Rookie Riders is specifically designed to teach the fundamental skills necessary to safely get on a horse BEFORE being introduced to a horse for the first time!
Leading edge curriculum designed collaboratively with experts in both physical literacy and equestrian development includes
Using a progression from ground-based, to mounted on the barrel, to mounted on a horse, kids gain a combination of skills and experience through activities and games as an introduction to riding.
Rookie Riders prepares riders for their first mounted lessons before ever stepping foot in a barn. It is designed to start riders on their way to completing Equestrian Canada’s Learn to Ride – English or Western Level 1.
Horsemanship
Fundamental Movement Skills
Fundamental Sport Skills
A foundation towards Equestrian Canada’s Learn To Ride programs.
“I am beyond thrilled about the Rookie Riders program. This is an excellent program that will help make the sport accessible to a new generation.” – Ian Millar
Rookie Riders can be customized to meet the needs of specific groups. Instructors and facilities may tailor the program to meet needs of the students or facility but are encouraged to follow the general skill progression presented in sample lesson plans.
Find out how Rookie Riders fits into your program:
Equestrian Facilities
Rookie Riders was created to increase participation in Equestrian sport and build a strong foundation for long-term athlete development. Activities are designed to be flexible to suit your space and your program, with ready-to-deliver progressive lesson plans to take students from ground-based activities to learning skills on the barrel, and finally on a horse! Rookie Riders is an excellent addition to your ongoing lesson programs or can be delivered as a camp.
Schools and Recreation Centers
Developed in consultation with physical education experts, Rookie Riders supports the development of physical literacy and fundamental movement skills in kids. Enjoy pre-built lesson plans with safe, inclusive activities for kids ages 6-12. Enjoy pre-built lesson plans or build your own using the library of activities and games. Rookie Riders promotes inclusion and accessibility and offers a welcoming start for kids who are interested in equestrian sport.
Community Events
Rookie Riders can be delivered as a fun drop-in activity for fairs, horse shows, festivals, markets, and other community events. Offer participants a Ticket to Ride* and support Equestrian sport in your community.
Become an Instructor
Find a Program
Reach out to your Provincial/Territorial Sport Organizations to find a Rookie Riders program near you!
To learn more about taking the training, hosting the Rookie Riders in your facility or to find a program near you, please contact your Provincial/Territorial Equestrian Organization or submit an information request using the following form:
Rookie Riders Information Request
Rookie Riders is an evolution of the First Gait program, first developed as an introductory program for Vaulting. It has been developed by Ontario Equestrian in partnership with Equestrian Canada and member provincial/territorial sport organizations as part of the Canadian Equestrian Development Project to delivered by riding facilities across Canada.