%20copy%20small%20head.png)
FAQ
Before sending us a message please read through our FAQ page to see if we have already answered your question(s). If you can't find your answer here see our contact box below to ask.
For athletes:
Do I need to own or lease a horse to participate?
Nope, for our IHSA shows we ride entirely on donated horses. This is called catch riding. Our lessons are on our coaches' horses as well as horses owned by other trainers during clinics. At shows, we ride volunteer horses owned by the local equestrian community.
Can I still join with limited riding experience?
Yes! Many of our riders have limited riding experience. Classes at our shows range from beginner (walk-trot) to advanced. Although show team positions are limited, lessons are available to anyone on the team wanting to learn.
What disciplines and classes does OSU compete in?
Our team is both a western and an english team. We show in hunter equitation on the flat, hunter equitation over fences, western horsemanship, ranch riding, and reining.
What is the time commitment for the team?
If you are placed on the show team you will be required to take one lesson per week in order to show (may vary if placed in over fences, ranch, or reining). For general team members we ask that you attend our hosted show in November and come to meetings which occur around once per month. We also host fundraisers and team bonding throughout fall and winter terms. These won't be required but are encouraged and run separate from our monthly meetings.
For horse owners:
What if my horse and tack aren't "show ready" i.e. fuzzy, unclipped, or training tack?
All we ask for from our donated horses is that they are safe and have show experience. Any tack that is discipline appropriate is accepted although show prepped is preferred. Same goes for your equine. They do not need to be clipped or show prepped however clean and prepped is preferred.
What type of horses do you expect?
As long as your horse is safe, healthy, and show safe we would gladly have them join our show. If ever we have more horses than needed we may choose based on factors such as training and prep but otherwise we accept any donations we agree are safe.
What is expected of my horse the day of the show?
At our show your horse will be expected to be warmed up (either by you or one of our OSU riders). Our show is a western show meaning we have western horsemanship, ranch riding, and reining classes. All of these classes have patterns however only horsemanship requires rail work. Our patterns consist of maneuvers expected to be seen at AQHA shows. IHSA patterns are available online if you would like to review them.
Can I limit who rides my horse based on size and experience level?
yes, in our sign-up form we will ask you to let us know what your height and weight limits are as well as what classes you are comfortable with your horse being entered in. We have classes ranging from beginner walk trot to advanced.
