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Skin By Sacred Time is now: 15th December 2010 - 04:15 AM Powered By IP.Board 2.3.6 © 2010 IPS, Inc . || Equestrianism From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation , search For the Roman order, see Equestrian order . This article needs additional citations for verification . Please help improve this article by adding reliable references . Unsourced material may be challenged and removed . (October 2008) A young rider at a horse show in Australia Equestrianism (from Latin equester, equestr-, horseman , horse ) [ 1 ] more often known as riding , horseback riding (American English) or horse riding (British English) [ 2 ] refers to the skill of riding, driving, or vaulting with horses . This broad description includes the use of horses for practical working purposes, recreational activities, artistic or cultural exercises, and competitive sports . Contents 1 Overview of equestrian activities 2 History of horse use 3 Horse racing 3.1 Types of horse racing 4 Olympic disciplines 5 Haute École 6 Horse shows 7 "English" riding 8 "Western" riding 9 Rodeo 9.1 Timed events 9.2 Roping 9.3 "Rough Stock" competition 10 Harness 11 Other equestrian activities 11.1 Arena sports 11.2 Horse sports that use cattle 11.3 Defined area sports 11.4 Cross-country sports 12 Health issues 12.1 Mechanisms of injury 12.2 Types and severity of injury 12.3 Riding astride 13 Criticism of horses in sport 14 Horse riding on coinage 15 See also 16 References 17 External links [ edit ] Overview of equestrian activities A stunt rider at a Devon agricultural show A young Tibetan rider. Horse riding is an essential means of transportation in parts of the world where the landscape does not permit other means Horses are trained and ridden for practical working purposes such as in police work or for controlling herd animals on a ranch . They are also used in competitive sports including, but not limited to, dressage , endurance riding , eventing , reining , show jumping , tent pegging , vaulting , polo , horse racing , driving , and rodeo . (See additional equestrian sports listed later in this article for more examples.) Some popular forms of competition are grouped together at horse shows , where horses perform in a wide variety of disciplines. Horses (and other equids such as mules and donkeys ) are used for non-competitive recreational riding such as fox hunting , trail riding or hacking. There is public access to horse trails in almost every part of the world; many parks, ranches , and public stables offer both guided and independent riding. Horses are also used for therapeutic purposes, both in specialized paraequestrian competition as well as non-competitive riding to improve human health and emotional development. Horses are also driven in harness racing , at horse shows and in other types of exhibition, historical reenactment or ceremony, often pulling carriages . In some parts of the world, they are still used for practical purposes such as farming . Horses continue to be used in public service: in traditional ceremonies (parades, funerals), police and volunteer mounted patrols, and for mounted search and rescue . [ edit ] History of horse use Main articles: Domestication of the horse and Horses in warfare See also: Horses in the Middle Ages Though there is controversy over the exact date horses were domesticated and when they were first ridden; the best estimate is that horses first were ridden approximately 4500 BC. Indirect evidence suggests that horses were ridden long before they were driven. There is some evidence that about 6,000 years ago, near the Dneiper River and the Don River , people were using bits on horses, as a stallion that was buried there shows teeth wear consistent with using a bit. [ 3 ] However, the most unequivocal early archaeological evidence of equines put to working use was of horses being driven. Chariot burials about 2500 BC present the most direct hard evidence of horses used as working animals . In ancient times chariot warfare was followed by the use of war horses as light and heavy cavalry . The horse played an important role throughout human history all over the world, both in warfare and in peaceful pursuits such as transportation , trade and agriculture . Horses lived in North America, but died out at the end of the Ice Age . Horses were brought back to North America by European explorers, beginning with the second voyage of Columbus in 1493. [ 4 ] [ edit ] Horse racing Main articles: Horse racing , Harness racing , and Parimutuel gambling Humans appear to have long expressed a desire to know which horse (or horses) were the fastest, thus horse racing has ancient roots. Gambling on horse races appears to go hand-in hand with racing and has a long history as well. Thoroughbreds have the pre-eminent reputation as a racing breed, but other breeds also race. [ edit ] Types of horse racing Under saddle: Thoroughbred horse racing is the most popular form worldwide. In the UK, it is known as flat racing and is governed by the Jockey Club in the United Kingdom. In the USA, horse racing is governed by the Jockey Club of North America. Steeplechasing involves racing on a track where the horses also jump over obstacles. It is most common in the UK, where it is also called National Hunt racing. American Quarter Horse racing—races over distances of approximately a quarter-mile. Seen mostly in the United States, sanctioned by the American Quarter Horse Association . Arabian horses , Akhal-Teke , Appaloosas , American Paint Horses and other light breeds are also raced worldwide. Endurance riding , a sport in which the Arabian horse dominates at the top levels, has become very popular in the United States and in Europe. The Federation Equestre International (FEI) governs international races, and the American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) organizes the sport in North America. Endurance races take place over a given, measured distance and the horses have an even start. Races begin at 20 miles (32 km) and peak at 100 miles (160 km). especially the Tevis Cup . Ride and Tie (in North America, organized by Ride and Tie Association). Ride and Tie involves three equal partners: two humans and one horse. The humans alternately run and ride. In harness: Standardbred horses race in harness with a sulky or racing bike. The United States Trotting Association organizes harness racing in the United States (the horses may trot or pace). Harness racing is also found throughout Europe, New Zealand and Australia. [ edit ] Olympic disciplines Main article: Equestrian at the Summer Olympics Equestrian events were first included in the modern Olympic Games in 1900. By 1912, all three Olympic disciplines still seen today were part of the games. The following forms of competition are recognized worldwide and are a part of the equestrian events at the Olympics: Dressage ("training" in French ) involves the progressive training of the horse to a high level of impulsion , collection , and obedience. Competitive dressage has the goal of showing the horse carrying out, on request, the natural movements that it performs without thinking while running loose. One dressage master has defined it as "returning the freedom of the horse while carrying the rider." Show jumping comprises a timed event judged on the ability of the horse and rider to jump over a series of obstacles, in a given order and with the fewest refusals or knockdowns of portions of the obstacles. Eventing , also called combined training, horse trials, the three-day event, the Military, or the complete test, puts together the obedience of dressage with the athletic ability of show jumping, the fitness demands the