The Equestrian Club currently has over 70 members dedicated to loving horses, JMU, and having fun. The team welcomes all students who are interested in promoting and learning more about the equestrian world. Listed below are some FAQs that should help you understand how to join and give you an idea of what to expect.

FAQS

How do I join the Equestrian Club?

At the beginning of each semester, Student Organization Services holds a Student Organizations Night where we have members working a booth for new students to come and find out more information about our club.  This is where we announce our first meeting time and location for new students. At the first club meeting you will get the forms and information necessary to become a member.

What does the Equestrian Club do?

In addition to weekly meetings, the club does fundraising events, movie nights, potluck dinners, a semi-formal each semester, along with lots of other social events.

How do I sign up for lessons?

At the first meeting, anyone who is interested in taking lessons will be given a lesson package with lesson information and amounts. Fill out the forms and have the package with you to give to Brilee Farm when you go out for your first lesson.

How does lesson scheduling work?

You will be given information at the first meeting on how to email Brilee Farm with your class schedule and your riding level. Your lesson will be scheduled around your class schedule. Lessons are generally given between noon and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday. If you know that you want to take lessons, try to schedule your classes in the morning so that you have a couple afternoons available for lessons.

How do I get to Brilee Farm if I don't have a car?

Part of lesson scheduling is making sure that everyone has a ride to their lesson. When you email your schedule to Brilee Farm, indicate whether or not you have a car. There will be at least one person with a car in each lesson to carpool students.

What riding discipline does the Equestrian Team practice?

Riding lessons focus on the English Hunter / Jumper style of riding. But members of our team are involved in multiple disciplines including Eventing, and the Western sport of Reining.

Do I have to have any horse experience to take riding lessons?

No. We have coaches and horses suitable for all levels of riders. Beginners are welcome.

Do I have to have my own tack and equipment to take lessons?

No. Students are welcome to bring their own saddles, helmets, and chaps, but Brilee Farm supplies students with all of the necessary tack. You will not be required to buy tack.

How do the IHSA (Intercollegiate Horse Show Association) shows work?

Out team competes against other Virginia colleges at these shows. Teams travel to the host school and ride their horses. Riders will draw their horse shortly before they show, and are not given any time to warm up before showing. Riders are judged on their equitation. For more information about IHSA go to their website.

Who gets to show?

The number of show riders varies with each show depending on the amount of students each school is allowed to have. Our head coach chooses which students will ride in which divisions. The choice is made based on the student's riding level, participation, and performance in lessons. Different riders will be selected for each show, but due to the limited spaces available, not every student will be able to show in IHSA. Other shows are available for interested students. Dates and costs will be posted at the barn whenever these shows are available.

If you have any questions that are not answered on this page, please contact Paige Bahr at bahrpe@jmu.edu