FAQ

Q: How big is the club?
A: Although it varies from semester to semester, the club currently has about 40 members and is coed.

Q: What experience do members need?
A: None! We offer beginner through advanced group lessons each week.

Q: Do you offer jumping, dressage, or western?
A: We ride English, focusing on hunt seat equitation. Qualified riders are also provided jumping lessons. We do not train for western or dressage riding.

Q: Do I need to buy special clothes to ride in?
A: Riders need to ride in boots that cover their ankle, have about a 1/2" heel, and a hard sole. Riders may ride in jeans, but tighter pants without seams on the inside make riding much more comfortable and lower the risk of getting rubs, etc. An ASTM/SEI approved riding helmet is required, but Way Farm Stables has some helmets available for use in lessons, though it is universally accepted that riders will buy this vital equipment shortly after committing to the club. As long as it is safe, tasteful, and neat it is okay to ride in.

Q: When/How often are lessons?
A: Each member rides in at least one group lesson per week for an hour, but more lessons are possible. Lesson times and days change each semester, but we usually ride at night during the week, and when possible schedule daytime lessons, too. This semester we will likely be riding Mondays through Saturdays.

Q: Is transportation provided?
A: Yes. Members with cars volunteer to drive to lessons each week and are reimbursed for gas money. We also have a student association van available to borrow from the university.

Q: Where does the club ride? Is there an indoor ring?
A: We ride at Way Farm which is about 25 minutes from campus. The farm has both indoor and outdoor rings, so we can ride all winter long, driving conditions permitting.

Q: What are the horses like? Will I ride the same one every week?
A: The club uses Way Farm Stable's lesson horses, which come in all sizes and skill levels. We do occasionally use some of the privately owned horses. It is the goal of the club to instruct riders how to ride a variety of horses, so it is unlikely you will remain with one horse for long, though you will be assigned one appropriate to your level and ability.

Q: What is the cost of joining the club/riding?
A: $30 a lesson

Q: Does the club compete? Is the club an IHSA member? Do I have to show?
A: We compete at St.Lawrence, Cazenovia and Lehmans.  We don't host a show.

Q: How much does it cost to compete in the IHSA?
A: Riders may compete in ONE flat and ONE jumping class per day. Each class is $30, so a one day show costs $30-$60 to enter and a two day show can cost up to $50-$100 if you choose to show both days. Riders are also responsible for the trainer's fee and chipping in for gas money, plus money for food. If the team stays overnight we share our trainer's room & board costs, too. Lastly, there is a one time IHSA member fee of $20 and the show team splits the new $140 team membership fee.

Q: Do you show in any non-IHSA shows?
A: There are other shows available. Talk to Peg or your trainer.

Q: Do I need to buy a show outfit to show?
A: Show clothes can be expensive, so members who already have show clothes may be able to lend you something. Talk to Katherine, our show team captain, about it if you decide to show. Between the sales offered at local tack shops and current teammates everyone should be able to piece together a habit without breaking the bank.

Q: Can I bring my own horse?
A: Boarding at Way Farm is a private treaty between you and the facility, and is not an area the University of Rochester or the URET is a part of. For more information, contact Way Farm

Q: So how do I join?
A: The Equestrian club holds one interest meeting in the beginning of each semester. Look out for our banner in Wilson Commons, flyers, or announcements on the website!

If you still have questions, feel free to email our President: Risa (rbernst3@mail.rochester.edu).