Thank you to all campers for a great session.

2011 dates will be released soon.

The Stoneleigh-Burnham Intensive Riding Camp is designed for riders interested in learning how to be versatile and adaptable riders. Rather than working with one horse over the course of several days, IRC campers work with the school’s 40 horses. The Stoneleigh-Burnham Equestrian Center hosts an impressive group of horses from beginning walk-trot-canter horses to horses that are competitive in the Jumpers and Junior Equitation Medals. The IRC offers the unique opportunity to ride several horses in daily lessons. Instruction and lessons are focused on Hunt Seat Equitation, and riders can expect to receive instruction in dressage, jumpers and hunters as well.

Created with the methodology of the Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) and the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association in mind, the Intensive Riding Camp at Stoneleigh-Burnham School introduce girls to the concept of riding effectively within the constructs of these organizations. Stoneleigh-Burnham boasts four Interscholastic Equestrian Association National Championships as well as the many alumnae that have gone on to compete in renowned equestrian programs at the collegiate level.

IRC participants have a busy schedule including lessons, classroom education, hands-on learning in the stables and some off-campus free time. The program includes units on nutrition, fitness, horse care, stable management, equipment and basic illnesses and ailments. Participants take part in video clinics, in which videotaped lessons are later analyzed and discussed in a classroom. Girls have the opportunity to ride and learn with the the IRC director, Stoneleigh-Burnham’s riding program director and other guest instructors.

Lessons are run in a group format and offer the opportunity for campers to change mounts several times. There is a dress code for riding lessons consisting of field boots, breeches and a polo or plain colored fitted t-shirt.

Program director Samantha L. Pleasant ’02 is a riding instructor at Stoneleigh-Burnham School and co-coach of the Interscholastic Equestrian Association team. Samantha has spent the past two summers directing Bonnie Castle Riding Camp and before that was a Bonnie Castle counselor for five summers. She has taught at the Stoneleigh-Burnham Equestrian Center since the fall of 2006 and is licensed through the State of Massachusetts to teach horseback riding.

IRC is a small group of 6-8 girls who are selected through an application process based on ability. Applicants should be capable of jumping at least 2’3” on unfamiliar horses, able and comfortable riding without stirrups and used to coursework in both indoor and outdoor rings.

Applicants are asked to send in a brief questionnaire, a recommendation from their current trainer / coach and a photo or video. For an application and for further information, please contact Samantha Pleasant at sampleasant@sbschool.org or 413-773-8333.