English riding is a form of horse riding seen throughout the world. There are many variations, but all feature a flat English saddle without the deep seat, high back or saddle horn seen on a Western saddle nor the knee pads seen on an Australian Stock Saddle. Saddles within the various English disciplines are all designed to allow the horse the freedom to move in the optimal manner for a given task, ranging from classical dressage to horse racing. English bridles also vary in style based on discipline, but most feature some type of noseband as well as closed reins, buckled together at the ends, that prevents them from dropping on the ground if a rider becomes unseated. Clothing for riders in competition is usually based on traditional needs from which a specific style of riding developed, but most standards require, as a minimum, boots; breeches or jodhpurs; a shirt with some form of tie or stock; a hat, cap, or equestrian helmet; and a jacket. English riding is an equestrian discipline with many different ...
Western riding in North America originated from the Spanish conquistadors in the 17th Century. As the conquistadors traveled to what is now Texas and California, this style of riding began to spread across the continent.
Both equipment and riding style evolved to meet the working needs of the cowboy in the American West. American cowboys needed to work long hours in the saddle over rough terrain, sometimes needing to rope cattle with a lariat (or lasso). Because of the necessity to control the horse with one hand and use a lariat with the other, western horses were trained to neck rein, that is, to change direction with light pressure of a rein against the horse's neck. Horses were also trained to exercise a certain degree of independence in using their natural instincts to follow the movements of a cow, thus a riding style developed that emphasized a deep, secure seat, and training methods encouraged a horse to be responsive on very light rein contact. Though there are significant differences in ...
What is Equestrian? Getting Started P'tit Trot Program Beginning Riding Lessons English Riding Western Riding Other Disciplines Upcoming Learn to Ride Events
Learning to Ride
So your child loves horses and has expressed a desire to ride? Or maybe you as adult want to start the sport of equestrian and you are not sure where to begin?
You don’t have to incur the expenses of buying and boarding a horse to learn to ride.
Taking lessons at a facility which offers school horses can be the best way for you and yours to begin their equestrian journey.
Choosing a riding facility can seem like a daunting task but there are things you can look for and questions you can ask to help you make an informed decision. Our downloadable Guide for New Riders now available! Click to download PDF version or request a hard copy from the office. Please use the links above to get more information on how to get started on your horse journey... Further questions can be directed to the MHC office at (204) 925-5718 ...
Riding Helmet Safety Here's why you need your ASTM/SEI approved helmet for every ride:
An injured brain does not heal like a broken bone. Even seemingly insignificant head injuries can have serious long-term effects.
Learn to Ride
The following riding/driving programs are supported by MHC. Ask your coach/instructor/trainer which program they use in their lessons.
Only EC Licensed and certified coaches/instructors can evaluate riders in the EC Learn to Ride Program
Coach Directory
The Equestrian Canada (EC), Learn to Ride program is aimed at individuals who wish to become well-rounded riders, able to care for, understand and ride their horses in a correct and safe manner. The Program is available for both English and Western Disciplines. English Rider Level 1-10
Introduces the basics of horsemanship and rider skills covering the basics of riding progressing in skill and learning to Level 10 for high performance athletes. Western Rider Levels 1-4
Begins with the basics and progresses to speed and performance classes.
Buy Handbooks
The Learn to Ride program is designed to be guided by a Certified Instructor or Coach, to ensure that the concepts are clearly understood before the rider ...
Just starting out or getting back in the saddle?
Whether you are ready to take your first lesson, or are interested in finding a new place to ride, Manitoba Horse Council is here for you! We understand that the journey into horse sports can be overwhelming, and we want to help simplify the process. Below you will find a collection of links to help you step into the equestrian world.
It is never too late to rekindle your love of horses. If you’re thinking about getting back into the saddle after some time away, you’re not alone – over half of current riders have chosen to take a prolonged period of time out of the saddle at some point, so you're in good company.
