Here are some common questions that people have about the organization. As a matter of fact, most people involved with the club DON T own their own horses. All are welcome in this club, no matter what prior knowledge you may have about horses. The Illini Equestrian Club does actively participate in the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association sponsored shows at nearby universities. Showing intercollegiately does require some basic knowledge about horse handling, etc.
Riding is just an added benefit to joining the club, but no one has to ride.
Practices are held every Friday. The Western riders will carpool to Prairie Wind Farm in Fisher, and the English riders will carpool to Commonwealth Farm in St. Joseph. Once at the barn, basic skills are covered for beginning riders, such as how to handle a horse safely, how to groom the horse, how to saddle the horse, and how to ride. We have five well-qualified coaches on the team, ready to assist all riders at any skill level from beginning to advanced riders. You will have the opportunity to ride for about 45 minutes, and the rest of the time you will be helping to take care of the horses, feeding, etc.