Please keep in mind that this is to help me to evaluate your riding experience for the safest match with one of my horses while still allowing you some room to grow into your new horse.

Sometimes describing the number of years or lessons is not enough; the evaluation strives to create a standard for comfort level. It is also helpful for you to describe over the phone to me what breeds and ages of horses you have most recently been riding.

Walk-Trot - those who are in their first or second year of riding with some riding lessons (even if infrequently) and have had no experience in any form of competition.

Walk-Trot-Canter - those who have been riding for around four calendar years with frequent lessons and participated in some local (unrated) competitions. These riders may have ridden for a greater length of time but with infrequent lessons.

Advanced Walk Trot Canter – those who have been riding four or more calendar years and have competed frequently in unrecognized competitions. These riders are often still learning to jump and may not be comfortable jumping on an unfamiliar horse.

Novice – those riders who have lessoned for many years and competed at both recognized and unrecognized shows. They may have jumped up to 3' on familiar horses and should feel comfortable jumping 2'3"-2'6" on almost any horse.

Intermediate – those who have won more consistantly at recognized and local shows up to the 3'6" level, have competed at 2nd level dressage or higher, or have competed in a recognized combined training event at the Training Level. They may also have achieved a Pony Club "B" or "HA" rating. An intermediate level rider may be confident riding and jumping up to 3' on a new or green horse.

Advanced - riders who have won an USAE Medal or equivalent recognized 3'6" equitation class or a Preliminary level Event in recognized competition; riders who have competed in an Intermediate or Advanced level Event, or competed in USET Medal or Young Rider competition, or in recognized Dressage tests 4th level or higher; or A-rated Pony Club Riders. They may also have won more than 2 blue ribbons over fences 3'3" or higher or more than 8 blue equitation ribbons on the flat in recognized shows. Advanced riders are competent on green or seasoned horse up to 3' or higher depending upon the horses training and limitations.