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 ...
Insurance Coverage
Insurance included and/or available as an option with MHC membership is provided to you through Acera 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.
Planning and Organizing a Competition
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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 accredited ...
Getting Started with Horseback Riding
No matter your age, taking lessons at an equestrian facility that offers riding lessons on school horses is one of the best ways to begin your equestrian journey. With the right instruction, you will learn the basics safely, build confidence, and develop good riding habits from day one.
Choosing a riding facility can feel overwhelming—but a little research (and a few helpful questions) can make it much easier to find the right fit.
Find a Coach
Finding a qualified, certified coach is central to your equestrian journey. A coach provides expert guidance, personalized training plans, and support as you work toward your goals.
Equestrian Canada's national coaching database lists all certified, active coaches across Canada:
Find a Coach
What to Look for in a Coach
When choosing a coach, consider their certification, experience, and teaching style. A certified coach has completed specific training and has met nationally recognized standards to coach ...
Serving Manitoba's Equine Community for over 50 years
Register Today
The Manitoba Horse Council (MHC) acts as the provincial governing body for equestrian sport and industry, championing representation, promotion, and advancement of all equine interests.
Serving 2,000+ members, 5,000 horses, and 21 clubs, MHC contributes to the social, physical, emotional, and economic vitality of Manitoba's equestrian sector. Our programs and clubs provide education, competition, and community to riders across the province. Recognized as a provincial sport organization, MHC gratefully acknowledges Sport Manitoba for their financial support.
MEMBERSHIPS LEARN TO RIDE FACILITY
ASK AN EXPERT EVENTS COACHING
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Overview:
The Manitoba Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association ("HBPA"), located at
3975 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3K 2E9, is looking for:
---------
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
-Workplace insurance and ...
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. Adopt the Sport Manitoba Safe Sport Policy Manual (April 1, 2026).
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 requiring a provincial vote
Support for Member Clubs
MHC member Clubs have access to financial ...
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 easier to ...
Every equestrian journey begins with learning.
LearnTo , developed by Equestrian Canada and the provincial/territorial equestrian sport organisations, is the national learning framework that provides clear, progressive pathways for athletes and participants of all ages and experience levels. It builds practical skills, confidence, knowledge, and a lifelong commitment to horse welfare.
Wherever your journey takes you, LearnTo helps you create a strong foundation for safe, enjoyable, and rewarding experiences with horses.
LearnTo is made up of learning streams that work together to support your equestrian journey.
LearnToCare
The foundation of all equestrian sport is understanding how to handle and care for horses. LearnToCare develops the essential knowledge and practical skills needed for safe horse handling, daily care, health, welfare, and stable management. It can be completed alongside other LearnTo streams or as a standalone learning pathway for anyone who wants to build confidence around ...
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) ...
Prairie Crocus Competitions
Manitoba Horse Council offers provincial sanctioning and a grassroots competition program.
Prairie Crocus Rule Book
Competitive Trail Riding Amendment
Distance Riders Amendment
Working Equitation Amendment MHC to use WECan rules for Prairie Crocus Competitions
Rule Clarification: Fly Masks in Jumping Competitions
Certificate of Insurance
All competition organizers must have a certificate of insurance upon applying for sanctioning. Officials should be named as additional insured.
INSURANCE APPLICATION
Guest Card
Apply for a Guest Card
Basic 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 ...
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.
Introducing Victory Vault Sweepstakes
Supporting Amateur Athletes across Manitoba!
Win thousands in cash prizes while ticket proceeds fund Manitoba Horse Council initiatives and directly help our young athletes. Victory Vault Sweepstakes, expanding into Manitoba April 15, 2026, will offer Manitobans weekly chances to win cash prizes while
supporting athletes across the province.
Rising Costs, Falling Participation
According to the 2024 Jumpstart State of Play Youth Report, 47% of people say cost is the number-one reason they don't participate in sports—making affordability the single biggest barrier to play across Canada.
Families report spending hundreds to thousands of dollars annually per child on sports, a cost that continues to rise—especially for hockey and other competitive programs. The State of Play survey found that cost is a consistent barrier across every
region, race, and gender, proving that affordability challenges are nationwide. That's where Victory Vault Sweepstakes comes ...
This is our current Privacy Policy, last updated 22 June 2022:
Privacy Policy
"Organization" refers to: MANITOBA HORSE COUNCIL INC.
For not-for-profit organizations in Manitoba, the privacy of personal information is governed by the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA). This Policy is based on the standards required by PIPEDA as interpreted by the Organization
Definitions
The following terms have these meanings in this Policy:
"Commercial Activity" – any particular transaction, act or conduct that is of a commercial character.
"Participants" – Refers to all categories of individual members and/or registrants defined in the By-laws of the Organization who are subject to the policies of the Organization, as well as all people employed by, contracted by, or engaged in activities with the Organization including, but not limited to, employees, contractors, Athletes, coaches, instructors, officials, volunteers, managers, administrators, committee members, parents or ...
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.
Here to support you!
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our current sponsors for their support of our passion and our sport! The organizations provide discounts and services to MHC members, and they also support our programming through donations. Learn more about our Partnering Sponsorship program and how you can connect to Manitoba's horse community.
Become a Sponsor
To learn more about the benefits these Sponsors are offering MHC members
View Offers
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 support to give you ...
What is Safe Sport?
Safe sport refers to an environment that prioritizes the physical and psychological well-being of all participants. It involves a commitment to providing optimal experiences, while actively preventing and addressing all forms of maltreatment, including abuse, harassment, neglect, and discrimination. Advancing safe sport is a shared responsibility that requires awareness, education, and clear actions for reporting. This page provides resources and guidance to help advance safe sport in equestrian and horse-related activities.
The Protecting Youth in Sports Act (PYSA)
The Protecting Youth in Sports Act enhances protection measures for young athletes in Manitoba's sport system. All Provincial Sport Organizations (PSOs), including the Manitoba Horse Council, must adhere to the following requirements:
Adopt the policies outlined in the Safe Sport Policy Manual.
Make safe sport information available to parents and young athletes.
Ensure coaches complete required screening and ...
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!
Applications are accepted between January 1-31 of the calendar year.
Athletes will have access to:
-Dietician
-Mental Performance Coach
-Personal trainer
Athletes are required to:
-Apply before January 31
-Attend the in person meeting on February 14
-Attend monthly coaching sessions online (2nd Wednesday of each month at 7:30 PM)
Cost:
-$250/athlete plus GST
Apply Today
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.
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]
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.
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)
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.
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.
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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