Overnight Programs - Flying

Over the past few years we have embarked on numerous trips, each with their own adventures and special memories.

Each trip was lead by one staff member, and an experienced Leadership assistant. Group members started meeting months ahead of the trip date to plan their adventure. Participants were involved in almost all aspects of the trip planning process and helped to select the locations, meals, itinerary, and route plan.

The trips were geared towards the current participants in the lesson and lease program. It allowed a unique experience where participants venture out on a trip with horses and people they already know and are familiar with. Due to the familiarity between staff, participants, and horses, the trips were designed to be more appropriate for the abilities and goals of all those involved.

Due to the unique design of the program the rates had seemed some what higher than other summer activities. However, if compared on a daily average the rates were very competitive with local and national programs. All rates include time spent at trip planning meetings, as well as as all groceries, meals, fuel, camping fees, and other expenses associated with the trip. Another consideration was the group extremely small group size, and emphasis on individual attention. Participants were encouraged to bring some spending money for personal items such as post cards, gifts, and replacing items that are left at home.

Voyager

Participants started meeting 9 months before their trip to help plan their week. Participants selected their destination, as well as assisted in planning and shopping for their meals, activities, and itinerary.

The 2004 trip visited Los Angeles, California, and spent the week touring some well known and unknown gems in the greater Los Angeles area. Our stops included The Lot film studio, Champion Turf and Equipment, Historic Olavero Street, China Town, Saddle Ranch, Billy Martin's, Los Angeles Equestrian Facility, Griffith Park, Sunset Stables, Cavalia, Universal City Walk, Mann's Chinese Theatre, Rodeo Drive, Hollywood & Highland, In-N-Out Burgers, Bob's Big Boy, Midieval Times, and more! To wind down 2004 and kick of 2005 the group spent New Years eve at Disneyland! The trip was a ton of fun and adventure!

The 2005 Voyager trip took us off to sunny and DRY Orlando, Florida. Some of our destinations included Arabian Nights, Medieval Times, Miami, Disney World, Key West, South Beach, and a Lippazanner Extranvaganza. In order to kick in the New Year with style we spent New Years Eve at Disneyworld!

Other options for future trips were: Hawaii (tour of Pearl Harbor and Diamond Head; Swimming with dolphins; a day at Parker Ranch; Hiking the rainforests); Calgary (tour of the PMU barns; attend the Calgary Stampede; visit the Edmonton Mall; stay overnight at the Flying U Ranch); Texas (the Alamo, AQHA head quarters, APHA headquarters, Six Flags, etc.).

Participants had a chance to visit world famous equestrian events and facilities, and gain exposure to other components of the horse industry. Depending on the destination that had been selected there may be less equestrian events and more adventure activities. Some locations were very limited when looking for horse related events. There was extra responsibility placed on each group member, and helped to create a very unique and rewarding experience. This trip was be led by one staff person, assisted by one counselor, and included four participants.

Globetrotter

Participants started meeting 16 months before their trip to help plan their adventure. Destinations were selected for their historical and cultural importance, and the presence of unique equestrian locations. The 2006 trip idea was a tour of Portugal, Spain, France, and a visit to the 2006 Winter Olympics in Italy. Locations in France and Spain had been identified due to their rich equestrian history and cultural significance. Participants had an amazing experience to encounter new places, cultures, and ideas with a small group of friends. This trip was to be led by one staff person. The number of assistants and group size was to be determined at a later time.

Specialty

You pick the date, the people, the location, and we would bring the adventure! If you were looking for something different on a day off of school, spring break, winter break, or any other time this may have been the option for you. This was also a great opportunity for adults to put together their own trips.