MSU offers youth horseback riding lessons

MSU is offering horseback riding lessons for children ages 6 to 18 beginning Wednesday, Jan. 23.

The class is for beginning riders with little to no experience. There will be weekly sessions on Jan. 23 and 30 and Feb. 6, 13, 20 and 27. Participants will learn grooming, catching and leading, tacking up and ground safety. Riding will include mounting and dismounting, walk, sitting trot, posting trot, diagonals, two-point position, introduction of cantering when appropriate and basic pattern work.  

“We believe everyone who rides should also be an overall good horseman or horsewoman, so we promote learning about all aspects of horsemanship,” said Devin Lintzenich, MSU equestrian team coach and instructor for the lessons. “Some people find it very relaxing, while for others it's good exercise for a lot of muscles most people don't regularly use. Plus, it's fun.”  

Those interested in taking the riding lessons do not need to own their own horse. MSU has a stable of more than 40 horses of various breeds and experience levels, and participants will be matched to the horse that best suits their needs and interests.  
 
A second session of riding lessons, designed for riders with beginner to intermediate experience, will begin Wednesday, March 13.  

The cost of the lessons is $150 for all six sessions, and space is limited. For more information or to apply, visit www.moreheadstate.edu/ridinglessons, call Lintzenich at 606-783-2662 or 317-714-5083 or email dslintzenich@moreheadstate.edu.