On October 20, 2005, the American Riding Instructors Association (ARIA) will host an American Riding Instructors Certification Program (ARICP) Test Center in conjunction with its National Riding Instructors Convention in Orlando, FL. The convention, October 20-23, features seminars, workshops and one-on-one consultations for instructors, equine business managers, stable owners, trainers and coaches. Those registering for both the convention and the ARICP Test Center pay a discount rate.

The ARICP Test Center begins at 9 a.m. Throughout the day, participants take written exams about general horsemanship, general instruction, philosophy, the horse and one or two areas of specialization. In addition, candidates deliver a presentation related to their field and submit video tapes and essays to be reviewed by the ARICP Evaluating Panel. Results are delivered to candidates in six to eight weeks.

Through the ARICP, more than 1,000 instructors around the world have been certified in 14 areas--hunt seat, dressage, driving, eventing, recreational riding, reining, western equitation/pleasure, show jumping, saddle seat, mounted patrol training officer, distance riding, riding to hounds, sidesaddle and stable management. Three levels of certification are offered with age and competency requirements for each--Level I (Instructor in Training), Level II (Instructor of Beginner through Intermediate) and Level III (Instructor of Beginner through Advanced).

Registration for the ARICP Test Center in Orlando closes on September 20. Late registrations may be accepted for an additional fee if space is available. Additional ARICP Test Centers are scheduled throughout the year across the country.

To learn more about the American Riding Instructors Certification Program, the American Riding Instructors Association or the National Riding Instructors Convention, visit www.riding-instructor.com, call (239) 948-3232, or e-mail [email protected].


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