Horses of Hope to offer lessons at FSCC

FORT SCOTT, Kan. -- The Horses of Hope Riding Center, Inc., a therapeutic equestrian facility based in Baxter Springs, Kan., is bringing the 2010 Fall Horseback Riding Lesson series to Fort Scott Community College.

The six-week series is designed for horse enthusiasts of all ages who are interested in exploring possibilities with horses and learning to ride horses, according to a news release.

"The riding lessons are for anyone, any age, who is interested in recreational riding," Mycah McColm, the instructor of the course and staff member at Horses of Hope, said.

The lesson series will take place every Monday starting Sept. 20 and will run weekly through Oct. 25 at FSCC's Arnold Arena.

Two lesson times will be available -- 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. and 4:45 to 5:45 p.m. The lesson series is geared toward beginning and intermediately skilled horse lovers and enthusiasts.

McColm is an accomplished equestrian who has worked with horses for 17 years. As both a youth and amateur competitor, she has captured world and reserve world championship titles with the American Paint Horse Association, as well as top five and top 10 world show winnings with the American Quarter Horse Association. In the AQHA 2009 standings, she was named third in the nation in the amateur all-around events. McColm is also currently a student at FSCC.

During the series, participants will learn about several topics, including the importance of horse safety, grooming and tacking, and the development of basic horsemanship skills.

Horses that are properly trained and necessary equipment for the sessions will be provided by Horses of Hope.

"It's as much about preparation as riding the horse," McColm said.

The cost for the lessons is $30 per rider for a one-hour lesson. All participants must register with Horses of Hope in advance.

Space in the course is limited, so those interested in participating should register as soon as possible.

For more information and to register, call (620) 674-3458, (620) 429-0392, send an e-mail to hoh@ckt.net, or visit the Horse of Hope Web site at http://www.horsesofhope.com.

The Horses of Hope Riding Center, Inc., a nonprofit organization driven by volunteers, opened in 1997.