It doesn’t matter whether you’ve all but forgotten how to ride or you’ve just taken a short break, there’s a place to get back in the saddle at whatever level you want.
Horse riding is a great way to socialize, learn new skills and boost your sense of wellbeing. While riding may feel daunting, with the right horse and ...
Horse Week is held annually to promote and celebrate Manitoba's thriving horse industry. A wide range of activities are held across the province, including trail rides, horse shows, charity events and open houses to allow horse enthusiasts and the public alike to celebrate horses! Everyone is encouraged to participate.
All events, regardless of size, take place in the first two weeks of June can apply for Horse Week status and be promoted through MHC.
MHC Horse Week objectives:
Create Awareness
Promote economic impact and significance of Manitoba’s horse industry
Endorse horse welfare
Promote the variety of breeds and disciplines
Provide Education
Identify the benefits that horses and riding provide
Teach the importance of safety around horses
Recognize the importance of recognized riding schools and certified instructors/coaches
Increase Participation
Encourage and increase the practice of equestrian sport and recreation activity in Manitoba and Canada ...
Basic Horsemanship & Trail Riding
A Guide to Basic Horsemanship and Trail Riding in Canada is a discovery tool and reference intended for anyone wishing to learn and share in the world of recreational and trail riding. It covers the trail riding techniques and practices that allow riders to safeguard the horse’s physical and mental health while experiencing an unforgettable adventure in the great outdoors.
To purchase this publication, contact MHC at [email protected]
Use the Trails Guide from your phone!
Click the button below to access this great feature!
Join Us Today ! Take a Peek
Manitoba Horse Council recommends that you research qualifications of potential coaches before you select one. The Manitoba Horse Council implements its coaching program under the instruction and umbrella of the National Equestrian Canada / National Coach Certification Program (NCCP).
The Associations or Organizations certifying the coaches below do not provide NCCP certification; however, they do give entry to coaching certification under EC. Certified Horsemanship Association
To promote excellence in safety and education for the benefit of the entire horse industry. This is accomplished by certifying instructors, accrediting equine facilities and publishing educational resources.
For more information: Certified Horsemanship Association Canadian Pony Club
See website for listings for Canadian Pony Club coaches: www.canadianponyclub.org
Se website for listings for Manitoba Pony Club coaches www.Canadianponyclub.org/Manitoba/
Canadian Pony Club is a member-based association, managed by ...
Horse Shows and Competitions
Have you thought about competing in equestrian sport? Competitions, shows and events are a great way to get involved with the horse community and test your skills.
View Competition Calendar
Do you want to compete or organize a competition?
Manitoba Horse Council offers athlete development opportunities as well as resources for clubs and organizers to host sanctioned competitions. Competitors are required to hold valid memberships in order to participate in provincial and national competitions.
Crocus Series Competitions
Manitoba Horse Council offers a grassroots competition program. Praire Crocus Rule Book 2024
Apply to host a Crocus Competition
Apply for a Guest Card
Concussion Awareness For more information on concussions, safety and riding helmets.
Learn More Accidents & Return to Sport Rule - Equestrian Canada
EC’s concussion-related Accidents & Return to Sport Rule came into effect Jan. 1, 2017 for all EC sanctioned ...
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Overview:
The Manitoba Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association (“HBPA”), located at 3975 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3K 2E9, is looking for:
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Job Title: Horse Grooms
Term: The position is a full time temporary position for the 2019 season starting from March 1, 2019 to approximately September 9, 2019.
Horse Grooms Job Duties: -Provide daily care of horses racing at Assiniboia Downs at 3975 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3K 2E9; -Assist horse trainer with thoroughbred horse training duties -Cleaning stalls, tacking horses, horse grooming, applying medications and bandaging; -Mixing and preparing feed, detecting disease or ailments and reporting to horse owners
Hours: 35 hours per week
Experience Required -Must have on track race horse experience; -Must be able to provide a Criminal Record Check;
Language of Work: English
Wage: $13.50 / hour -no formal education required -accommodations available on grounds ...
