ACTHA obstacle course - Mounting

[oldernewbie]

So, just for a change of pace I’ve signed my lower level dressage horse up for a local ACTHA obstacle course event. I’ve trail ridden him before and he seems to like all the stuff we’ve been working on. I, however, can’t quite figure out the mounting test. What if you are a 63 year old fart like me with a bad knee on one leg and a bum ankle on the other? No way I can haul myself up on my 15.3 horse! I can’t tell if they let you use a mounting block or ???

I did notice that one of the mounting tests was to stand the horse in a ditch. We have already got that one mastered - dropped my keys out of my pocket on the trails one day and the only way back up was to use the ditch. Score one for us!

Thanks for the help!

[enjoytheride]

I did an actha challenge test where you had to mount with one arm in a sling, they provided a mounting block. Even the western riding helmetless people used it!

[Flash44]

Here are the obstacles. Have fun!

https://www.actha.us/obstacles

[JFJ]

According to their description “management will always provide a mounting block”

[Chall]

I love the frog in pond graphic:), and would to see one of these on film. Any youtubes of this?

[JFJ]

We just did the frog pond this Friday at my local fair! It was my first ACTHA class (and the first time at the fair too). They had a small kiddie pool set up with some plants around it and we had to throw a small rubber toy (wasn’t actually a rubber frog) in for the splash. I don’t know if there are any you tubes of it but maybe soon!

[oldernewbie]

We have been working on the frog pond thing. I’m using a feed pan and a bucket and dropping rocks into them. I love the expression on my horse’s face when we practice - kind of like “what crazy thing are you up to now woman!” Today was learn how to drag day. 15 lb jug of cat litter and a rope. I got that look again! But he definitely picks this up quickly. Can’t wait to try the competition.

ETA: thanks for the info on mounting block!

[JFJ]

I just started doing these competitions this year. We have other cowboy challenges that are not ACTHA but still just as fun. It’s amazing what horses can do!

[quietann]

I’ve really enjoyed these rides, and there has always been a mounting block available. However, the judges didn’t know whether to praise or penalize me for dismounting to the right like I usually do…