Join horse enthusiasts across the country supporting the interests of equestrian sport, recreation and industry.
The Manitoba Horse Council (MHC), along with 10 other provinces and territory, is a Provincial/Territorial Sports Organization (PTSO) member in good standing with Equestrian Canada (EC).
To be eligible to apply for Equestrian Canada Competitive Sport Licenses, enter into the EC Learn to Ride, Coaching, and Official Certification and Recognition programs, purchase EC Horse Passports, and access other EC programs, Manitobans must first be a member of MHC.
MHC Equestrian Facility Rental Forms
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
Download our Facility Brochure
Contact the Manitoba Horse Council office at (204) 925-5719 or email [email protected]
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.
Visit Website
What was the CIEC?
Held for 5 years with the last being event being 2017, the Canadian Interprovincial Equestrian Championships was a team event, and a sanctioned Equestrian Canada (EC) competition. It offered athletes in the Learning and Training to Compete and the Learning and Training to Win stages within the Long-Term Equestrian Development (LTED) model, the opportunity to test their skills against their peers from across Canada.
It was a collaborative event between the national and provincial sport organizations governing equestrian competition, whereby provincial/territorial sport organizations field teams representing their respective province/territory. It also acted as a key event in the development of equestrian’s next generation of national, international and world champions. It was a platform for talent identification for athletes, coaches and officials.
Dear Coaches,
In an effort to remove a layer of challenge and frankly put a little money back into your pockets, we are making a change to the Professional Liability Insurance requirement for coaches. We know everyone renews their insurance at different times, so we wanted to get this information out to you as soon as possible.
Effective November 25, 2024, to coincide with our upcoming licensing renewals period, Professional Liability Insurance will no longer be required for Equestrian Canada coaches, with the exception of High Performance Contractor Coaches and High Performance Technical Advisors. Although Equestrian Canada strongly recommends this coverage, and advises you check with your individual broker in each case, the decision was made in consideration of the challenges some coaches have faced in securing this type of coverage.
We appreciate there will be a period of adjustment as we work to update files, and we appreciate your assistance as we work our way through this. Please take a few ...
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
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 NCCP 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. Wish to be evaluated?
Complete the Candidate Application Form . Are you a facility who wishes to host an evaluation?
Complete the Host application Form.
Are you a ...
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 ...
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
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.
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
Discover your Manitoba Horse Council
Manitoba Horse Council (MHC) is a not-for-profit organization representing 23 clubs and 1900 individual members involved in equine activity in Manitoba. MHC is the recognized provincial/territorial sport organization for equestrian sport in Manitoba.
Medication Control for Equine and Humans
All equestrians are to practice anti-doping measures and fair medication control to safeguard the health and welfare of equines.
How to Become an Official
Manitoba Horse Council recognizes both our own Provincial Officials and those who have been approved by organizations such as Equestrian Canada, AQHA, and other affiliations.
MHC Provincial Officials Program
Manitoba Horse Council is pleased to offer a Provincial Officials Program (POP) for those wishing to to become involved in the sport as equestrian officials. POP offers training and professional development to recruit and sustain our sport with well-trained officials.
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. Prairie Crocus Rule Book 2024 Hosting a Prairie Crocus Event
Step 1: Apply by clicking here
Step 2: Once approved and show is complete, enter results in this template
Step 3: Submit results by clicking here
Apply for a Guest Card
Concussion Awareness For more information on concussions, safety and riding helmets.
Learn More Accidents & Return to Sport ...
MHC represents over 2,000 equine enthusiasts
Equestrians love their horses and the industry. It's important to us that we support them as much as we can so they can help make the horse industry thrive in Manitoba.
If you feel that your business is a good fit and have products or services our members can benefit from, we'd love to hear from you. We’ll work with you to set up marketing opportunities that’ll highlight your business to our community.
Equine Guelph Partnership Equine Guelph offers concise training for MHC members on horse care, health, and welfare at a 15% Discount!
Members will earn continuing education credits and certificates of completion; in addition, Equestrian Canada certified instructors/coaches may apply these certificates towards their professional development credits.
Learn More Equine Guelph Equine Job Track Equine Guelph has created an equine sector job portal where employers can post their jobs and individuals looking can apply for jobs in the industry.
Learn More
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 ...
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.
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 ...
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 - ...
Equestrian Canada Officials
Click the button to pull up all Manitoba EC-certified officials, or search a discipline, name etc.
Find an Official
Club Memberships
Membership of Manitoba Horse Council's (MHC) club network is for provincial, regional, and local equine organizations which engage in the promotion and development of equestrian sport and recreation activities in Manitoba and which meet the following criteria:
1. Minimum of 10 members;
2. Not-for-profit, volunteer based and democratic;
3. Written constitution;
4. Regular meetings;
5. Elections of directors and officers;
6. Maintain financial records which are available on request to MHC.
7. Agrees to Dispute Resolution as mandated by Sport Manitoba;
8. Agrees to Safe Sport policies and principles for competition as mandated by national sporting body.
Equine clubs are the foundation of Manitoba Horse Council and receive one vote per issue at the MHC Annual General Meeting and/or Council of Clubs. Some items subject to voted approval of MHC member Clubs include: Election of MHC Board of Directors Approval of MHC By-Law change Provincial or local issues National issues ...
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 ...
Club Membership
Equine clubs are the foundation of Manitoba Horse Council and receive one vote on any issue at the MHC Annual General Meeting and/or Council of Clubs meetings. Some items subject to voted approval of MHC member Clubs include: • Provincial or local issues • National issues requiring a Provincial vote • Election of MHC Board of Directors • Approval of MHC By-Law changes
Membership of Manitoba Horse Council's (MHC) club network is for provincial, regional, and local equine organizations (need not be based in Manitoba) which engage in the promotion and development of equestrian sport and recreation activities in Manitoba and which meet the following criteria: 1. Have a minimum of 10 members; 2. Are not-for-profit, volunteer based and democratic; 3. Have a written constitution; 4. Hold regular meetings; 5. Hold elections of directors and officers; 6. Maintain financial records which are available on request to MHC. Membership benefits
Benefits to a club are ...