cross-country jumping phase. In the last-named, the horses jump over fixed obstacles, such as logs, stone walls, banks , ditches , and water , trying to finish the course under the "optimum time." There was also the 'Steeple Chase' Phase, which is now excluded from most major competitions to bring them in line with the Olympic standard. There is also one equestrian discipline in the Paralympics : Para-Dressage is conducted under the same rules as conventional Dressage, but with riders divided into different classes based on the severity of their disabilities. The additional non-Olympic events sanctioned by the FEI as international disciplines are: combined driving ; endurance ; horseball ; reining ; tent pegging ; and vaulting . These events are recognized internationally and are part of the FEI World Equestrian Games every four years, and hold their own individual World Championships in other years. [ edit ] Haute École Main article: Classical dressage The haute école ( F. "high school"), an advanced component of Classical dressage , is a highly refined set of skills seldom used in competition but often seen in demonstration performances. Leading haute ecole demonstration teams include: The Cadre Noir in Saumur , France . The Spanish Riding School in Vienna , Austria . The Escola Portuguesa de Arte Equestre in Queluz, Portugal . Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art in Jerez de la Frontera , Spain . [ edit ] Horse shows Main article: Horse show Horse shows are held throughout the world with a tremendous variety of possible events, equipment, attire and judging standards used. However, most forms of horse show competition can be broken into the following broad categories: Equitation , sometimes called seat and hands or horsemanship , refers to events where the rider is judged on form, style and ability. Pleasure, flat, or under saddle classes feature horses who are ridden on the flat (not jumped) and judged on manners, performance, movement, style and quality. Halter, in-hand breeding, or conformation classes, where the horse is led by a handler on the ground and judged on conformation and suitability as a breeding animal. Harness classes, where the horse is driven rather than ridden, but still judged on manners, performance and quality. Jumping or Over Fences refers broadly to both show jumping and show hunter , where horses and riders must jump obstacles. [ edit ] "English" riding Main article: English riding See also: Hunt seat , Show hack , Show hunter , Show jumping , Dressage , Riding Horse , and Saddle seat In addition to the classical Olympic events, the following forms of competition are seen. In North America they are referred to as " English riding " in contrast with western-style riding; elsewhere in the world, if a distinction is necessary, they are usually described as "classic riding": Hunt seat or Hunter classes judge the movement and the form of horses suitable for work over fences. A typical show hunter division would include classes over fences as well as "Hunter under Saddle" or "flat" classes (sometimes called "hack" classes), in which the horse is judged on its performance, manners and movement without having to jump. Hunters have a long, flat-kneed trot, sometimes called "daisy cutter" movement, a phrase suggesting a good hunter could slice daisies in a field when it reaches its stride out. The over fences classes in show hunter competition are judged on the form of the horse, its manners and the smoothness of the course. A horse with good jumping form snaps its knees up and jumps with a good bascule . It should also be able to canter or gallop with control while having a stride long enough to make a proper number of strides over a given distance between fences. Eventing , show jumping , and dressage , described under "Olympic disciplines," above are all "English" riding disciplines that in North America sometimes are loosely classified within the "hunt seat" category. Saddle seat , is a primarily American discipline, though has recently become somewhat popular in South Africa , was created to show to best advantage the animated movement of high-stepping and gaited breeds such as the American Saddlebred and the Tennessee Walker . Some Arabians and Morgans are also shown saddle seat in the United States. There are usually three basic divisions. Park divisions are for the horses with the highest action. Pleasure divisions still emphasis animated action, but to a lesser degree, with manners ranking over animation. Plantation or Country divisions have the least amount of animation (in some breeds, the horses are flat-shod) and the greatest emphasis on manners. Show hack is a competition seen primarily in the United Kingdom , Australia , and other nations influenced by British traditions, featuring horses of elegant appearance, with excellent way of going and self-carriage. A related event is Riding Horse . [ edit ] "Western" riding Main article: Western riding See also: Reining , Western pleasure , Rodeo , and Cutting (sport) Western riding evolved from the cattle-working and warfare traditions brought to the Americas by the Spanish Conquistadors , and both equipment and riding style evolved to meet the working needs of the cowboy on ranches in the American West . Though the differences between English and Western riding appear dramatic, there are more similarities than most people think. Both styles require riders to have a solid seat, with the hips and shoulders balanced over the feet, with hands independent of the seat so as to avoid disturbing the balance of the horse and interfering with its performance. The most noticeable feature of western style riding is in the saddle, which has a substantial tree that provides greater support to horse and rider when working long hours in the saddle. The western saddle features a prominent pommel topped by a horn (a knob used for dallying a lariat after roping an animal), a deep seat and a high cantle. The stirrups are wider and the saddle has rings and ties that allow objects to be attached to the saddle. Western horses are asked to perform with a loose rein, controlled by one hand. The standard western bridle lacks a noseband and usually consists of a single set of reins attached to a curb bit that has somewhat longer and looser shanks than the curb of an English Weymouth bridle or a pelham bit . Two styles of Western reins developed: The long split reins of the Texas tradition, which are completely separated, or the closed-end " Romal " reins of the California tradition, which have a long single attachment on the ends that can be used as a quirt . Modern rodeo competitors in timed events sometimes use a closed rein without a romal . Western riders wear a long-sleeved shirt, denim jeans, boots, and a wide-brimmed cowboy hat . Cowboy boots , which have pointed toes and higher heels than a traditional riding boot, are designed to prevent the rider's foot from slipping through the stirrup during a fall, preventing the rider from being dragged—most western saddles have no safety bars for the leathers or automatic stirrup release mechanism. A rider may wear protective leather leggings called chaps . Clean, well-fitting work clothing is the usual outfit seen in rodeo , cutting and reining competitions, especially for men, though sometimes both men and women wear brighter colors or finer fabrics for competition than for work. Show events such as Western pleasure use much flashier equipment, unlike the English traditions where clothing and tack is quiet and unobtrusive. Saddles, bits and bridles are ornamented with substantial amounts of silver. The rider may add a jacket or vest, and women's clothing in particular features vivid colors and even, depending on current fads, rhinestones or sequins. [ 5 ] Western horses are asked to have a brisk, ground-covering walk, but a slow, relaxed jog trot that allows the rider to sit the saddle and not post. The Western version of the canter is called a lope and while collected and balanced, is expected to be slow and relaxed. Working western horses seldom use a sustained hand gallop, but must be able to accelerate quickly to high speed when chasing cattle or competing in rodeo speed events, must be able to stop quickly from a dead run and "turn on a dime." [ edit ] Rodeo Main article: Rodeo Rodeo events include the following forms of competition: [ edit ] Timed events Barrel racing and pole bending - the timed speed and agility events seen in rodeo as well as gymkhana or O-Mok-See competition. Both men and women compete in speed events at gymkhanas or O-Mok-Sees; however, at most professional, sanctioned rodeos, barrel racing is an exclusively women's sport. In a barrel race, horse and rider gallop around a cloverleaf pattern of barrels, making agile turns without knocking the barrels over. In pole bending, horse and rider run the length of a line of six upright poles, turn sharply and weave through the poles, turn again and weave back, then return to the start. Steer wrestling - Also known as "Bulldogging," this is a rodeo event where the rider jumps off his horse onto a steer and 'wrestles' it to the ground by grabbing it by the horns. This is probably the single most physically dangerous event in rodeo for the cowboy, who runs a high risk of jumping off a running horse head first and missing the steer, or of having the thrown steer land on top of him, sometimes horns first. Goat tying - usually an event for women or pre-teen girls and boys, a goat is staked out while a mounted rider runs to the goat, dismounts, grabs the goat, throws it to the ground and ties it in the same manner as a calf. This event was designed to teach smaller or younger riders the basics of calf roping without the more complex need to also lasso the animal. [ edit ] Roping Roping includes a number of timed events that are based on the real-life tasks of a working cowboy, who often had to capture calves and adult cattle for branding , medical treatment and other purposes. A lasso or lariat is thrown over the head of a calf or the horns of adult cattle, and the animal is secured in a fashion dictated by its size and age. Calf roping , also called "tie-down roping," is an event where a calf is roped around the neck by a lariat , the horse stops and sets back on the rope while the cowboy dismounts, runs to the calf, throws it to the ground and ties three feet together. (If the horse throws the calf, the cowboy must lose time waiting for the calf to get back to its feet so that the cowboy can do the work. The job of the horse is to hold the calf steady on the rope) This activity is still practiced on modern working ranches for branding , medical treatment, and so on. Team roping , also called "heading and heeling," is the only rodeo event where men and women riders may compete together. Two people capture and restrain a full-grown steer. One horse and rider, the "header," lassos a running steer's horns, while the other horse and rider, the "heeler," lassos the steer's two hind legs. Once the animal is captured, the riders face each other and lightly pull the steer between them, so that it loses its balance, thus in the real world allowing restraint for treatment. Breakaway roping - an easier form of calf roping where a very short lariat is used, tied lightly to the saddle horn with string and a flag. When the calf is roped, the horse stops, allowing the calf to run on, flagging the end of time when the string and flag breaks from the saddle. In the United States, this event is primarily for women of all ages and boys under 12, while in some nations where traditional calf roping is frowned upon, riders of both genders compete. [ edit ] "Rough Stock" competition In spite of popular myth, most modern "broncs" are not in fact wild horses, but are more commonly spoiled riding horses or horses bred specifically as bucking stock. Bronc riding - there are two divisions in rodeo, bareback bronc riding, where the rider is only allowed to hang onto a bucking horse with a surcingle , and saddle bronc riding, where the rider is allowed a specialized western saddle without a horn (for safety) and may hold onto a heavy lead rope attached to a halter on the horse. Bull Riding - though technically not an equestrian event, as the cowboys ride full-grown bulls instead of horses, skills similar to bareback bronc riding are required. [ edit ] Harness A Welsh pony in fine harness competition Main article: Driving (horse) Horses, mules and donkeys are driven in harness in many different ways. For working purposes, they can pull a plow or other farm equipment designed to be pulled by animals. In many parts of the world they still pull wagons for basic hauling and transportation. They may draw carriages at ceremonies, in parades or for tourist rides. As noted in "horse racing" above , horses can race in harness, pulling a very lightweight cart known as a sulky . At the other end of the spectrum, some draft horses compete in horse pulling competitions, where single or teams of horses and their drivers vie to determine who can pull the most weight for a short distance. In horse show competition, the following general categories of competition are seen: Combined driving , an internationally-recognized competition where horses perform an arena-based "dressage" class where precision and control are emphasized, a cross-country "marathon" section that emphasizes fitness and endurance, and a "stadium" or "cones" obstacle course. Draft horse showing : Most draft horse performance competition is done in harness. Pleasure driving : Horses and ponies are usually hitched to a light cart shown at a walk and two speeds of trot, with an emphasis on manners. Fine harness : Also called "Formal driving," Horses are hitched to a light four-wheeled cart and shown in a manner that emphasizes flashy action and dramatic performance. Roadster : A horse show competition where exhibitors wear racing silks and ride in a sulky in a style akin to harness racing , only without actually racing, but rather focusing on manners and performance. Carriage driving, using somewhat larger two or four wheeled carriages, often restored antiques , judged on the turnout/neatness or suitability of horse and carriage. [ edit ] Other equestrian activities Girls and their horses preparing for a polo game There are many other forms of equestrian activity and sports seen worldwide. There are both competitive events and pleasure riding disciplines available. [ edit ] Arena sports Arena polo and Cowboy polo Pato (Argentina's national sport) Charreada , the highest form of Mexican horsemanship based on a mixture of Spanish and Native traditions. Equestrian vaulting : In vaulting, a surcingle with two hoops at the top is attached around a horse's barrel . The horse also wears a bridle with side reins . The vaulter is longed on the horse, and performs gymnastic movements while the horse walks, trots, and canters. Gymkhana , also known as O-Mok-See in the western United States. Reining [ edit ] Horse sports that use cattle Australian rodeo Bullfighting ( rejoneo ) Campdrafting , a type of cattle-working competition popular in Australia Chilean rodeo Cutting Team penning [ edit ] Defined area sports Buzkashi , a sport originating on the steppes of central Asia , now the national sport of Afghanistan and Kyrgyzstan . Horseball Jousting and Skill at Arms , events involving use of lances, swords and completion of obstacles. There are stand-alone competitions