Driving Clinics & Events
sponsored by the
Carriage Barn Equestrian Center, LLC

For more information and details for the upcoming clinics,
please contact the Carriage Barn Business Office:
603-378-0140; 603-378-0140 or send an e-mail to carriage-barn@comcast.net


The registration forms are in .pdf format. You will need FREE Acrobat Reader from Adobe. Click on the icon on the left. If you still have trouble obtaining a registration form, please call the office for assistance.

2008 Calendar of Events

Private Driving Lessons by appointment – $65 per One Hour Lesson
Events / Dates subject to change - be sure to call to confirm.

January

  • January 6, 13, 20 & 27 - Sundays in January: Introduction to Carriage Driving – Group Beginner Driving Lessons run Sundays from 1 to 4pm. Space is limited so register early. Beginners encouraged. [registration]

February

  • February 10thA Day of Sleighing & Mock Sleigh Rally - Join other sleighing enthusiasts for an afternoon of fun in the sun and snow. We will have an introduction to Sleighing and mock "sleighing" classes in our rolled outdoor arena (weather permitting). If there is no snow, bring your carriage, dress in your best sleigh costume and bring a picture of your sleigh and we will be "sleighing" in our indoor arena. There will be discussions on sleigh bells, costumes, etc, as well as a variety of sleighs on display. A perfect photo opportunity for everyone that wants a picture for next year’s Christmas card. Just like the ski slopes, please call ahead for conditions. If you would like to attend, please contact to The Carriage Barn as soon as possible. Private lessons also available. The Carriage Barn can be reach at 603-378-0140 or by email at carriage-barn@comcast.net
  • February 17th & 24th – A Day of Sleighing – Noon to 3pm.  Join other sleighing enthusiasts for an afternoon of fun in the sun and snow.  Bring your own, or call ahead to reserve a horse and sleigh.  Come enjoy the joy of sleighing.  Private lessons available.

March

  • March 1st & 2nd – The Driving Forum – Come visit our booth at the Driving Forum.

  • March 8th, 22nd & April 5th – The Frostbite Series Arena Driving Events – Cones courses, Obstacles, and Driven Dressage.  All in our lovely indoor arena.  Taste the thrill of timed events, gallop to the frozen finish line.  Spectators encouraged. [more information & registration]

  • March 16th – Training Level Introduction to Arena Trial #1 – These Training Level only events are intended for first time driving trials drivers. Before you drive each phase it will be explained, questions answered, courses walked, and scoring explained. A great introduction in a low key atmosphere. Competitors will be divided into Pony, Horse, and Junior Divisions. Want to try it, but don’t have an appropriate horse or pony? Call us about using one of ours. [more information & registration]

April

  • April 12th & 13th – Miniature Horse Forum -- Northeast Miniature Horse Club weekend of clinics with world-renowned breeder, trainer, and judge Mike McCabe
  • Saturday - Northeast Miniature Horse Clubs Annual American Miniature Horse Association Amateur Clinic with Mike McCabe.  Hands-on Training of the Halter Horse including tips on Conditioning, Grooming, Show Ring Prep & Presentation.  Special presentation on the nutritional needs of the Miniature Horse, presented by Reneé Mariniello of Platform Miniature Horse Feed.
  • Sunday – The 2nd Annual Mike McCabe Driving Clinic.  Mike’s not-to-be-missed Round Pen Demonstration followed by private driving lessons for you and your horse (approx 50 minutes each).  Auditors welcome, Q & A Encouraged.  Lesson slots for this clinic are filling fast, so reserve ASAP. [more information & registration]

  • April 20th – Training Level Introduction to Arena Trail #2 – These Training Level only events are intended for first time driving trials drivers. Before you drive each phase it will be explained, questions answered, courses walked, and scoring explained. A great introduction in a low key atmosphere. Competitors will be divided into Pony, Horse, and Junior Divisions. Want to try it, but don’t have an appropriate horse or pony? Call us about using one of ours. [more information & registration]

  • April 27th, May 4th, 11th & 17th – Introduction to Carriage Driving – Group Lessons from 1 to 4pm.  Space is limited so register early.  Beginners welcome. [more information & registration]

May

  • May 18th – Evaluation / Maintenance / Appraisals of Antique & Modern Carriages – Ever wonder if your wheels need attention, your brakes work properly, or that antique vehicle is really safe to drive?  Come bring your vehicle and learn how to check all the trouble spots for safety and wear.  Here is a chance to learn from the experts how to ensure you and your horse are safe for summer driving.

