NCTRC offers a variety of programming for both children and adults. Placement in these programs is made by our staff, based on the appropriate match of the needs of each individual and the skills targeted in each type of program. Currently, NCTRC provides horseback riding activities at Clearwind Farm in Orange County. All NCTRC participants must have approval from their doctor to participate in horseback riding. Check out our Rider Information section, email our Program Director, or call (919) 304-1009 to learn how to become involved in one of these programs.
Group Riding Classes: Classes of 2-4 riders are held afternoons and evenings, depending on location. We group riders according to age and riding ability as much as possible. These classes generally include warm-up activities, riding skills and group games. Horse leaders and rider assistants, called sidewalkers, are often used. Other horse related activities such as grooming and tacking (putting on the saddle and bridle) are included where appropriate.
Advanced Riding Classes: These classes are either private (one on one
instruction) or semi-private (2 riders to a class). The focus of the advanced
riding classes is on becoming independent in riding, that is to ride at the walk
and trot without a horse leader or sidewalker . Students for these advanced
classes are chosen by the instructors based on previous riding experience.
Hippotherapy: Hippotherapy (named from the Greek word for horse “hippos”) is a
physical therapy session in which the horse's movement is the primary treatment
tool. Physical therapists trained to provide hippotherapy utilize this movement
along with specialized exercises to meet specific treatment goals. Contact Mary
Beth Osborne, PT or Margie Muenzer, PT
for additional information regarding hippotherapy at NCTRC.
Special Olympics: Special Olympics offers equestrian competition each year for
qualifying participants from around the state. NCTRC selects riders to attend
the Special Olympics competition each July.
School Classes: NCTRC provides horseback riding to special education classes
during the school day. The students participate in both riding instruction and
barn activities. Contact Margie Muenzer, PT for
information on this program.