NARHA Certification

Well, over the last four days I put about 650 miles and 9 hours on my car. I traveled to Oregon, WI (just outside Madison) to a therapeutic riding center called Three Gaits for a NARHA two day workshop and certification weekend. But it was all worth it for two pieces of paper that make it official- I am now a Registered Instructor.

Thursday and Friday were workshop days. It was during this time while learning and talking with two NARHA Master Instructors and about twelve other people hoping to get certified, I realized what a well rounded program We Can Ride is. Everything we talked about, every example they used, every scenario, I had heard or seen it before through WCR. I could think of a client, horse, volunteer, or an instructor that had taught me something, had educated me a certain way that allowed me to be this well educated instructor in training. It is a real testament to our program, and the people in it.

The we had to demonstrate our riding skills Friday night. I was on a cute paint horse named Snowcap, who was very steady and un-bothered by the thunderstorm, but that in turn made him a little pokey. It took some effort to get him going... but we managed to finish the pattern with all components. Then it was lesson time on Saturday. I had to teach a 20 minute lesson to two clients... with everyone watching! But it was really great, the clients were very smart and engaged while we learned about horse parts!

Equine therapy people are awesome people. Across the board with everyone that I met there, whether working on certification or volunteering, everybody was so helpful and supportive. Everyone wanted everyone else to pass. Sharing stories of experiences and horse stories, talking about lesson plans and class actives.

It was an experience unlike anything else. I am so thankful for the support of WCR and all the clients, volunteers, parents, staff and IOS who helped me on this journey. Who taught me something new, who were patient and encouraging and offered constructive advice. I will be continuing to learn and develop as an instructor with WCR's help, and I look forward to being able to help them grow in return.

So, I am happy to join Debbie and Signe as 2007's NARHA Registered (Certified) Instructors.

Here's my certificate!