Competition Organizer Resources Medication Control Canadian Interprovincial Equestrian Championships (CIEC) Multi-Discipline Team Challenge (MDTC) Heritage Classic Show Circuit Upcoming Manitoba Competition Events Competitions and COVID-19
When competitions are once again permitted in the province, the 'Return to Competition' Protocols produced by Manitoba Horse Council are the guiding document accepted by the Province.
The Return to Competition protocols will apply whether an event is: formally sanctioned (such as EC Bronze, Silver, Gold competitions, etc.) or nominally sanctioned by MHC because it is held by an MHC member club,
Various other groups unaffiliated with MHC may find the Return to Competition protocols and documents useful. It is the document approved by the province for any equestrian/riding activity, not solely Manitoba Horse Council member events,
With the Return to Competition protocols, various elements come into play: Updated Return to Operations - Fall 2020 - ...
P'TIT TROT Western Riding Lessons for Young Kids AGES 6 to 12 - with little or no riding experience
The P’tit Trot program provides children with a pleasant introduction to horseback riding. Depending on the program enrollment level of the participant, some of the learning components may include: grooming, hoof care, general horse care, basic tack, parts of the saddle, adjusting a halter, colors, breeds, how to mount the horse, sitting trot, and transitions between the gaits. Each level has both a theoretical and practical component that participants must learn by the end of the level to move on to the next. Each level focuses on specific components of riding and more importantly, on taking care of the participants’ new friend—the horse! As each component is learned, participants progress to the point where they are able to master a specific skill. Games are incorporated into each component providing the riders the opportunity to learn by playing. Participants will be required to wear appropriate ...
Athlete Development Grants Athlete Development Resources
Horses inspire, motivate, engage and reward us. The Long Term Athlete Development (LTAD) & Long Term Equestrian Development (LTED) models strives to cement the lifelong relationship between horse and athlete. As models, LTAD and LTED provides the Canadian equestrian community with a vision to help us improve our infrastructure, programs and initiatives to ensure the best opportunities are available for all athletes and participants – whatever their personal goals or stage of development. It serves as our true north.
Long-Term Equestrian Development 2.0 Information: Horses inspire, motivate, engage and reward us. LTED 2.0 is an athlete development model built upon proven sport principles and customized to equestrian athletes. It provides a clear and effective pathway for all equestrian athletes - regardless of age, experience, or discipline - to enjoy equestrian sport, whether they aim to compete for Canada on the world stage, or ride, drive ...
2024 Membership Options
Join Us! Memberships and optional insurance coverage run from January 1st-December 31st each year. Each member in good standing with MHC receives Member Liability Insurance and Included Accidental Death & Dismemberment insurance. Competitive Memberships
For anyone competing in horse shows/events Youth (under 18) $58/year Adult (18+) $69/year Golden (70+) $55/year
Recreational Memberships: For those who are not competing - lesson students, hacking in your own arena, riding or driving on your own or with friends, camping or on trails! All ages $47/year Family Memberships: For families with multiple riders; can be two adults, or an adult and a youth (under 18) all living at the same address. $20/youth after the first two members Competitive $138/year (2 adult memberships) + $20/youth Recreation $94/year (2 recreation memberships) + $20/youth Friends of Horses: For those non-horse owners who participate in equine activities occasionally. For people wanting to support ...
Long-Term Equestrian Development 2.0 Information
Horses inspire, motivate, engage and reward us.
LTED 2.0 is an athlete development model built upon proven sport principles and customized to equestrian athletes. It provides a clear and effective pathway for all equestrian athletes - regardless of age, experience, or discipline - to enjoy equestrian sport, whether they aim to compete for Canada on the world stage, or ride, drive or vault recreationally.
LTED is not only about building successful high-performance athletes, but also about ensuring the highest quality riding experience for every person engaged in equestrian sport, including riders with disabilities.
