The Daring of Driving
Driving is an unmounted equestrian discipline in which one or more horses pulls the driver(s) in a carriage. Like all equestrian disciplines, driving can be for recreation and pleasure, or for sport. Competitive driving competitions include four-in-hand, pairs, singles, and tandems. There are 3 types of driving competitions: presentation/dressage, marathon, and obstacle driving. A popular combination of these is called Combined Driving.
Combined Driving is the equivalent to ridden eventing (see English), testing the horse and driver’s courage, stamina, and versatility. The three phases include: Dressage (see above) in which the horse, while pulling a carriage, must demonstrate a series of movements and demonstrate willingness, obedience, balance, and suppleness; Marathon in which there are several phases, including the navigation of obstacles over varied terrain where each obstacle has a start and finish and is timed separately; and Obstacles (cones) in which the carriage, ...
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.
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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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
Planning and Organizing a Competition Give back to your Volunteers with our Volunteer Recognition Program
Recognize A Volunteer Now!
Organizing a horse show requires long days and even longer days on the actual competition date(s). There are numerous aspects to consider when hosting a competition from deciding what types of classes you would like to offer, having the right insurance, and finding the right official to ensure fair and professional judging. At Manitoba Horse Council (MHC) we want to make your life a little easier by providing you with resources and links to information to ensure a safe and fun competition for all. What is a sanctioned competition?
Hundreds of horse shows are held across the province. While some are sanctioned (approved) by MHC or EC, others are run independently without any sort of endorsement. It is not mandatory to sanction a horse show; however, there are tangible benefits for organizers who choose to register their horse shows. Without sanctioning, EC ...
MHC Equestrian Centre Facilities
Manitoba Horse Council owns and operates its Equestrian Facility in beautiful Bird's Hill Provincial Park, Manitoba.
The MHC Equestrian Facility is built on approximately 40 acres of land leased from the Provincial government. It has undergone numerous upgrades over past years to ensure this 1967 and 1999 Pan American Games site remains current - not only for equestrian enthusiasts but for all who visit. Interested in booking the Facility for an event, competition, clinic, or camp?
Facility Rentals
Contact the Manitoba Horse Council office at (204) 925-5719 or email [email protected]
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 ...
Responsible Horse Ownership
Encouraging and supporting responsible horse ownership is the cornerstone of horse health and welfare. At MHC, we want to provide the information and resources horse owners need to ensure that every horse - from companion to elite athlete - thrives throughout their life. We support the work of the World Horse Welfare agency and their work to improve the lives of horses and the horse-human partnership in all of its forms. World Horse Welfare VISIT WEBSITE
EC announces the release of selection criteria for the 2024 FEI North American Youth Championships (NAYC) in dressage and jumping. These documents outline the procedures and criteria used by EC to nominate athlete and horse combinations.
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