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I am not really interested in competing—I just like to ride for fun. May I still join the equestrian club? Yes! We welcome riders in all disciplines, at all levels of experience, whether interested in competing or not. The club provides all these riders an organization where they can share their common interests.
Are there dues to belong to the equestrian club? Yes. Lesson fees are $400 per semester for ten lessons. (Additional lessons may be arranged directly with The Pines.) In addition, each team member pays IHSA dues (currently $30).
Do I need to have my own horse to participate in the club or team? No. Whether you’re interested in riding for recreation or competition, the equestrian club will help you find instruction at a barn close to campus, in whatever discipline interests you.
Is the equestrian team only for experienced riders? No. We welcome and encourage riders of all levels and experience to become part of the team. Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) competitions are open to riders from beginner (walk/trot) through experienced (open division). Visit the Equestrian Team information page for more details.
Do I need to have my own horse to compete in equestrian team shows? No. The equestrian team competes in the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA), and the rules of IHSA competition require that all horses be provided by the host college; competitors select their horses by drawing lots.
I want to bring my horse. Are there boarding facilities available near the campus? Yes. There are several barns within less than five miles of the campus that offer boarding and lessons, and the equestrian club can help you find an appropriate boarding facility convenient to the R-MC campus if you are interested in bringing your own horse. We can also assist you in finding instruction in just about any equine discipline that interests you. We are lucky at R-MC to be located in the heart of horse country; many of the nation’s top-ranked riders live in our area, and one of our most famous former “neighbors” here at R-MC was the Triple Crown winner Secretariat.
I enjoy trail riding. Are there any trails near the R-MC campus? The public, 247-acre Washington Lacy Park, located less than five miles from campus, offers 6 miles of looped trails, with an additional 7 miles of trails under construction.
Does the club meet at a barn? No. All equestrian club meetings are held right here on the R-MC campus in Thomas Branch Hall. The club meets Wednesday evenings at 8:30 PM when school is in session.