  • May 24th & 25th – Northeast Miniature Horse Club & Rescue American Miniature Horse Association Shows – Two American Miniature Horse Association pointed shows with two AMHA carded judges judging a full schedule of classes each day; including halter, showmanship, obstacle, jumping and driving classes for Open, Amateur, and Youth exhibitors. Included also will be NMHC's unique Mentored Beginner classes.  There will also be the very unique and beautiful Liberty class, where Miniature Horses are set free to perform 'at liberty' to specially selected music. Earn 4 sets of points toward AMHA World Show qualification, Honor Roll and NMHC's Year End Championships.  You do not need to be a member of NMHC to participate in the show, but your horses must be registered with the American Miniature Horse Association (AMHA).  This event will benefit the NMHC’s Miniature Horse Rescue Fund, The Carriage Barn's Therapeutic Riding & Driving Programs, and the New Hampshire Animal Rescue League.
    [more information]

June

  • June 23rd – 27th – Beginner Horsemanship Clinic (Riding) – Introduction to Care & Handling of Horses – For beginners.  No horse experience needed.  For ages 10 to 15.  Space is limited.  Parental supervision is not required. 

July

  • July 14th – 18th – Kids Driving Clinic Week #1 – For Young Beginner students (ages 10 and under) who need to know “everything” there is to know about ponies, horses, and carts.  No previous experience required.  Students will be introduced to harnessing, the history of carriages, and receive driving instruction each day.  Space is limited.  Parental supervision is not required.
     
  • July 21st – 25th – Kids Driving Clinic Week #2 – For Advanced students ages 10 and up that are ready for competition level.  Dana Bright will instruct this week’s clinic.  Mrs. Bright’s carriage driving experiences include competing at Advanced Combined Driving Event Level with single and pair, and at pleasure shows with singles, pairs, and unicom.  She holds “R” cards for pleasure and combined driving, pleasure TD, and dressage with The American Driving Society.  She also judges United States Equestrian Federation pleasure and combined driving shows.  Space is limited.  Parent supervision is not required.
     
  • July 27th – Summer Arena Trial – Divisions for Training, Preliminary, and Advanced levels will be offered.  Ribbons will be awarded to Ponies, Horses, Juniors, and Pairs in each division.

  • July 28th – 30th – Adult Driving Camp – This is a chance to receive concentrated driving instruction – your horse or ours.  Students will receive two lessons each day, plus discussions covering types of harness & carriages, presentation & showing, both CDEs and pleasure shows.  Over lunch & dinner bring those questions you always wanted answers to.  Enjoy three days of driving fun and companionship. INFO        REGISTRATION

August

  • August 10th – Driving Dressage / Cones Day – A great chance to practice driving a Dressage Test in front of a judge.  Entries permitting, Participants may drive a test twice or try two tests, then give the Cones course a try!  This is a perfect way to get ready for the late Summer and early Fall CDEs.

September

  • September 13th – Medieval Faire Fundraiser – Please join us for a day of medieval fun and pageantry while helping support a great cause.  This is the year’s major fundraiser for our Therapeutic Programs.  A great time for all ages, something for everyone to see.  Exhibits, period entertainment, vendors, food, Silent & Penny Auctions and Raffles.  To benefit The Carriage Barn Therapy Programs. [more info]

October

  • October 5th, 12th & 19th – Introduction to Carriage Driving – Group Lessons Sundays from 1 to 4pm. Space is limited so register early. Beginners welcome. Use our trained horses or bring your own.

  • October 25th – Carriage Barn’s Halloween Horse Show – Fun show for The Carriage Barn’s Riding & Therapeutic students with a Fall / Halloween theme.  Prizes awarded for costumed turnout as well as fun events.  To benefit The Carriage Barn’s Therapeutic Programs.
  • October 26th – Halloween Carriage Classic – Open Fun show with a Fall / Halloween theme.  Prizes awarded for costumed turnout as well as fun events.  Divisions may include Pleasure classes, Obstacles, and Halloween Trick or Treat Drive.  To benefit The Carriage Barn’s Therapeutic Programs.

November

  • November (dates TDB) – Driving Clinic with Lisa Singer  –  Ms. Singer’s accomplishments include being two-time Triple Crown of Driving Winner, two times "FEI national pair challenge" trophy winner, seven-time National Pairs Driving Champion, seven-times on the US team for the World Pairs Driving Competition, and Coach of two World Singles and Pony Team World Championships.  Perhaps Ms. Singer’s most lasting achievement has been in connecting this sometimes – thought – elitist sport with a wider world of horse people.  The first woman to win a National Pairs Championship is modest, humorous, easy to talk to, and a wealth of information.  One-on-one lesson format for both days.  Auditors welcome.  Roundtable Dinner with Ms. Singer Saturday evening.

December

 
 

Events / Dates subject to change. Please contact the barn to confirm.

