Equestrian

Last week, Year 8/9 Equine Students travelled to Boomerang Ranch in Daylesford for the inaugural Equestrian Camp. Each day consisted of a 2 to 5 hour trail ride, with students focusing on saddling and pre-riding care of the horses, as well as the skills of riding in the bush. For many students, it was their first time out of the arena or off the farm so it was a great opportunity to brush up on their skills. The afternoons consisted of a look around the historic towns of Daylesford and Hepburn Springs and we even got to visit the delectable Daylesford Chocolate Mill!

On Saturday 7 October, we had12 riders from school and the community come to the College Equestrian Centre to participate in the Adam Wooten clinic. For many of our riders, it was their first time at the College Equestrian Centre and both the instruction, and the weather did not disappoint. Riders worked on transitions between and before the fences, as well as focussing on rider position, suppleness of the horse and responsiveness to aides. Adam’s clinic was such a hit, that we’ve already asked him back and he has confirmed he is happy to return. Our next clinic with Adam will most likely happen early in the new year.

With our jump lessons completed, we now look to our next weekend clinic with the indominable Susie Walker. Susie’s approach to riding could be classified as ‘classical’, with a focus on working in synergy with your horse. The clinic will consist of theory, practical demonstrations and ridden lessons covering:

• The Rider's influence on the horse's feelings & habits 
• The Horse's influence on the rider's feelings & habits 
• The rein effects and how they apply to different horses
• Educating the horse to the hands: "mise en main"
• Légèreté principles & priorities for self-carriage
• Practical exercises for balance, impulsion & rhythm.

Bookings for Susie’s clinic can be made here: Susie Walker LÉGÈRETÉ Clinic | Humanitix

Finally, Horsemanship lessons resumed for both junior and senior students last week. It’s been wonderful to see the energy return. We are always open to new students joining in. Just drop an email to equestrian@hamiltoncollege.vic.edu.au for further information.

Congratulations to Muirne Reilly (Vice Captain Equestrian) for her amazing efforts representing Victoria at the Interschool Nationals Competition. Muirne and Billy entered in the Working Hunter category and placed 4th overall.

Congratulations must also go to Finley and Charlie Hiscock who successfully competed at the Pony Club Australia Nationals, representing Victoria in the Junior Boys Tetrathlon squad. Finley and Charlie’s team came away with the win, making them National Champions in their age group for pony club.

Further acclaim goes to Charlie Hiscock who has been selected as one of four riders to participate in the PCA 2023 exchange to China.