Skip to main content

New Riders

The year at CATRA is based on a trimester lesson schedule.

All new riders are required to have a site visit at CATRA prior to their first lesson. Contact Shirley at Snolt@catra.net or 717-919-4587 to schedule.

New Riders Must Complete A New Rider Application.

New Rider Application consists of the following and must be completed before a ride is scheduled.

  • Rider Registration and General History
  • Liability Release
  • Emergency Medical Authorization
  • Medical History (completed by a physician)
  • Physician’s Authorization
  • Therapy Assessment

Scheduling Your Lesson

Before you can schedule a lesson you must complete the New Rider Application.

The year at CATRA is based on a trimester lesson schedule. Please choose which Season/Lesson you wish to schedule below. 

Lessons are generally scheduled for the same day and time each week. Once you have completed the rider application and site visit, you can identify your availability for lessons at CATRA. After reviewing your available times we will be in touch regarding your schedule.

Summer Lessons

June 21, 2027 – August 20, 2027

Summer session typically begins the last Monday in June and lasts a minimum of 8 weeks.

Fall Lesson

September 21, 2026 – December 10, 2026

Fall session typically begins the last Monday in September and also lasts a minimum of 8 weeks

Winter/Spring Lesson

January 25, 2027 – May 20, 2027

Winter/Spring session typically begins the final Monday in January and lasts 16 weeks or more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequency
Riders will most often ride one (1) time per week. Riders are responsible to prepare their horse to the best of their ability and should arrive at CATRA 30 minutes prior to the lesson to get ready. Preparation includes grooming and tacking. Volunteers are on hand to assist riders in learning these skills and to support the riders where needed. Riders will spend a minimum of 30 minutes on horseback during their lesson.
What Ages Are Allowed?
CATRA accepts riders of all ages.
What are the fees? How much does it cost?

The fee for each lesson is $40.00 and is payable at the time of the lesson or may be paid online. There is also a $45.00 registration fee. This fee is payable for every riding session.

Site Visit
All new riders are required to have a site visit at CATRA prior to their first lesson and are encouraged to visit prior to beginning the application process. The visit will take place with riding instructor, Shirley Nolt. During the visit, Shirley will begin to assess the appropriate therapeutic riding requirements as well as determining the appropriate horse(s) for the rider. The visit will also help to acclimate the new rider and family to CATRA’s surroundings.