The Western Learn to Ride Program is Composed of Two Components, Rider Levels 1-4 and the Intermediate Rider Program.
Break down of the Western Rider Levels and Intermediate Programs
Western Rider Level 1-4 Program
Rider Level 1
Candidates will be taught:
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Place and adjust a halter and tie the horse
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Demonstrate proper grooming
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Demonstrate proper horse handling on the ground
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Saddle and bridle correctly
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Mount and dismount in an acceptable manner
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Maintain an acceptable position of:
a.)The body, b.) The legs, c.) The hands
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At the 3 gaits: walk, jog, lope
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Demonstrate the proper aids for the three gaits and recognition of leads
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Demonstrate properly the elementary method of stopping and backing up
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Demonstrate and explain the rein effects of the direct and opening rein
Rider Level 2
Candidates will be taught how to:
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The proper riding position with the use of one hand and two handed positions
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How to post on the correct diagonal and change diagonals
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Maintain a proper riding position of the:
a) Body b) Legs c) Hands
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Variations of speed at the lope
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Execute transitions of the gaits
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Name and demonstrate the effects of the indirect rein and the neck rein
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Be able to identify the correct lead (within 5-6 strides)
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Execute correctly all practical work referred to in Rider I
Rider Level 3
Candidates will be taught how to:
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Explain the rein of opposition
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Bandage four legs correctly
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Name and describe three bits and explain their use
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Rider turnout will include overall performance and attitudes, clothing, neatness and conduct
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Name and demonstrate the effect of leg aids
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Execute turn on the forehand
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Execute turn on the haunches
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Execute with proficiency all practical work covered in Rider I and II
Rider Level 4
Candidates will be taught how to:
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Understand and explain basic collection
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Execute a simple change of leads from both directions
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Demonstrate proper lungeing procedures
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Demonstrate and explain side pass
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Demonstrate and explain two-track movements
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Demonstrate all practical work referred to in Rider I, II and III
WESTERN INTERMEDIATE RIDER PROGRAM
The Western Intermediate Rider Program was developed for those individuals who wish to discover the many disciplines available in western riding at the competitive level, from Western Performance to Reining to Speed Events.
In order to participate in the Intermediate Rider Program, candidates must hold a current Equestrian NS membership and a Western Level 4 certificate.
Please note that the general component section of the Intermediate Rider Manual is renamed "Basic Training". A passing mark in the Basic Training rider exam is a pre-requisite to the new Western Competition Coach Certification (which is still pending www.equinecanada.com)
The Western Intermediate Rider Manual covers the following rider levels:
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General Component: consists of a horsemanship riding test, lunging the green or problem horse, bandaging (including first aid) and a written test
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Western Pleasure
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Western Horsemanship
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Western Trail
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Western Riding
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Showmanship
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Barrel Racing
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Pole Bending
Reining Patterns are available in the Western Intermediate Rider Manual