Extended Memberships are available now Learn More Serving Manitoba’s Equine Community for 50 years
Manitoba Horse Council (MHC) is the not-for-profit organization representing clubs and individual members involved in equine activity in Manitoba.
MHC provides support, leadership and resources to develop all phases of equestrian sports and to improve and develop equestrian athletes in Manitoba. MHC works to promote the interests of Manitoba’s equestrian enthusiasts and clubs.
MEMBERSHIPS LEARN TO RIDE FACILITY NEWS EVENTS COACHING
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, ...
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 ...
Equestrian Canada Rider Levels
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 ...
What is the Manitoba Premises Identification program?
Prepared by Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives (MAFRI), the Manitoba Premises Identification program is designed to protect, plan for, and manage livestock, poultry, and equines in health and food safety emergencies by linking animals to a specific location. Examples of emergencies include disease outbreak, flood, or other disaster. The Manitoba Premises Identification (ID) program is now mandatory for equine property owners .
Only have a horse or two in your backyard? Premises identification is for all equine property owners. No herd or flock too small for a premises identification number. CLICK HERE to view the Manitoba Government article titled as such, dated December 12, 2011. How do I obtain a Premises ID number for my property?
Application Form: http://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/food-safety/traceability/premises-identification.html
Identifying your premises is even simpler now! We now have an application form that is ...
MHC Provincial Officials
All MHC Officials are required to complete their application on a yearly basis (resetting on January). If you are an EC, CHA, AQHA, etc judge you can be used as a judge in the province with a guest card. If you are NOT on this list, but should be complete the form below. Lynne Miller-General Performance Judge & Hunter Jumper Judge [email protected]
Shandi Jonasson General Performance [email protected]
Jane Haglund-Scott - Hunter Jumper Judge [email protected] Jane Haglund-Scott - Hunter Jumper Steward [email protected] Application to become an Official Equestrian Canada Officials Directory
To find an official for your next event
Check the Directory
Promoting safe road sharing for horses and vehicles
Hand Signals used by Horse Riders According to Manitoba’s Highway Traffic Act, horse riders and drivers of horse-drawn carriages have the same right to use the road as other users and must follow the same rules, but many motorists, bikers, cyclists and other road users are unaware of their own responsibilities in road sharing.
Use the Trails Guide from your phone!
Click the button below to access this great feature!
Join Us Today !
Coaching options in Manitoba Grassroots Provincial Coaching Designation NCCP Coaching Certification Alternative approved designations (Pony Club, Cantra, CHA) Become a Provincial Coach Today!
Get Started!
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.
Support for Member Clubs
MHC member Clubs have access to financial assistance through various programs and grants: $2,500 Annual Recreation Grant in total to approved projects. Applications may be received from Member Clubs and individual members for projects designed to aid and enhance the development of recreation-specific projects. MHC's Provincial Clinic Support program is designed to aid Clubs in providing high-caliber clinics and workshops to its members, subject to a maximum available per approved clinic/Club in a calendar year. Program Support Grants available twice each year to support club activities such as clinics, competitions, volunteer awards, bursaries, and equipment purchase/maintenance. The grants are funded by Sport Manitoba and MHC is responsible for reporting activities in a way which supports the Integrated Funding Formula applied by annually by MHC.
Club Information
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.
Emergency Plans
MHC Emergency Help for Equines & Equine Owners
Manitoba Horse Council has maintained a resource list of individuals and businesses that have generously offered to aid equines and equine owners in an emergency situation (eg. flood evacuation) by providing temporary stabling / acreage for equines, or equine transportation. Note: This does not constitute emergency veterinarian care or regular situations and duties overseen by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) or city police (911)
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 ...
2024 EC Temporary Coach Status Read More
Continuing Education Opportunities Registered Coach Status will disappear by the end of 2024
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.
Crocus Series Competitions
Manitoba Horse Council offers a grassroots competition program. Prairie Crocus Rule Book 2024
Certificate of Insurance
All competition organizers must have a certificate of insurance upon applying for sanctioning Hosting a Prairie Crocus Competition-All Disciplines-Prize money up to $5000
Step 1: Apply for sanctioning by clicking here.
Step 2: Once the competition is sanctioned and the competition is complete, enter results in this template
Step 3: Show secretary or Show organizer must submit the competition results (by using the template above) no later than 10 days after the competition by clicking here
Step 4: Show secretary or Show organizer must submit competition demographics no later than 10 days after the competition by clicking here
Step 5: Judges must submit a post event report no later than 10 days after the competition by clicking here
Step 6: In the event a Steward or TD is being used, each Steward and TD must complete a post event report no ...
MHC Team Challenge 2024
Each individual collected points for their team by competition results, social media posts/tags, volunteer hours, attending clinics or other equine educational events, and logging ride and drive hours.
Competition ran from May 1 to September 30.
Hear about the challenge from the team members themselves!
Learn More Monthly bonus challenges:
May-Social Media
June-Volunteer hours
July-Education & Competition results
August-Recreation hours, Education, & social media
September-Education Competitor login
Are you a coach in Manitoba?
Each year we require ALL coaches to complete our Privacy Release form in order to confirm they are still current.
Privacy Release Manitoba Horse Council recognizes a variety of coaching designations.
Learn More To find an EC licensed and certified coach
Find a Coach
Coach Respect in Sport certification and screening proudly supported by Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries