Students first learn about the various equestrian activities available and then begin to work in areas which interest them. On any given afternoon, for example, one group of students on horses may be working with an instructor on a very low-key routine, learning the basics. One goal for this group might be developing the confidence to play a game of equestrian tag or learning some elementary gymkhana exercises. Another group with a second instructor might be learning how to swing a polo mallet, working on walking and hitting exercises. Later in the school year, these groups might be playing vigorous gymkhana games, scrimmaging two or three chukkers, jumping a stadium course, or preparing for a training-level dressage test.
Students have opportunities to go beyond the requirements.
Instructors participate in an active polo league, and club polo is available to students with sufficient commitment and expertise. The school regularly participates in horse shows, and students are encouraged to get involved in these weekend activities. Student instructors receive credit for help with an elementary program on Friday afternoons. Follow this link to view a student-made webpage on the HPA Horse Program.