and also are often seen at historical reenactments , Renaissance Fairs and Society for Creative Anachronism events. Mounted Games , a sport where games are played in a relay-style with two to five members per team at very high speed Polo , a team game played on horses, involves riders using a long-handled mallet to drive a ball on the ground into the opposing team's goal while the opposing team defends their goal Polocrosse Tent pegging Mounted archery [ edit ] Cross-country sports Competitive Mounted Orienteering‎ , a form of orienteering on horses (but unrelated to orienteering ) - consists of three stages: following a precise route marked on a map, negotiation of obstacles, and control of paces. Le Trec , which comprises three phases - trail riding, with jumping and correct basic flatwork. Le Trec, which is very popular in Europe, tests the partnership's ability to cope with an all-day ride across varied terrain, route finding, negotiating natural obstacles and hazards, while considering the welfare of the horse, respecting the countryside and enjoying all it has to offer. Competitive trail riding , a pace race held across terrain similar to endurance riding , but shorter in length (25 - 35 miles (56 km), depending on class). Being a form of pace race , the objective is not to finish in the least time. Instead, as in other forms of judged trail riding , each competitor is graded on everything including physical condition, campsite, and horse management. Horsemanship also is considered, including how the rider handles the trail and how horse is handled and presented to the judge and vet throughout the ride. The horse is graded on performance, manners, etc. "Pulse and respiration" stops check the horse's recovery ability. The judges also set up obstacles along the trail and the horse and rider are graded on how well they perform as a team. The whole point is the partnership between the horse and rider. Cross Country Jumping , a jumping course that contains logs, and natural obstacles mostly. The common clothes worn are usually brighter colors and less conservative. Endurance riding , a competition usually of 50 to 100 miles (160 km) or more, over mountainous or other natural terrain, with scheduled stops to take the horses' vital signs, check soundness, and verify that the horse is fit to continue. The first horse to finish and be confirmed by the veterinarian as fit to continue is the winner. Additional awards are usually given to the best-conditioned horses who finish in the top 10. Fox hunting Hacking, or pleasure riding . Hunter Pacing is a sport where a horse and rider team travel a trail at speeds based the ideal conditions for the horse, with competitors seeking to ride closest to that perfect time. Hunter paces are usually held in a series. Hunter paces are usually a few miles long and covered mostly at a canter or gallop. The horsemanship and management skills of the rider are also considered in the scoring, and periodic stops are required for veterinarians to check the vital signs and overall soundness of the horses. Ride and Tie is a form of endurance riding in which teams of 3 (two humans and one horse) alternate running and riding. Steeplechase Trail Riding , pleasure riding any breed horse, any style across the land. [ edit ] Health issues Handling, riding, and driving horses has a number of health benefits and risks. Please help improve this article by expanding it. Further information might be found on the talk page . (January 2009) Riding has some inherent risks, as when mounted, the rider's head may be up to 4 m (13 ft) from the ground, and the horse may travel at a speed of up to 65 km/h (40 mph). [ 6 ] The injuries observed range from very minor injuries to fatalities. A recent study in Germany reported that the relative risk of injury from riding a horse, compared to riding a bicycle, was 9 times higher for adolescents and 5.6 times higher for younger children , but that riding a horse was less risky than riding a moped . [ 7 ] In Victoria, Australia , a search of state records found that equestrian sports had the third highest incidence of serious injury, after motor sports and power boating . [ 8 ] In Greece , an analysis of a national registry estimated the incidence of equestrian injury to be 21 per 100,000 person-years for farming and equestrian sports combined, and 160 times higher for horse racing personnel. Other findings were that use of spurs may contribute to ankle fractures and dislocations, and helmets likely prevent traumatic brain injuries. [ 9 ] In the United States each year an estimated 30 million people ride horses, resulting in 50,000 emergency room visits (1 visit per 600 riders per year). [ 10 ] A survey of 679 equestrians in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho estimated that at some time in their equestrian career one in five will be seriously injured, resulting in hospitalization, surgery, or long-term disability. [ 11 ] Among survey respondents, novice equestrians had an incidence of any injury that was three-fold over intermediates, fivefold over advanced equestrians, and nearly eightfold over professionals. Approximately 100 hours of experience are required to achieve a substantial decline in the risk of injury. The survey authors conclude that efforts to prevent equestrian injury should focus on novice equestrians. [ edit ] Mechanisms of injury The most common mechanism of injury is falling from the horse, followed by being kicked, trampled, and bit. About 3 out of 4 injuries are due to falling, broadly defined. A broad definition of falling often includes being crushed and being thrown from the horse, but when reported separately each of these mechanisms may be more common than being kicked. [ 12 ] [ 13 ] [ edit ] Types and severity of injury In Canada , a 10-year study of trauma center patients injured while riding reported that although 48% had suffered head injuries, only 9% of these riders had been wearing helmets at the time of their accident. Other injuries involved the chest (54%), abdomen (22%), and extremities (17%). [ 14 ] A German study reported that injuries in horse riding are rare compared to other sports, but when they occur they are severe. Specifically, they found that 40% of horse riding injuries were fractures, and only 15% were sprains. Furthermore the study noted that in Germany, one quarter of all sport related fatalities are caused by horse riding. [ 15 ] Most horse related injuries are a result of falling from a horse, which is the cause of 60-80% of all such reported injuries. [ 16 ] [ 17 ] Another common cause of injury is being kicked by a horse, which may cause skull fractures or severe trauma to the internal organs . Some possible injuries resulting from horse riding, with the percent indicating the amounts in relation to all injuries as reported by a New Zealand study, [ 18 ] include: Arm fracture or dislocation (31%) Head injury (21%) Leg fracture or dislocation (15%) Chest injury (??