Stories

I will always remember my first time at summer riding camp. I lived in the city and had never been near a horse before. Eight years old, excited and nervous! After a bus ride filled with songs and games, we arrived at a sprawling horse farm with friendly horses and kids of all ages.

Riding camp gave me a chance to learn the basics of riding a horse in a safe environment and I quickly became confident and able to ride on my own. Horsemanship helped me understand bridles and saddles and how to groom and care for a horse. Camp also included arts and crafts in the old barn, and a swim break helped cool us off during hot summer days. Even lunch was busy, watching others ride and playing tons of different games.

As I got older, I became an advanced rider, rode twice a day, and even got to stay overnight in the barn! My group became inseparable. I loved riding camp so much I volunteered for weeks at a time and became a counsellor-in-training (CIT). I took up lessons during the year and discovered a real love for riding. I also joined the Whitchurch Pony Club and began competing at many horse shows and events.

Last summer, I was privileged to become a camp counsellor and pass on the lessons and fun I had as a young camper. I hope to be a counsellor for many more years to come.

Happy trails for your child this summer – at Whitchurch Riding Camp.