to animals and to the challenge of riding. Riding and caring for a pony can teach them kindness, patience, responsibility and perseverance, while taking instruction and working with other young riders can help instill self-discipline, good sportsmanship, and self-esteem. Of course, these virtues don't come automatically from taking riding lessons or buying a pony; they require guidance, leadership and, ideally, family participation. Sharing the joys, work, growth and challenges of riding is a good way to bring children and families together and it give children a healthy and positive outlet for their interest, time and energy. For some children, riding may be an avenue for high achievement or even a career. While the challenge of competition is important to some, riding can be enjoyed simply as a wholesome recreation that puts us in touch with nature and with a wonderful and responsive animal. (excerpted from the Pony Club manual (available on www.ponyclub.org)

In my opinion, a horse is the animal to have. 1100 pounds of raw muscle, power, grace, and sweat between your legs - it's something you just can't get from a pet hamster.

Please contact Barbara to reserve your spot -- email: belmont1@tds.net or call 360-263-3054