Officials with RUS Ontario have announced that the organization and the Ivy Lodge Equestrian Centre are sponsoring a March 8 seminar on all topics Racing Under Saddle.
The day will begin with a mock fitness trial to be held at the University of Guelph’s Gryphon Field House, 55 East Ring Rd. The seminar will than move to Ivy Lodge Equestrian Centre, 756 Watson Rd. with short lectures and the chance to ride in a Monte saddle.
The fitness test will begin at 12 noon at the U of G’s Gryphon Field House. The fitness test will challenge the rider’s ability to run three kilometres in under 15 minutes, as well as being able to continuously do push-ups, sit-ups and jumps for one minute each. The final test is being able to do a one-minute plank. While the test is not mandatory yet; it is strongly recommended for all interested riders. Fitness tests like the one that will be conducted are mandatory for riders all over Europe and in years to come will be part of the licensing procedures in North America.
The remainder of the day will take place at Ivy Lodge Equestrian Centre and will include exciting and informative talks on topics from Ontario Racing Commission rules, how to talk to trainers about riding their horses, rider etiquette, and the mobile starting gate. The day will conclude with an opportunity to get on a horse in Monte tack and receive some helpful tips from successful riders. Organizers anticipate start time at Ivy Lodge to be 2 p.m.
This challenging day is the best place for any aspiring rider to begin, and is a tremendous chance for experienced riders to test their physical fitness as well as offer help and encouragement to novices. Light snacks and refreshments will be served in the heated viewing lounge at Ivy Lodge. The Field House is heated as well.
Please visit rusontario.com or RUS Ontario on Facebook for RSVP information. Participants are urged to confirm attendance as early as possible to ensure that plenty of horses are available for riders, but last-minute reservations will be accepted.
(With files from RUS Ontario)