Level 1 focuses on safety around horses while grooming, leading & tacking up, and developing a balanced & correct equitation position in the saddle at the walk, trot, halt & 2-point over poles.
Level 2 focuses on distinguishing horses via their color, face & leg markings, and identifying parts of the saddle & bridle. Level 2 riders continue to develop a balanced & correct equitation position in the saddle at the walk, trot, canter & 2-point over poles.
Level 3 focuses on leg & hoof anatomy identification and care as well as jumping terminology including the phases of a jump, the difference between hunter & equitation courses, and jump position faults. Additionally, Level 3 focuses on developing a balanced & correct equitation position on the flat & over x-rail courses.
Level 4 focuses on basic first aid including taking vital signs, assessing the horse’s body condition score, and bits & bitting. Additionally, Level 4 focuses on fine tuning a balanced & correct equitation position on the flat & over 2’-2’3” courses.
Level 5 focuses on conformation & common conformation faults, diagnosing lameness & the lameness scale, as well as dental care & distinguishing a horse’s age by its teeth. Additionally, Level 5 focuses on elegant & effective riding with correct equitation angles, a secure lower leg, an independent seat & soft, following hands on the flat & over 2’6”-2’9” equitation & hunter derby courses.
Level 6 focuses on skeletal & muscular systems, the horse senses & different forms of alternative therapies to keep our equine partners feeling their best. Level 6 riders can perform the “Big Eq” tests and are polished & elegant equitation riders on the flat and over 3’+ courses.
***Mahogany Bay Farm's Equitation Rider Standards are currently in the process of being trademarked & copyrighted- we will post them as soon as we can***