Equestrian
Captain Sophie Pembleton
Riding Instructor
email:
sophie_pembleton@sarasota.k12.fl.us
www.horserentals.com/circlewranch.html
The equestrian I class is now working double time!! The class is so popular that there are now two periods of horse crazy cadets. First quarter, the beginners ride and 2nd quarter the advanced class will be offered 1st and 2nd period. The students are really enjoying the time outside with the horses, even in our Florida climate. The 4 horses are ridden by 3 to 4 cadets each period, then are given a nice cool shower and offered fresh water, treats and sometimes carrots that the riders bring in. We will be getting ready for our final out at the ranch where there will be lots of riding, grooming and even some “pooper-scooping”! Next quarter comes the highlight of the year with the big Veteran’s Day parade, where the horses and riders will be wearing their colors proudly to honor SMA and the Veteran’s of foreign wars. Cesar, Toby, Star, Scarlet, Cowboy, and Peaches will do us proud!!!
This class is a P.E. elective and lasts 1 quarter.
No experience is necessary, just a love of animals!
In Equestrian, students will learn all different aspects related to
horses. They will be on the riding field three days per week and in the
classroom for the other two. On the field they will learn skills
associated
with leading horses, grooming, riding, and caring for the animals. The
basics of both english and western disciplines are learned in Equestrian
1 and english riding is emphasized in Equestrian 2. In the classroom,
students will go over the history, anatomy, breeds, uses, sports, jobs,
health, safety and many other aspects related to the horse. There are
also field trips and guest speakers. This is a fun and interesting P.E.
credit that is not offered
at
any other schools around here and is just one of the unique
opportunities available at SMA.
Equestrian student quote:
-"I believe that the equestrian class is the best part of my day. What other schools in the U.S. actually have horses trotting at school. You get to learn fun and exciting facts about horses and their uses in the old days." Christopher Ellis
-"The equestrian class at SMA is a very wonderful experience and I think everyone should experience what its like in our saddles." Amanda Roberts
-"When I first started Equestrian I did not think that I would like it, but after we started to ride and learn how to take care of the horses, it wasn’t bad. There are a lot of notes but that is not that bad because there is no homework...All in all I like the class a lot." Alex Lichter
-"Our teacher Cpt. Pembleton is so much fun. My favorite horse is Cowboy. He is a retired barrel racer. When you ride him, he responds to your commands. He also loves to run. Cpt. Pembleton is teaching us how to take care of a horse so we know how to care for one if we get one. If you like horses I suggest you take this class. You will love it!" Matthew Smith
-"You are outside in the crisp air on an animal whose sole purpose is to serve you. In this class there are no 4 wall barriers, except two days a week, but even then we are learning about this century old animal... In my opinion, equestrian is the best class of the day, you’re outside on a great animal, how can it not be your favorite class." Kyle Seeger
-"I hated horses before and now I think they’re awesome! There is no better feeling than on something that can hurt you anytime they want, but will not because of the bond that you share between each other." Crystal Ibold
Links