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Farrel-McWhirter Park is home to a variety of
unique programs, including specialty pony programs. These programs are
designed for children ages 2-12 years old and teach both English and
Western Riding Techniques. English is a more formal riding style
originating in Europe and is very popular today in many parts of the
world. This form of riding is the basis for many other advanced riding
styles including dressage, hunter/jumper, eventing and polo. Western
Riding is the more traditional “cowboy style”, originating in the
Wild West and used today by ranchers working cattle, rodeo cowboys, and
in pleasure/trail/mountain riding. For specific quarterly dates and
times on the
different Pony Programs, see the on-line
Recreation
Guide.
Program Site: Farrel-McWhirter Park (Farm and Nature Park)
Address: 19545 Redmond Road
Program Supervisor: Pamela McMahon, Farm Coordinator
Phone: 425-556-2309
Preschool Pony Pal
This class is designed for the preschool-age child 2-5 years old and
parent and meets twice for 45 minutes each. There are only two students
per class which features safety, grooming, and a short trail ride.
Beginning Pony Workshops
Designed for the first time rider. Two students per pony will learn
safety around ponies, basic grooming, and riding techniques. Meets once
for one hour and children attend on their own. This class or a
Parent/Child Workshop is a requirement for 4 year olds before they can
attend a Just Horsin' Around I class.
Parent/Child Pony Workshops
Designed for the first time rider 4+ years and parent and meets once for
one hour. Two parent/child groups are assigned to a pony. Safety,
grooming, and riding techniques are introduced.
Just Horsin' Around I (English and Western)
The Just Horsin' Around I class covers safety and beginning riding
techniques. The children will learn to groom, saddle, bridle, and ride
their pony.
Just Horsin' Around II & III (English and Western)
The Just Horsin' Around II expands the participant's knowledge of
horsemanship. Emphasis is put on reining, leg control, use of aides, and
horse behavior. Activities vary based on abilities of students.
Junior Horse Masters/ Beginning and Intermediate (English or Western)
Designed for the beginner/intermediate rider who is 8-12 years old. Each
child is assigned to one specific pony. The program is designed to be
on-going to progressively develop equestrian skills and knowledge.
Junior Horse Masters Trail Ride
An hour trail ride through the forest for those who have completed the
Junior Horse Master Beginner class.
Pony Camps (English, Western and Junior Horse Masters)
Offered during winter, spring, and summer vacations only. This program
combines riding and classroom activities. Participants learn parts of
the horse, saddle parts, and detailed horsemanship skills during the
camp. The additional riding time helps refine techniques. Activities
include trail rides, crafts, and activities related to the program.
Home School Horsemanship Series
Designed specifically for the “horse crazy” home school student age 8-14
years old, this program will teach the basics of horsemanship including:
safety, grooming, handling, nutrition, and English and western tacking
and riding techniques. Each student has their own pony twice per week
for 4 weeks.
The Farrel-McWhirter Pony Club provides youth the opportunity to
volunteer in a beautiful farm setting, while learning new equestrian
skills, enjoying hands on experiences with farm animals, and sharing
their skills and knowledge with our young program participants.
Pony Club members will make new friends and enjoy a variety of
activities on and off the farm. We provide extensive training by our
expert instructors and work hands-on with each pony club member. Pony
Club dues are only $15 per year, which helps provide training, a
Pony Club T-shirt, and other discounts. You can earn incentive awards to
free rides and trainings while having fun, enhancing your skills and
self esteem, and best of all, while giving back to your community. You
must be at least 12 years of age, but you don't need any previous horse
experience. Scholarships are available for membership dues. Call the
Recreation office for an information packet and application 425-556-2300 ext 3.
To view the Pony
Club's own website, select this link. It will take you off the City
of Redmond's website, and this should not be construed as an endorsement
or sponsorship of the website, their content, or their host. View
the full City of Redmond web
purpose and policies.
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