As the name suggests, Challenge Fundamentals focuses on the foundation skills used across Working Horse Challenges, Stockman’s Challenges and Cow Horse Challenges.
Throughout the camp, riders will receive practical instruction in horsemanship, with a strong emphasis on pattern interpretation, accuracy, execution and performance.
Riders will develop their skills and confidence in movements including:
- Rollbacks
- Haunch turns
- Flying changes
- Changes of pace and transitions
- Accurate pattern work
- Utility obstacles
- Time trials
They will also learn what judges are looking for, how different movements and elements are scored, and how to ride patterns more effectively to maximise their marks.
The discipline will also incorporate elements of the Pony Club Horsemanship Class held at the Sydney Royal Easter Show, giving riders valuable experience in the type of skills, accuracy and horsemanship required in competition.
By the end of camp, riders will have a much greater understanding of not only how to perform these skills, but why they are important — helping them improve their horse’s training, their own horsemanship and their overall competition performance.
Challenge Fundamentals is ideal for riders wanting to build a more responsive, balanced and versatile horse while developing practical skills that can be used across a wide range of Pony Club disciplines.
