Search Results for western
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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) ...
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 ...
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.
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.
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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
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Membership Information
If you are a brand new member OR have been a MHC member in the past who has not used the online membership system before, please create an initial User Name and Password by using the Sign Up page (you'll be asked to create an account by providing basic contact information).
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