FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS THE TIME COMMITMENT?
Lessons run for 10 weeks each semester. Recreational Team members ride once per week, with a time commitment of approximately 3 hours per week, while Show Team members ride twice per week, with a time commitment of approximately 6 hours per week.
This time includes transportation to and from the barn, tacking up, a one-hour lesson, and untacking afterward. Riders are expected to commit to their assigned lesson time each week and communicate in advance if they are unable to attend.
Show Team members should also expect an additional time commitment for competitions throughout the semester. Show dates and details can be found on our Event Calendar and Home pages.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
The cost of lessons varies each semester and largely depends on the number of riders participating on the team. Riders should expect lesson fees to be a few hundred dollars per semester, with the final cost provided once lesson groups and team numbers are confirmed.
This fee covers lessons only and does not include riding attire, equipment, or other personal expenses.
Show Team riders should also expect additional costs associated with competing. IHSA show fees are $50 per class, in addition to the semester lesson fee.
WHERE DO YOU RIDE?
Both our Show Team and Recreational Team take lessons at Harmony Rein Equestrian in Mendon, NY, located approximately 30 minutes from campus. Team members carpool to and from the barn for their weekly lessons.
Our lesson instructor and Show Team coach is Lindsay Stauffer. Lessons are taught in small groups and focus on developing each rider’s skills through flatwork and jumping based on their experience level. Riders also have the opportunity to work with a variety of horses throughout the semester, helping build confidence and adaptability in the saddle.
WHAT IF I DON'T HAVE ANY RIDING ATTIRE?
You do not need to own traditional riding attire to ride with URET! We understand that riding gear can be expensive, especially for those just getting started.
For lessons, long pants and closed-toe shoes are required. Clothing should be comfortable and fitted enough that it is not loose or flowy while riding. Jeans, leggings, and other fitted athletic pants are all acceptable. Shoes with a small heel are strongly preferred for safety. Helmets are available at the barn to borrow during lessons, however, it's convienent to have your own.
If you decide to invest in riding attire, such as breeches, paddock boots, or your own helmet, there are plenty of options available both online and at local tack shops. Proper show attire is required for Show Team members competing at IHSA shows.
WHAT IF I'VE NEVER RIDDEN BEFORE?
Our Recreational Team welcomes riders of all experience levels! We do our best to group riders with others of similar experience so that everyone can learn, progress, and enjoy their lessons safely.
Our Show Team requires previous riding experience. Riders interested in joining the Show Team should preferably be comfortable with:
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Catching, grooming, tacking up, and untacking a horse
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Riding independently at the walk, trot, and canter
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Jumping cross-rails
If you’re interested in the Show Team but aren’t sure if your experience meets these expectations, we still encourage you to reach out to us!
DO WE RIDE DURING THE ROCHESTER WINTER?
Yes! Rochester winters can start as early as the end of September and last through April, but that doesn’t stop us! As long as travel conditions are safe and lessons have not been cancelled by the barn, lessons will continue as scheduled. Riders are expected to attend their scheduled lessons unless otherwise communicated.
We highly recommend dressing warmly with lots of layers, gloves, hand warmers, and toe warmers—the barn can get cold!
HOW DO I REACH OUT?
You can either send us an email or DM us through Instagram!
Email: urequestrian.0@gmail.com
Instagram: urochester_equestrian