Clinic raises funds for local pony club

Justin Seward
Times Reporter

 

The Wheatland Equestrian Centre held a horse-riding clinic on Nov. 22-23 at the facility’s arena.
The proceeds from the two-day clinic will go towards the member riders of the Wheatland County Pony Club for events during the season.
The riders, who were young and old, were being taught by one of the country’s renowned high jump horse riders, Cathy Inch.
“I’m originally from Ontario (and) I was looking at trying to do something for the pony club and thought of a clinic and the easiest way I could think of was to go back to Ontario (roots) because I haven’t been here that long,” said Cathy Boddington, clinic organizer.
Riders of the club were thrilled to have an ambassador come in and expand their knowledge of the sport.
“It’s a lot of riding skills, basics for structure, position, patience. Instead of making the horse do something, she makes you work with it,” said Heather Maskell, owner of the Equestrian Centre barn.
Riders also got a chance to experience a different angle of coaching.
“It’s mainly set up for the Wheatland Pony Club as a fundraiser. It helps the participants because it gives them a different educational experience so they can learn from a different coach, so they can add to their repertoire of riding abilities,” said Boddington. “Proceeds will help with the different pony club programs that are run through all the province and throughout the year. So they have things like the quiz, rally and some competitions.”
The clinic provided more confidence and life skills between the rider and the horse.
“It does foster relationships that continue on into life. It gives them leadership skills assertiveness, and self-confidence,” said Boddington.
She said if all goes well they would like to hold another clinic in the spring.