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ECETC's Horse Camp

is

for youngsters, teens and adults!

You don't need to know how to ride to be an ECETC camper

But you will know a lot about horses and riding when camp is over!!!

Hey kids! Are your parents coming to Virginia Beach for some time on the beach in the summer? Tell your parents to go spend the day soaking up the sun, while you spend the day soaking up some great fun at ECETC's Horse Camp!  Or tell them to come to horse camp too! Let them learn your love for horses, or find out just how much love for horses they have always had!

That's right! ECETC Horse Camp isn't just for kids! It's also for equestrian lovers who wish they were 6 again and those who want their dreams of learning all about riding a horse to come true!  Don't let the summer get away without learning all about horses, how to ride, and lots of time riding them!

Beginners will learn all the basics about horses and how to ride! Experienced riders will learn to polish their skills.  There will be lots of riding time, learning about horses and their care, games on horseback, and all kinds of other fun things to do with the horses and ponies at ECETC!  At the end of the week, have your family come watch you and your fellow campers show off what you have learned in the ECETC Horse Camp! Attendance Certificates signed by Sharon will be given to each camper after the show!

Campers at our camp are taught with an emphasis on safety and balance. We teach beginners, eventer, hunter and jumpers in various levels of training.  Horses are provided for the campers and are matched to the campers riding style and ability.  Campers are placed in small group classes with campers of similar ability. This allows a comfortable but challenging learning environment.

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2009 Horse Camp Dates

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What to Bring for riding:

• ASTM-SEI approved helmet (NOT BIKE HELMET)

• Tan Jodhpurs, breeches, or chaps with jeans

• Riding Boots (Not sneakers, something with a heel. If not sure, please call)

• Sunscreen (optional)

• Bug Spray (optional)

A complete list of what to bring is provided for you in the Enrollment packet.

There are many local tack shops where these items may be purchased. Some of them have items for consignment.

Carrousel Tack

Chesapeake Saddlery

Coast Line Tack Shop

Sterling Meadows Tack Shop

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Beginner Camp: (Ages 6 through Adult ) includes:

Campers learn the basics of riding and horse care.  You will learn how to brush, bathe, feed, and take care of your assigned horses.  They will learn to lead, saddle and bridle a horse/pony.  And get lots of riding instruction!

Regular Camp (Ages 6 through adult) includes:

All campers are evaluated for their riding skill levels and matched to a horse/pony based on that evaluation. They are placed in groups of similar riding skills. This can include beginner, intermediate and advanced riders regardless of age. 

Your Camp: (Ages 6 through Adult ):

We know we are in an area where vacationers try to arrange dates and times around their schedules.  So, if you are planning a vacation or business in the area and the dates listed above do not coincide, just let us know!  We will work with you to hold "your camp" at a day and time more convenient for you!  It may be a time that someone else may have already asked for, or you may have a private camp.  You will learn the same things as in our other camps.  Just send us an email to make arrangements, when it is confirmed, just check the box for "Your Camp" on the enrollment form.

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What to expect during camp

You will learn the basics, such as:

Proper tack and fitting for English
Basic horse care
Horse handling safety

Under Saddle Training
Position for English
Exercises for relaxation & balance
Communication through leg, seat & hand aids

Open rein & neck rein

Control of speed and simple transitions

Flat Work
Basic ground training & manners
How to lunge your horse
Horse behavior

Posting Trot

Diagonals

Simple training patterns

Canter transitions

Leads

Harmonizing with your horse

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Enrollment Forms for Horse Camp

All 6 links below comprise the entire enrollment packet.  Mailing information is on the Enrollment Information Form.  A copy of all signed forms will be provided to you the first day of camp.  Just click on each title below to download that form!

Camp Synopsis and Information

Enrollment Form*

*This form must be returned for enrollment

All forms are in Word Format

If you are not able to download the forms, or do not have word,

please send email to horsecamp@eastcoastsporthorses.com and we will mail the forms to you!

We are working to create an easy to use enrollment form.

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Where is the camp located?

ECETC Horse Camp is located just outside the Pungo borough of Virginia Beach. See Directions page for map and specific directions.

How old do I have to be? 

You can be as young as 6 and as young as you feel! Our campers have ranged from age 6 to age 52!

Should I bring extra money for expenses?

Everything is pretty much included in the price of the camp.  We do have vending machines for drinks and snacks.

Are there accommodations for out of town campers?

Check the nearby places on the Directions page.  Some special accommodations may be made through Sharon personally.  Send email to sharon@eastcoastsporthores.com, be sure to include a return phone number.

Can I bring my own horse?

Yes. There are stalls available for campers' horses. Current Coggins and up to date shots, worming and health records are required. Contact ECETC for details.

Can I choose the horse I want to ride?

Our staff will usually choose the horse that you ride, to allow for a good match of skill levels. However, sometimes special requests can be honored.

Can I bring my own saddle?

Yes. However, we cannot guarantee that you can ride in it. If your saddle does not properly fit the horse that you will be riding, you will ride in a different saddle that fits the horse. Improperly fitting saddles can cause sore backs, and we do everything we can to assure the well-being of our camp horses.

Are Cell phones allowed?

Cell phones are allowed, but it is suggested that they be put on vibrate or remain off during instructional time and activities. 

Is food allowed?

There are vending machines inside the barn that carry a variety of snacks and drinks, including Gator-Ade and water. You are welcome to bring your own if you like. 

What is the climate like?

Summer days can be hot.  Sunscreen and bug repellent is a good thing to bring.  SPF 15 will be good for most, while SPF 30 is good for those prone to burn.  We have a large, well ventilated, indoor arena for those "scorching" days!

What does the camp do in the event of a weather-related emergency?

Severe weather is rarely a problem in the months that camp is in session, ECETC has a huge indoor riding area that is connected to the barn!  Should something arise that the camp should be canceled, you and/or parents will be notified.

What if some other emergency occurs?

All pertinent information must be filled out thoroughly on the camp enrollment form in case notifications need to be made. 

How soon do I have to register for camp?

Since the dates for horse-camp change from year to year, it will be posted on the website along with other pertinent information that is included with the enrollment forms.  There is a lot of preparation that goes into insuring all supplies and necessities are in place for each camper, therefore, registration forms should be in no later than 1 month prior to the posted camp date session.  Exceptions can be made in extreme circumstances.  There is a discount for enrollment forms and fees received 90 days in advance of the camp session.

Are there other activities at camp? 

Our camp focuses primarily on learning about horses, their care, grooming and riding. There is a lot of riding time in our camp!

How can I get more information?

When you request an ECETC Equestrian Day Camp Enrollment form, you will receive a packet that will contain lots of information.  You can email ECETC to get yours!  Or just call us at 757-270-5228! Or download one by clicking here!

Click on the stamp to send email inquiring about the horse camp!