A member must be 8 years old. She may retain membership until September 1 following her high school graduation. The prospective member will be assigned a "big sister" to help her to learn the rules and procedures of the troop, as well as the essentials of horse safety. The prospective member will have an introductory lesson. This allows the trainer to evaluate her riding ability.
Gateway Trails Association (GTA), and the group offer a comprehensive equestrian program. As a member, you will develop basic horsemanship skills including the care of horses and riding capabilities. Simultaneously there is a development of responsibilty, discipline, safe habits, and challenging situations to establish good learning patterns and self-confidence. As a member you will be presented with the oppotunity and challenge of the contributing to the success of this Riding Club and develop leadership skills and capabilities. Through all of this we offer fun and healthy recreation.
The parents' organization, known as Gateway trails Association, sponsors and provides support for GTA Riding Club. They maintain the facilities, supervise activities, and see to the welfare of the girls. These are a few of the responsibilities. All parents are required to become members of the GTA when their daughter joins the group. It is important that becoming a member is a family commitment of time and effort. But, there are benefits to share.
Parents are expected to assume "DUTY PARENT" responsibilities every 8-10 weeks. This will be dependent on total membership. As "DUTY PARENT" you will spend a full day at the ranch, being the first to arrive and the last to leave. The times of troop day are set by the season, summer 8-2 and winter 9-3. As a parent you will be expected to participate in fund-raisers, horse shows, and community service.
The members have a list of duties and obligations which they assume. The applicant should fully understand these. Working together, the members enjoy the statisfaction of sharing group pride in their accomplishments and satisfaction of horsemanship. The members participate in "TRAINING DAY" each Saturday-52 weeks a year. "TRAINGING DAY" is structured to the care of the horses, riding lessons, and activities off the ranch. Off ranch activities include field trips, seminars, and horse shows. You need not own a horse to join GTA Riding Club. A member is assigned to a horse by the trainer, depending on riding capabilities. Two members may be assigned to a horse. Care of the horse, stall maintenance, and riding time must be shared. Tack is furnished but it is the responsibility of the member to keep it in good shape and replace items lost. You must supply your own helemt, grooming supplies, halter, and lead rope as stated on the mandatory equipment list.
There are several levels of riding proficiency. The member will be required to understand and demonstrate a mastery of ascending levels of horsemanship knowledge.
We want you as a family to understand the obligation you are assuming in applying for membership. We all have to do our share in assuming part of the work load. There is a real commitment of time and effort from the parents and member.
In return for your commitment and effort, you will enjoy a close relationship with your daughter. As parents you will be able to help her and other members develop equestrian skills, social skills, and character. You and your daughter will have fun and the memories will last a lifetime.