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Latest News
Watch this space for the latest News and Notices on horse happenings in Manitoba and Canada. Events
Use our "Submit Your Event" form to add your club/local events to the MHC Events Calendar on /Events-All .
We also want as much input from Manitoba clubs (and others) so please send news releases, award winners, show results etc to [email protected] . We will use this news as part of our local news pages in The Canadian Horse Journal and website. We can also share your news with our Facebook pages. We are here to promote YOUR club!
Tick Season!
Get help on identifying ticks, recognizing signs and symptoms of Lyme and other tick-borne diseases, and when, where and how to report.
Learn More
Mid-Week Group Riding at the Equestrian Facility (Mondays - Thursdays starting at 4:30pm) $100/evening - 1-10 horses $10/horse - more than 10 horses
Enjoy a group ride in the sand ring while enjoying the beauty of Birds Hill Park. Whether it’s a guided practice with ...
Equestrian Canada (NCCP) Coach Certification
In Manitoba, all coaches are required to register with MHC and su bmit their professional development information annually. MHC is dedicated to providing instructors/coaches with the necessary tools to create a welcoming, inclusive and safe equestrian experience for all participants, horse and human, and to develop excellence in horsemanship. MHC is committed to the Equestrian Canada National Coaching Certification Program (EC NCCP) as it is: The only Canadian equestrian coaching and instructor certification program It is recognized national and internationally for its safety standards.
Manitoba Horse Council Equestrian Facility
The Horse Council operates a 40-acre outdoor equestrian showgrounds in beautiful Birds Hill Provincial Park, Manitoba.
Interested in booking the facility?
Booking Request
Other Documents Facility Amenities Rules of Use Birds Hill Park Map Equestrian Facility Map Barn A Stabling Layout Barn B Stabling Layout EC Guidelines for Equine Competition and Training During Extreme Environment Conditions
Member Clubs in Manitoba
Below is an alphabetical order listing of member clubs belonging to Manitoba Horse Council. Contact these clubs for more information on their equestrian activities, how to join, etc. Club Memberships and insurance
Learn More
Researching A Coach
Manitoba Horse Council recommends that you research the qualifications of potential coaches before you select one. Manitoba Horse Council implements its coaching program under the instruction and umbrella of the National Equestrian Canada / National Coach Certification Program. Equestrian Canada/NCCP Coach Directory
Find a Coach
The Associations or Organizations certifying the coaches below do not provide NCCP certification; however, they do give entry to coaching certification under EC.
Membership Insurance Coverage Insurance included and/or available as an option with MHC membership is provided to you through Acera Insurance Services Ltd ., (formerly CapriCMW Insurance Services Ltd.) the licensed insurance broker and Administrator for the member insurance program. Any and all enquiries related to insurance MUST BE directed to Acera Insurance at 1-800-670-1877 (equine department). MHC is not licensed to sell or provide counsel on insurance coverage. Insurance premiums are considered fully earned on the date of purchase. Memberships and insurance products cannot be cancelled, are non-refundable and expire December 31 of the member year.
A pathway to safer sport
Safe Sport is an environment where individuals can have a healthy, supportive, and respectful sport experience, free from all forms of harassment and abuse. The Universal Code of Conduct to Prevent and Address Maltreatment in Sport calls for all sporting environments to be free from physical, sexual and psychological abuse.
Athlete Scholarships & Grants
Scholarships
R.D. Payne Equine Scholarship
A $1,000 scholarship is awarded to an individual striving to advance their equestrian abilities and, ultimately, pursue a career in the equine industry. Deadline to apply: 4:30 p.m. Second Friday in September.
Learn More
2024 EC Temporary Coach Status Read More
BIOSECURITY: Horse health starts on the farm. Biosecurity: Measures that prevent the introduction and spread of contagious diseases.
Biosecurity planning helps to ensure that practices routinely carried out on your farm are beneficial to the health of your horse(s). By adopting the guidelines below and working with a veterinarian you can play a significant role in keeping your horses and your industry as healthy as possible.