This week, we have one of our most exciting guest blogs to date – Jen Dresdow is here, announcing Runoia’s 2023 Equestrian Camp!
The equestrian program at Camp Runoia has grown over the past decade into one of our capstone programs. The past several summers have seen sold out lesson numbers. We are excited to launch enrollment for our new Equestrian Camp which will allow even more riders to enjoy our fantastic program! This riding intensive week will run Sunday August 13th to Saturday August 19th and will be open to girls going into 6th – 12th grade. This camp is an ideal prep week for those in both IEA and EAP, as they will have an opportunity to ride a variety of horses and practice in a show. However, there will be some spaces for beginner level riders as well.
Our lead coach for the week will be Kayleigh Burke. Kayleigh is collegiate level coach, having worked with both Hollins University and Virginia Tech, and currently coaches an IEA team out of Virginia Tech. Kayleigh is also a USEF ‘r’ rated judge for hunters and hunt seat equitation. Kayleigh will be assisted by collegiate level riders from Hollins University and Miami of Ohio University.
Along with 2 mounted riding lessons per day, campers will also get 2 unmounted lessons per day covering a variety of horsemanship topics from how to walk to a course to equine first aid to show grooming and braiding. Kayleigh and her staff will also discuss collegiate riding opportunities. Lessons will have 4-5 riders in the group with 2 instructors. A sample daily schedule is:
7:00 – Chores at barn (campers will rotate helping)
7:30 – Wake Up
8:00 – Breakfast
8:30 – Cabin Clean Up
9:00 – Coach talk/groom & tack
9:30 – Groups 1 & 2 lesson/Groups 3 & 4 Unmounted Lesson
10:30 – Snack
10:45 – Groups 3 & 4 lesson/Groups 1 & 2 Unmounted Lesson
11:45- All Chores
12:30 – Lunch
12:45 – Beach Time/Swimming/Rest
2:15 – Groups 1 & 2 lesson/Groups 3 & 4 Unmounted Lesson
3:15 – Snack
3:30 – Groups 3 & 4 lesson/Groups 1 & 2 Unmounted Lesson
4:30 – Chores
5:00 – Showers & Clean Up
6:00 – Supper
6:45 – Evening Program
8:00 – Bedtime Snack
8:30 – Cabin Time followed by Bed Time
Campers will also go on field trip to a local tack shop and sale barn. There will be some fun surprises as well! On Saturday August 19th, all campers will participate in a final horse show at 10am. Parents are welcome to attend the show and depart after with their camper.
Transportation from/to Portland Jetport will be available and a van from the Boston area may be available if we get enough demand. Cost for the camp is $1900. An early bird rate of $1800 will apply until May 1st. Parents can apply on our website. This program is limited to 18 riders and there are limited spots based on riders level. A $500 deposit is due at the time of confirmed enrollment.
Questions or to check on space, email jen@runoia.com or call 207-613-7004
Ready to ride? Register now!