 

Program overviews:

Adult Driving Clinic

July 28th – 30th 9am to 3pm daily

This is your chance to receive concentrated driving instruction -- your horse or ours
No experience needed – a great introduction to the fine art of carriage driving
Enjoy three days of driving fun and companionship
Attendees will receive two driving lessons each day and in addition the clinic will cover:

  1. Types of harness and carriages

  2. Presentation and showing (CDEs & pleasure shows)

  3. Roundtable discussions and Q&A

Attendees must bring their own lunch, beverages, and snacks
Cost of the Clinic is $400 per Driver
A limited number of stalls and accommodations are available

** Make it a Mini Vacation - Come for our Arena Driving Trial on July 27th
and then stay for the Adult Driving Clinic **

The Carriage Barn has a well established riding and driving program for children and adults of all ages.  Our instructors are experienced professionals who possess the ability to work with clients at all levels.  We would be glad to talk to you about your individual needs and goals.

For more information or a registration form, contact The Carriage Barn at 603-378-0140,
email carriage-barn@comcast.net

REGISTRATION

Mystical Knights Medieval Faire Fundraiser

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A One Day Family Fun Event

Performance by the Medieval Friesian Drill Team
Demonstrations in period blacksmithing and archery
Paint your own Breyer Horse
Knighting Ceremonies by Queen Sarah and King Jacob
Bounce Castle and Games of Skill
Knightly Games Competition by the New England Jousting Association
Medieval Sword Fighting Lessons and Puppet Shows
Face Painting
Storytelling
Dog Agility Demo and Take Your Own Dog through the Course, host by the Paws R Us 4-H Club
Period & Modern Vendors & Food
Raffles, Penny & Silent Auctions including both Equine and General Interest Items

(more photos from last year)

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Beginner's Group Driving Course

Know the thrill of holding the reins and controlling a special journey known for centuries.  Learn the fine art of carriage driving in a safe environment.

This course covers all aspects of horse harness, carriage styles and functions as well as ground driving, hitching and carriage driving.  Students will be introduced to various antique and contemporary competition vehicles.

The carriage collection of the Carriage Barn will be available for student use.  Classes will be held each Sunday 1 to 4pm at the Carriage Barn Equestrian Center, 6 Sarah’s Way, Newton, NH.  Enrollment is limited.  No prior horse experience is needed.  Cost is $350 per Driver.

For more information call 603-378-0140 or e-mail us.

[Registration]

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Lisa Singer

Ms. Singer’s accomplishments include being two-time Triple Crown of Driving Winner, two times "FEI national pair challenge" trophy winner, seven-time National Pairs Driving Champion, seven-times on the US team for the World Pairs Driving Competition, and Coach of 2 World Singles and Pony Team World Championships.

Perhaps Ms. Singer’s most lasting achievement has been in connecting this sometimes – thought – elitist sport with a wider world of horse people. The first woman to win a National Pairs Championship is modest, humorous, easy to talk to, and a wealth of information.

The Carriage Barn’s driving clinics have been widely successful over the years; where learning, fun, camaraderie, and great food all add up to a wonderful weekend. Both participants and auditors enjoy learning with Ms. Singer, through her wonderful “Beasties” stories, Morgans with a heart of gold.

[Registration]

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7th Annual Kids Driving Clinic

The week July 21st through 25th is reserved for Advanced Drivers – those ready for competition level.   

Dana Bright will be our instructor for this Advanced Level clinic.  Mrs. Bright spent part of her senior year of high school in England, where she passed the British Horse Society Assistant Instructor’s Exam.  Her educational experiences include a degree in Animal Husbandry from Michigan State, Instructor Certification from the Morven Park International Equestrian Institute, and Internship experiences in eventing with Bruce Davidson.

Mrs. Bright’s carriage driving experiences include competing at Advanced Combined Driving Event Level with single and pair, and at pleasure shows with singles, pairs, and unicom.  She holds “R” cards for pleasure and combined driving, pleasure TD, and dressage with The American Driving Society.  She also judges United States Equestrian Federation pleasure and combined driving shows.

The Carriage Barn values Mrs. Bright’s depth of knowledge, as a gifted instructor and look forward to her working with our Advanced Students. 

This year’s Kids Driving Clinic will have a week just for Young Beginners.

The week of July 14th through 18th is for drivers ages 10 and under, who need to know “everything” there is to know about ponies, horses, and carts.

No previous experience required.  Carriage Barn Junior Counselors and a guest clinician will work on all aspects of driving.  Students will be introduced to harnessing, the history of carriages, and receive driving instruction each day. 

[Registration]

The Carriage Barn salutes the can-do spirit and enthusiasm of all of our “Junior Drivers”. You are the future

We wish to thank all those who have supported our Kids Driving programs in the past, especially the American Driving Society

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Hardy Zantke Driving Clinic

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Hardy Zantke takes his victory round at the Arizona CDE in 2002

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Hardy Zantke driving six for fun in Arizona in 2003

[Registration] [Brochure]

Hardy Zantke has been involved with horses since he was a small boy at his Grandfather’s trucking company after World War II.  The company included a half dozen teams of draft horses, which were more reliable than the trucks of the time.  By the age of 13 he was driving his own team for the company.