%) Among 36 members and employees of the Hong Kong Jockey Club who were seen in a trauma center during a period of 5 years, 24 fell from horses and 11 were kicked by the horse. Injuries comprised: 18 torso; 11 head, face, or neck; and 11 limb. [ 19 ] The authors of this study recommend that helmets, face shields, and body protectors be worn when riding or handling horses. In New South Wales , Australia , a study of equestrians seen at one hospital over a 6 year period found that 81% were wearing a helmet at the time of injury, and that helmet use both increased over time and was correlated with a lower rate of admission. [ 20 ] In the second half of the study period, of the equestrians seen, only 14% were admitted. In contrast, a study of child equestrians seen at a hospital emergency room in Adelaide, South Australia reported that 60% were admitted. [ 21 ] In the United States, an analysis of National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) data performed by theEquestrian Medical Safety Association studied 78,279 horse-related injuries in 2007: "The most common injuries included fractures (28.5%); contusions/abrasions (28.3%); strain/sprain (14.5%); internal injury (8.1%); lacerations (5.7%); concussions (4.6%); dislocations (1.9%); and hematomas (1.2%). Most frequent injury sites are the lower trunk (19.6%); head (15.0%); upper trunk (13.4%); shoulder (8.2%); and wrist (6.8%). Within this study patients were treated and released (86.2%), were hospitalized (8.7%), were transferred (3.6%), left without being treated (0.8%), remained for observation (0.6%), and arrived at the hospital deceased (0.1%)." [ 22 ] [ edit ] Riding astride The idea that riding a horse astride could injure a woman's sex organs is a historic bugaboo . [ citation needed ] This includes the popular idea that riding astride can damage the hymen . [ 23 ] Evidence of injury to any female sex organs is scant. In female high-level athletes, trauma to the perineum is rare and is associated with certain sports (see Pelvic floor#Clinical significance ). The type of trauma associated with equestrian sports has been termed "horse riders' perineum". [ 24 ] A case series of 4 female mountain bike riders and 2 female horse riders found both patient-reported perineal pain and evidence of sub-clinical changes in the clitoris ; [ 25 ] the relevance of these findings to horse riding is unknown. In men, sports-related injuries are among the major causes of testicular trauma. In a small controlled but unblinded study of 52 men, varicocele was significantly more common in equestrians than in non-equestrians. [ 26 ] The difference between these two groups was small, however, compared to differences reported between extreme mountain bike riders and non-riders, [ 27 ] and also between mountain bike riders and on-road bicycle riders. [ 28 ] Horse-riding injuries to the scrotum ( contusions ) and testes ( blunt trauma ) were well known to surgeons in the 19th century and early 20th century. [ 29 ] Injuries from collision with the pommel of a saddle are mentioned specifically. [ 29 ] [ edit ] Criticism of horses in sport This section contains weasel words , vague phrasing that often accompanies biased or unverifiable information . Such statements should be clarified or removed . (January 2009) See also: Horse racing  and Rodeo Most horse owners are interested in the well-being and welfare of horses. Some are allied with various animal welfare organizations that try to end genuine abuse of horses. Almost all competitive events have well-established rules and regulations to prevent abuse of animals and to encourage ethical behavior. Most high-intensity sports like show jumping, endurance riding, eventing, rodeo, and horse racing are closely monitored by veterinarians to prevent and treat injuries. On the other hand, there are genuine abuses of horses that do occur. Some people, often motivated by profit or a desire to win at all costs, may inflict pain, overwork, injure, neglect, starve, or drug horses in ways that harm the animal's physical health and mental well-being. Organized groups dedicated to protecting all animals, such as the Humane Society of the United States , and animal rights groups such as People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals , target some horse sports with claims of animal cruelty . Horse racing and rodeo are most commonly targeted both because of their visibility to the non-horse-oriented public and because these are sports where it is sometimes difficult for people who do not know much about horses to differentiate between pushing equines to perform to their peak and actual abuse. One problem is a disagreement about terms like abuse. While some individuals consider even fairly drastic discipline of horses as non-abusive, others consider abuse to be anything done against the will of the animal in question. Some people consider poor living conditions abusive, others think riding itself is abusive. There is no consensus on the issue. Further, the perspective of the individuals holding various viewpoints is sometimes quite different. For example, horse professionals claim they know better what is best for horses than people who live horseless lives, easily influenced by propaganda. On the other hand, other individuals claim that many horse professionals are biased because of motivation for personal gain. However, many people take a middle ground, primarily concerned that certain sports or training techniques may unnecessarily cause pain or injuries to horse athletes, just as they do for human athletes. Some people who advocate use of horses in equestrian activities point out that horses in the wild have a shorter average life expectancy and are injured more often and more severely than those used in sport. Most public laws and statutes carefully describe criminally abusive practices that incur legal penalties in very specific terms. Some behaviors and activities are widely condemned as abusive by people within the horse industry, even if not illegal as a matter of public law. Use of many performance-enhancing drugs is prohibited in most competitions, and organizations that sanction various events spend a great deal of money testing horses for illegal drugs. Some specific training or showing practices are so widely condemned that they have been made illegal at the national level and violations can incur criminal penalties. The most well-known is soring, a practice of applying a caustic ointment just above the hooves of a Tennessee Walking Horse to make it pick up its feet higher. However, in spite of a federal law in the United States prohibiting this practice and routine inspections of horse shows by inspectors from the United States Department of Agriculture , the practice is still widespread and difficult to eliminate. [ 30 ] Some events themselves are also considered so abusive that they are banned in many countries. Among these are horse-tripping, a sport where riders chase and rope a loose-running horse by its front legs, throwing it to the ground. [ edit ] Horse riding on coinage Horse Riding commemorative coin Horse riding events have been selected as a main motif in numerous collectors' coins. One of the recent samples is the €10 Greek Horse Riding commemorative coin , minted in 2003 to commemorate the 2004 Summer Olympics . On the composition of the obverse of this coin, the modern horseman is pictured as he jumps over an obstacle, while in the background the ancient horseman is inspired by a representation on a black-figure vase of the 5th century BC. [ edit ] See also Wikimedia Commons has media related to: Horse riding Glossary of equestrian terms Equitation science Western riding English riding Dressage Classical dressage Driving (horse) Domestication of the horse Equestrian use of roadways Horses in warfare Horse show Equestrian at the Summer Olympics List of horse accidents United States Equestrian Federation International Federation for Equestrian Sports Horse training Horse behavior Equestrian helmet Mounting block Cowboy Mounted Shooting Fletcher Street Urban Riding Club for a description of urban riding traditions [ edit ] References ^ http://www.thefreedictionary.com/equestrian ^ [1] ^ Chamberlin, J. Edward Horse: How the Horse has Shaped Civilization New York:BlueBridge 2006 ISBN 0-9742405-9-1 ^ Bennett, Deb (1998) 'Conquerors: The Roots of New World Horsemanship. Amigo Publications Inc; 1st edition. ISBN 0-9658533-0-6 , pp.151 ^ Hobby Horse clothing company, educational articles on current trends in western show clothing ^ J R Silver (2002-06). "Spinal injuries resulting from horse riding accidents" . Spinal Cord 40 (6): 264–271. doi : 10.1038/sj.sc.3101280 . PMID   12037707 . http://www.nature.com/sc/journal/v40/n6/full/3101280a.html . Retrieved 2009-01-14 .   ^ Schneiders W, Rollow A, Rammelt S, Grass R, Holch M, Serra A, Richter S, Gruner EM, Schlag B, Roesner D, Zwipp H (April 2007). "Risk-inducing activities leading to injuries in a child and adolescent population of Germany". J Trauma 62 (4): 996–1003. doi : 10.1097/01.ta.0000222584.48001.a0 . PMID   17426559 .   ^ Gabbe BJ, Finch CF, Cameron PA, Williamson OD (August 2005). "Incidence of serious injury and death during sport and recreation activities in Victoria, Australia" . Br J Sports Med 39 (8): 573–7. doi : 10.1136/bjsm.2004.015750 . PMID   16046347 .   ^ Petridou E, Kedikoglou S, Belechri M, Ntouvelis E, Dessypris N, Trichopoulos D (March 2004). "The mosaic of equestrian-related injuries in Greece" . J Trauma 56 (3): 643–7. doi : 10.1097/01.TA.0000053470.38129.F4 . PMID   15128138 . http://meta.wkhealth.com/pt/pt-core/template-journal/lwwgateway/media/landingpage.htm?issn=0022-5282&volume=56&issue=3&spage=643 .   ^ Carrillo EH, Varnagy D, Bragg SM, Levy J, Riordan K (2007). "Traumatic injuries associated with horseback riding". Scand J Surg 96 (1): 79–82. PMID   17461318 .   ^ Mayberry JC, Pearson TE, Wiger KJ, Diggs BS, Mullins RJ (March 2007). "Equestrian injury prevention efforts need more attention to novice riders". J Trauma 62 (3): 735–9. doi : 10.1097/ta.0b013e318031b5d4 . PMID   17414356 .   ^ Loder RT (August 2008). "The demographics of equestrian-related injuries in the United States: injury patterns, orthopedic specific injuries, and avenues for injury prevention" . J Trauma 65 (2): 447–60. doi : 10.1097/TA.0b013e31817dac43 . PMID   18695484 . http://meta.wkhealth.com/pt/pt-core/template-journal/lwwgateway/media/landingpage.htm?an=00005373-200808000-00029 .   ^ Clarke CN, Tsuei BJ, Butler KL (May 2008). "Equine-related injury: a retrospective analysis of outcomes over a 10-year period" . Am. J. Surg. 195 (5): 702–4. doi : 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2007.11.007 . PMID   18424291 . http://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0002-9610(07)00957-9 .   ^ Ball CG, Ball JE, Kirkpatrick AW, Mulloy RH (May 2007). "Equestrian injuries: incidence, injury patterns, and risk factors for 10 years of major traumatic injuries". Am. J. Surg. 193 (5): 636–40. doi : 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2007.01.016 . PMID   17434372 .   ^ Dittmer H (1991). "The injury pattern in horseback riding". Langenbecks Archiv fur Chirurgie. Supplement. Kongressband. Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Chirurgie. Kongress : 466–9. PMID   1793946 .   ^ "Most injuries result from falls (80%)", Horse riding during pregnancy , MS Rogers. ^ R. G. Lloyd (March 1987). "Riding and other equestrian injuries: Considerable severity" . British Journal of Sports Medicine 21 (1): 22–24. doi : 10.1136/bjsm.21.1.22 . PMID   3580722 .   ^ Northey G (September 2003). "Equestrian injuries in New Zealand, 1993-2001: knowledge and experience". N. Z. Med. J. 116 (1182): U601. PMID   14581953 .   ^ Yim VW, Yeung JH, Mak PS, Graham CA, Lai PB, Rainer TH (January 2007). "Five year analysis of Jockey Club horse-related injuries presenting to a trauma centre in Hong Kong". Injury 38 (1): 98–103. doi : 10.1016/j.injury.2006.08.026 . PMID   17049524 .   ^ Lim J, Puttaswamy V, Gizzi M, Christie L, Croker W, Crowe P (August 2003). "Pattern of equestrian injuries presenting to a Sydney teaching hospital" . ANZ J Surg 73 (8): 567–71. doi : 10.1046/j.1445-2197.2003.02707.x . PMID   12887517 . http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/resolve/openurl?genre=article&sid=nlm:pubmed&issn=1445-1433&date=2003&volume=73&issue=8&spage=567 .   ^ Craven JA (August 2008). "Paediatric and adolescent horse-related injuries: does the mechanism of injury justify a trauma response?" . Emerg Med Australasia 20 (4): 357–62. doi : 10.1111/j.1742-6723.2008.01107.x . PMID   18782209 . http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/resolve/openurl?genre=article&sid=nlm:pubmed&issn=1742-6731&date=2008&volume=20&issue=4&spage=357 .   ^ Equine Disease Quarterly. "Human Injuries Related to Horses Analyzed" reprinted by The Horse, Online edition, Article # 14466, July 05 2009. Accessed July 9, 2009 ^ Dhall A (1995). "Adolescence: myths and misconceptions". Health Millions 21 (3): 35–8. PMID   12346860 .   ^ Crepin G, Biserte J, Cosson M, Duchene F (October 2006). "[The female urogenital system and high level sports]" (in French). Bull. Acad. Natl. Med. 190 (7): 1479–91; discussion 1491–3. PMID   17450681 .   ^ "Ultrasonographic and Doppler Findings of Subclinical Clitoral Microtraumatisms in Mountain Bikers and Horseback Riders" , Cesare Battaglia, Rossella Elena Nappi et al., retrieved 2009-01-12 ^ Turgut AT, Kosar U, Kosar P, Karabulut A (July 2005). "Scrotal sonographic findings in equestrians" . J Ultrasound Med 24 (7): 911–7; quiz 919. PMID   15972705 . http://www.jultrasoundmed.org/cgi/pmidlookup?view=long&pmid=15972705 .   ^ Frauscher F, Klauser A, Stenzl A, Helweg G, Amort B, zur Nedden D (May 2001). "US findings in the scrotum of extreme mountain bikers" . Radiology 219 (2): 427–31. PMID   11323467 . http://radiology.rsnajnls.org/cgi/pmidlookup?view=long&pmid=11323467 .   ^ Mitterberger M, Pinggera GM, Neuwirt H, Colleselli D, Pelzer A, Bartsch G, Strasser H, Gradl J, Pallwein L, Frauscher F (January 2008). "Do mountain bikers have a higher risk of scrotal disorders than on-road cyclists?" . Clin J Sport Med 18 (1): 49–54. doi : 10.1097/JSM.0b013e31815c042f . PMID   18185039 . http://meta.wkhealth.com/pt/pt-core/template-journal/lwwgateway/media/landingpage.htm?an=00042752-200801000-00010 .   ^ a b William Williams Keen, John Chalmers Da Costa, ed (1908). Surgery, Its Principles and Practice . 4 . W. B. Saunders Company . http://books.google.com/?id=QnYwAAAAIAAJ .   pages 598, 615 ^ EQUUS Special Report: Why Soring Persists [ edit ] External links International Federation for Equestrian Sports FEI official homepage United States Equestrian Federation USEF Official web site Equestrian Federation of Australia Equestrian Federation of Australia web site Equestrian Federation of Ireland - EFI web site Equestrian Federation of Kazakhstan Russian - Equestrian Federation of Kazakhstan English United States Dressage Federation American Endurance Ride Conference The North American Trail Ride Conference - Competitive Trail Riding UK Endurance Horse Riding Ride and Tie Association The American Vaulting Association - Equestrian Vaulting National Cutting Horse Association v   •   d   •   e Equine Equine science and management Equine anatomy  · Equine nutrition  · Horse behavior  · Horse care  · Horse breeding  · Equine conformation  · Equine coat color  · Horse gait Equestrianism and sport Glossary of equestrian terms  · Horse tack  · Bit  · Bridle  · Saddle  · Harness  · English riding  · Western riding  · Driving  · Horse training  · Horse racing  · Equestrian at the Summer Olympics  · Horse show  · Equitation Evolution and history Domestication  · In warfare  · In the Middle Ages  · Horses in East Asian warfare  · History of the horse in South Asia  · Horses in the Napoleonic Wars  · Horses in World War I  · Horses in World War II Horse breeds , types and other Equidae Horses List of horse breeds  · Wild horse  · Feral horse  · Stock horse  · Gaited horse  · Draft horse  · Warmblood  · Sport horse Other Equus Donkey  · Zebra  · Onager Hybrids Hinny  · Mule  · Zebroid Category: Equidae v   •   d   •   e Olympic sports Summer sports Archery  • Athletics  • Badminton  • Basketball  • Boxing  • Canoeing  • Cycling  • Diving  • Equestrian  • Field hockey  • Fencing  • Football  • Gymnastics  • Handball  • Judo  • Modern pentathlon  • Rowing  • Sailing  • Shooting  • Swimming  • Synchronized swimming  • Table tennis  • Taekwondo  • Tennis  • Triathlon  • Volleyball  • Water polo  • Weightlifting  • Wrestling Winter sports Alpine skiing  • Biathlon  • Bobsleigh  • Cross-country skiing  • Curling  • Figure skating  • Freestyle skiing  • Ice hockey  • Luge  • Nordic combined  • Short track speed skating  • Skeleton  • Ski jumping  • Snowboarding  • Speed skating Former Olympic sports Baseball  • Basque pelota  • Cricket  • Croquet  • Golf  • Jeu de paume  • Lacrosse  • Polo  • Rackets  • Roque  • Rugby union  • Softball  • Tug of war  • Water motorsports See also : Paralympic sports || Cowboy polo From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation , search Cowboy polo is a variation of polo played mostly in the western United States . Like regular polo, it is played in chukkars with two teams on horses who use mallets to hit a ball through a goal. It differs from traditional polo in that five riders make up a team instead of four, western saddles and equipment are used, and the playing field is usually a simple rodeo arena or other enclosed dirt area, indoors or out. Also, instead of the small ball used in traditional polo, the players use a large red rubber medicine ball and use mallets with long fiberglass shafts and hard rubber heads. [ 1 ] Contents 1 Horses 2 History 3 Rules 4 Equipment 5 References [ edit ] Horses The horse breed most often used for cowboy polo is the American Quarter Horse , due to its agility. Unlike regular polo, where multiple horses are used within a single game, riders do not change horses between chukkars, but instead are only allowed two horses, and in some competitions are required to ride one horse throughout. [ 1 ] This ability to compete with relatively few animals has given the sport its nickname, the "average man's" sport. [ 2 ] Horses competing in cowboy polo are often older, experienced animals with steady dispositions who have come to understand the basic purpose of the game and can assist their riders. [ 2 ] [ edit ] History Cowboy polo originated in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, in 1952, where it was called Palmetto Polo . The name came from the mallet handles, which were made out of palm. It was renamed "cowboy polo" in 1959. [ 2 ] As it came west, it was connected almost entirely to the membership of sheriff's posses , groups primarily dedicated to mounted search and rescue , consisting of deputized law enforcement volunteers. While participation was once limited to men only, women were admitted to the sport in the mid-1990s. [ 1 ] It reached its peak of popularity during the 1970s, [ 1 ] with clubs from Texas to Montana, as well as clubs in Australia. [ 2 ] However, since then, cowboy polo has been in decline, with the national organization disbanding in 2005. Today, the sport is almost exclusively played in Montana . [ 1 ] Even in Montana, where there were once 30 clubs, there are now only five. [ 2 ] [ edit ] Rules Though the sport has written rules, the most commonly enforced rule is unwritten: any rider who falls off his or her horse must buy beer for the entire team. [ 1 ] Teams consist of five players, with two horseback referees and two goal spotters. Riders are limited to two horses per game, though most players use one horse throughout. The game is played in four periods of 15 minutes each, called, as in regular polo, "chukkars." There are mandatory four-minute rest periods at the end of each chukker and a nine-minute break at half time. Each team is allowed four two-minute time outs during the game. [ 3 ] Teams switch ends at each chukkar. [ 2 ] The field is divided widthwise into four 50 feet (15 m) sections or zones, and one center zone of 60 feet (18 m). Each team has one player assigned to each zone with the goal of hitting the ball toward the opponents' goal. If a player crosses into another zone, the team loses control of the ball to the other team. The goal areas are each 20 feet (6.1 m) and located at each end of the arena. [ 3 ] The arena is generally 120 feet (37 m) wide. [ 2 ] A goal made from the first zone is worth one point. Goals made from the second zone from the goal, without being touched by either player in the first zone is worth two points. An untouched goal from the center zone counts for three points. Balls knocked out of the field are returned to the spot where the ball exited the field and the opposing team takes control of the ball. [ 3 ] Unruly or disobedient horses may be asked to leave the field, as will players who endanger other players unnecessarily. Equipment failure during the game that presents a danger to a player or horse results in a safety time out called by the referee. [ 3 ] Safety is of paramount importance. There are 32 rules of play, including 11 types of personal fouls, including “reaching across an opposing player’s horse,” or “riding into and hitting an opposing player’s horse in front or back of the saddle with his/her horse’s front quarters, at greater than a 45-degree angle.” [ 2 ] [ edit ] Equipment The ball for cowboy polo is a red rubber medicine ball . The polo mallet has a maximum length of 60 inches (150 cm). It was traditionally made of cane but can be made of fiberglass. Saddles must be American western saddles or Australian stock saddles. Participants are strongly encouraged to have their horses wear polo bandages or splint boots . Use of a breast collar is optional. There are no specific rules for horse headgear, as long as the equipment is humane. Tie-downs are allowed, but officials may require the removal of any piece of equipment liable to cause discomfort to the horse. [ 3 ] For riders, hats or headgear is required. Most riders now wear some form of equestrian helmet or other protective headgear, such as a cricket helmet with a face guard. However, Western or Australian style felt hats may be worn. Extra protective clothing such as knee and shin guards, is optional, though they must not be hard or sharp edged to prevent injury to your opponent or his/her horse. Riders also must wear jeans , riding boots and a shirt in the specified club color. [ 3 ] [ edit ] References ^ a b c d e f Healy, Donna. "Hockey on Horseback". Billings Gazette, September 20, 2009. Accessed September 20, 2009 ^ a b c d e f g h Wallace, Glenda. "Cowboy Polo: Family Fun on Horseback." Distinctly Montana , Fall 2006. Accessed September 20, 2009 ^ a b c d e f Laurel Saddle Club Cowboy Polo Team. Rules, Equipment and Dress. Accessed September 20, 2009 v   •   d   •   e Interdependent team sports Sport  · Governing bodies  · Sportspeople  · National sport Basket codes Basketball ( Beach , Deaf , Water , Wheelchair , FIBA 33 )  · Korfball  · Netball ( Fastnet , Indoor )  · Slamball Football codes Association football ( Beach , Futsal , Indoor , Street , Paralympic )  · Australian football ( nine-a-side , Rec footy , Metro footy )  · Gaelic football ( Ladies' )  · Powerchair football Gridiron codes American football ( Eight-man , Flag , Indoor , Nine-man , Six-man , Sprint , Touch )  · Arena football  · Canadian football Hybrid codes Austus  · International rules football  · Samoa Rules  · Universal football  · Volata Medieval football codes Ba game  · Caid  · Calcio Fiorentino  · Camping  · Cnapan  · Cornish hurling  · Cuju  · Harpastum  · Kemari  · La soule  · Mob football  · Royal Shrovetide  · Uppies and Downies Rugby codes Beach  · Rugby league ( Masters , Mini , Mod , Nines , Sevens , Tag , Touch , Wheelchair )  · Rugby union ( American Flag , Mini , Sevens , Tag , Touch , Tens ) Handball codes Goalball  · Handball ( Beach , Czech style , Field )  · Torball Safe haven codes Baseball  · Brännboll  · British baseball  · Cricket ( Indoor , Limited Overs , Test , ODI , Twenty20 )  · Danish longball  · Kickball  · Lapta  · Oină  · Over-the-line  · Pesäpallo  · Rounders  · Softball  · Stoolball  · Town ball  · Vigoro Stick and ball codes Composite rules shinty-hurling  · Hurling ( Camogie )  · Lacrosse ( Box/Indoor , Field , Women's , Intercrosse )  · Polocrosse  · Shinty  · Hockey codes Ball hockey  · Bandy ( Rink )  · Broomball ( Moscow )  · Field hockey ( Indoor )  · Floor hockey ( Floorball )  · Ice hockey ( Power )  · Ringette  · Roller hockey ( Inline , Quad )  · Rossall Hockey  · Skater hockey  · Sledge hockey  · Street hockey  · Underwater hockey  · Underwater ice hockey  · Unicycle hockey Polo codes Canoe polo  · Cowboy polo  · Cycle polo  · Elephant polo  · Horseball  · Polo  · Segway polo  · Yak polo Ball over a net codes Biribol  · Bossaball  · Fistball  · Football tennis  · Footvolley  · Jianzi  · Footbag net  · Peteca  · Sepak takraw  · Throwball  · Volleyball ( Beach , Paralympic )  · Ball badminton Other codes Airsoft  · Basque pelota ( Frontenis , Jai alai , Xare )  · Buzkashi  · Curling  · Cycle ball  · Dodgeball  · Gateball  · Kabaddi  · Kho kho  · Lagori  · Paintball  · Pétanque  · Roller derby  · Tchoukball  · Ulama  · Ultimate  · Underwater rugby  · Water polo ( Inner tube )  · Wheelchair rugby  · Underwater football || Ridgway Stables Horse riding and Pony Riding in London We are open Tuesday to Sunday 9:30 am to 5:30 pm Home Page Introducing Ridgway Stables including details of horse and pony riding in London Adult's Horse Riding Find out more about horse riding in London for adults, including courses and prices Children's Pony Riding Click here for details of Pony riding activities including courses and prices Riding Equipment Our Equestrian shop has all the riding equipment you need, click here for details Where to find us Click for details of our location and how to find us by car and public transport Contact the stables Have you got some questions, like to send an email, then click here Wimbledon Common makes the perfect place for children to ride a pony and enjoy other riding activities. We have a wide selection of ponies carefully chosen for their kind temperament and experience in teaching children to ride a pony in the wonderful surroundings of Wimbledon Common. Your child’s first pony ride at Ridgway Stables Whether your child has never ridden a pony before or it is their first time riding at Ridgway Stables we suggest a half hour individual lesson so that we can choose a pony best suited to their riding ability and ensure them of our personal attention. Children with pony riding experience We offer one-hour private lessons for children with some pony riding experience or those wishing to come off the leading rein or progress to cantering, or just improve their technique. Saturday Club Our Saturday Club is extremely popular and runs every Saturday throughout the year from 10am – 12pm or 2pm – 4pm. Children get the chance not only to ride a pony in the company of their friends but also to learn and become involved with all aspects of caring for ponies. Booking in advance for this popular activity is essential. Hacking on Wimbledon Common Ridgway Stables offer a hacking after school or at weekends in the company of other children. Weekend Hacks Sundays at 10am, 11am, and/or 2pm, 3pm. Midweek Hacks 4:15pm (daylight permitting) Pony riding in the school holidays Throughout the year we ride out on Wimbledon Common and organise a range of pony riding activities for children during the school holidays and half term. See the news panel opposite for details of the latest riding activities. Suitable clothes for riding At Ridgway Stables we ride out in all weathers, so please ensure children wear appropriate warm or waterproof clothing for such riding conditions. Regrettably, inclement conditions will not be accepted as a reason for cancellation. All riders must wear suitable foot wear – boots or shoes with a heel, please – not trainers. Horse riding outdoor wear and equipment A selection of horse riding outdoor wear can be purchased from our shop – The Gift Horse, which is conveniently located at the stables. For details of riding equipment click here… Own a pony The Own a Pony days are the next best thing to owning your own pony! These days are held throughout the school holidays and at half term. Children not only ride but are encouraged to groom and care for their pony for the day. The day starts at 10am and ends at 4pm, bring packed lunch. Pony Riding Courses and Prices Our prices offer real value for money especially when you book a course. And don’t forget you only pay as you ride, there are no membership or joining fees. Weekends Hacking per hour £35 Course of six £189 SAVE £21 Private Lesson – Half hour £25 Course of six £135 SAVE £15 Private Lesson – One hour £50 Course of six £270 SAVE £30 Saturday Club £38 Course of six £205 SAVE £23 Midweek Hacking per hour £30 Course of six £162 SAVE £18 Private Lesson – Half hour £25 Course of six £135 SAVE £15 Private Lesson – One hour £42 Course of six £227 SAVE £25 Own a Pony Day £65 Book your pony riding lesson now! Call the stables on 020 8946 7400 We are open Tuesday to Sunday 9:30 – 5:30 AGE RESTRICTION In the interests of safety, the youngest riders allowed are 4 years old. Horse Riding Christmas Gift Christmas gift vouchers make the ideal gift for someone who loves to ride a pony and other pony riding activities. You can choose any amount to spend from as as little as £25.00. The Vouchers can be redeemed for a variety of pony riding activities and equipment including... Pony Riding Lessons Saturday Club Own a Pony Day Hacking on Wimbledon Common Pony riding courses and activities Christmas Pony Riding activities Riding Equipment from the Ridgway Stables shop Vouchers are valid for six months from the date of purchase. Please call the stables to order, all major cards accepted. Please call the stables on 0208 946 7400 to buy your voucher. Important Safety Information A current BSI approved hat must be worn at all times when riding (a new standard came in force from 01 January 1988 - Code No. EN1384 1997 PAS:015) These can be either bought from our shop or hired for £1 from the stables. We take every care to ensure the safety of our clients and to provide them with suitable and safe horses and ponies. Your choice to ride is voluntary. Foot wear is a very important safety factor and we advise you ride in a shoe or boot with a heel – not trainers. All major cards accepted Ridgway Stables accepts cheques, Credit and Debit Cards and payment by cash. All courses must be used within 6 months of purchase and are non-refundable Last minute bookings It is sometimes difficult to secure weekend bookings at short notice, however in the event of a cancellation some last minute bookings may be available, please call us on a Friday afternoon to check availability. Pre-payments Pre-payment is required at time of booking and is non-refundable. Cancellation Notice Please note, for whatever reason 48 hours notice is required when canceling or rescheduling rides, otherwise the full fee is payable. Regrettably there is no exception for illness. Ridgway Stables 93 Ridgway, Wimbledon Village, London SW19 4SU All content © Copyright 2010 Ridgway Stables. || The resource cannot be displayed The page you are looking for cannot be opened by your browser because it has a file name extension that your browser does not accept. 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