Equestrian

List of 5 items.

• Equestrian Program

  Our equestrian program boasts some of the most stunning riding terrain in the nation, and perhaps the world. Surrounded by thousands of acres of National Forest, VVS’s backyard has limitless potential for learning and adventure.

  
  

  VVS offers one of the most diverse recreational riding programs at the high school level.  At the heart of our equestrian program is the belief that horses are amazing teachers and master communicators, and that riders learn invaluable skills from them.Our goals are to create a strong connection between horse and rider, and to expose our students to a variety of riding disciplines, events and terrain. Ours is a “liberal arts” rather than a specialty or trade school type of program with an emphasis on natural horsemanship.

  
  

  Riders learn daily horse care, stable management, are responsible for morning and evening feeding, and participate in all facets of the barn operation.

• English, Western and Bareback

  English, Western, and bareback riding (both in the arena and on the trail) are offered daily and at all levels from novice to experienced competitors. Riders have opportunities for jumping - both in the arena and cross-country, practicing for gymkhana events, swimming with the horses across Oak Creek, and galloping endless miles of stunning trails. Riders are encouraged to put themselves in a wide range of situations with their horses in order to establish greater levels of understanding, connection and trust.

• Competitive Riding

  VVS riders train for several competitive events throughout the year. Our riders compete regularly on the Central Verde Gymkhana Association circuit and in English schooling shows in Scottsdale.

• Weekend Riding

  Weekend riding opportunities range from individual private lessons, to 2-3 hour trail rides, and all day picnic rides. Some weekend riding opportunities are opened up to all VVS students, not just those in the afternoon riding program.

• Special Rides

  A couple times a year we offer full-moon “Moonlight” rides, when the weather is warm and the moon is bright. Once a year we go on a weekend horse camping trip in Flagstaff, where riders get to see new terrain and learn about travel considerations with horses. We offer day trips to Seligman where those who have learned to jump can school a large cross country course, open and fun for both seasoned jumpers and those who have recently started. Occasionally we will also offer groundwork and “join-up” clinics, and introductions to the Masterson Method, which is a bodywork technique that helps horses release tension. During Project Period, we switch offerings from introductory “Horse Communication” projects for new riders, to barn improvement projects like building a trail versatility course.