Hardy and his wife Jutta, from Torrance, California, are among the top competitors in Combined Driving in the United States with their pair of 17 hand bay Holsteiner geldings. They compete regularly throughout the Western United States and have traveled frequently to the East Coast and Canada to compete. They were first alternate of the U.S. team at the 1993 World Pair Driving Championship in Gladstone, New Jersey with their old pair. The Zantkes are of German origin and import their horses from Germany as three-year-olds and as Hardy does the driving, Jutta trains the horses under saddle in ridden dressage. They now compete with their younger pair, which they have also brought up to Advanced level and are longlisted as Pair Competitor with the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF). At home for local events they have often combined their old with their young pair and driven them four-in-hand and have reached the USET List of Developing Drivers with the team.

Hardy is a retired transportation executive and now Western Representative of Kuehnle Carriages as well as an importer of Holsteiner driving horses.

Hardy & Jutta are also active on the organizational level of driving, as they have helped organize the California Classic Combined Driving Event (CDE) in Southern California for the past sixteen years.  The California Classic is one of the few Advanced Level CDEs in the Western United States. Hardy is a Director of the American Driving Society (ADS) as well as a member of the ADS CDE and Dressage Committees. He is also a member of US Equestrian Federation Driving, as well as Active Drivers' Committees, Driving Technical Committee, and Para Equestrian High Performance Committee. Hardy served as Chef d'Equipe for twelve U.S. Teams since 1996 at World Championships and International Competitions and has helped bring home five medals, including Team Silver with The Four-in-Hands from Jerez in 2002 and Individual Gold for Suzy Stafford from the Pony Worlds in 2005. Hardy is an ADS & USEF "R" licensed Combined Driving Judge and judges all over the country, as well as an International Candidate Driving Judge for the International Paralypmic Driving Committee.

Hardy writes a popular column in "Carriage Driving World" (formerly "Driving West") as well as in the ADS Newsletters, The Wheelhorse and The Whip, and is a contributing writer to the German driving magazine "Pferde Fahren Sport". He gives driving clinics as well as private instructions where he emphasizes Dressage as the basis of all and teaches the Achenbach driving system.

Hardy received the American Driving Society President’s Award for his contributions to driving in 2000.

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Therapeutic Riding Sessions

Go to our Therapeutic Riding/Driving page for more information.

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Frostbite Series Arena Driving

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The three event series will include driven dressage, cones, and obstacles in a one-day format, two in March and one in April (check calendar for exact dates.) Cumulative points from the three shows will be used to award the Frostbite Trophy.

Spectators are cordially invited. Hand warmers will be passed out for the first ten spectators of each event. Any spectator who attends all three driving events will receive one free driving lesson with Carriage Barn staff.

 

[click here for more photos]

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Northeast Miniature Horse Club & Rescue
American Miniature Horse Association Shows

May 24 & 25, 2008

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The Northeast Miniature Horse Club and Rescue (NMHC) will be holding two American Miniature Horse Association pointed shows at the Carriage Barn on Saturday May 24 and Sunday May 25. Stalls will be available for the weekend. Each day will have two AMHA carded judges judging a full schedule of classes including halter, showmanship, obstacle, jumping and driving classes for Open, Amateur, and Youth exhibitors. Included also will be NMHC's unique Mentored Beginner classes, where someone new to showing can enter the ring with a mentor, who will be provided for them if needed. There will also be the very unique and beautiful Liberty class, where Miniature Horses are set free to perform 'at liberty' to specially selected music. Having 4 judges over one weekend gives area exhibitors the chance to earn 4 sets of points toward AMHA World Show qualification, and Honor Roll. This is also the first weekend of the season for club members to accumulate points toward NMHC's Year End Championships.

You do not need to be a member of NMHC to participate in the show, but your horses must be registered with the American Miniature Horse Association (AMHA). We are expecting exhibitors from all over New England and New York to take advantage of the opportunity to show under 4 judges, and we hope to have at least one World Show judge among them.

As always, the Northeast Club show will benefit not only their own Miniature Horse Rescue Fund, but other worthy equine causes. This year The Carriage Barn's Therapeutic Riding & Driving Programs and the New Hampshire Animal Rescue League will share in the profits of the show.

Class Lists and entry forms will be available on the NMHC web site www.northeastminis.org early Spring 2008, or for more information, please feel free to contact president Cindy Moses at mochaminis@comcast.net.

Please support our affiliate program:
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Every time you make a purchase the therapeutic program at the Carriage Barn benefits.
The Carriage Barn 6 Sarah's Way, Newton, New Hampshire, 603-378-0140