Hi all-
I’ve never “been” to this board before, but the H/J board said you guys could help me out.
I’ve always wanted to learn how to ride sidesaddle. How would I go about finding someone who teaches it (if there is anyone)? At some point, when I’ve learned a bit, I’d probably also be interested in buying a sidesaddle, so I’m also interested in hearing advice as to how to fit it (does it fit like a regular hunt saddle?) for both me and my horse.
I don’t know who can teach you in your area, but I think there is a group online of side saddle riders who really enjoy it - you might google it. I think you were referred to the hunter board because there are those who hunt sidesaddle. Growing up, my best friend (older woman) hunted her older gelding sidesaddle. Had a habit made which was appropriate for today sidesaddle. I rode it once - the key to staying on was to squeeze your thighs together with the horns between your legs, and you couldn’t come off for love or money. Very cool.
Here’s a good group to check out. I went through their certification program years ago to become an instructor.
this is another awesome group that if you contact them should be able to help you
http://www.libertysidesaddle.org/
I know a couple of the trustees personally and they’re the ones that taught me to ride side saddle.
Look on the Yahoo Groups listing and look for “Chicagoland Aside”.
They are a group into sidesaddle riding in the general Chicago area.
They ride both English and Western Sidesaddle.
You will have to apply for membership as I do not think it is open to the public.
There are several regional groups of the American Sidesaddle Association all over the USA. There has to be one close by.
There is a Clinic in Illiois area in November but I would have to get the date and time and location for you.
Hope this helps.
sadlmakr
