The annual Barn Riders tryouts took place at the W.K. Kellogg Arabian Horse Center last week, giving students with or without horseriding experience the opportunity to work closely with the famed Arabian horses.
Barn Riders provides a hands-on experience and exposure to the general care, training, conditioning and the fundamentals of horsemanship.
With over 80 Arabian horses occupying the stables and pastures located along Kellogg Drive, the horse center is always in need of help.
The tryouts took place Oct. 8 and 9 and consisted of about 30 students.
"There was a very good turnout this year," said Mark Stinson, head horse trainer at the Arabian Horse Center.
Those who made the cut have the task of riding assigned horses on scheduled days in order to ensure all horses at the center are given an adequate amount of exercise.
Stinson said all levels of riding experience are welcome.
"The best thing to do is come down [to the center] and get involved and learn about horses in a safe and friendly environment," said Stinson.
Dana Messmore, a first-year student, attended the tryouts. "I just want to ride because I can't go home and ride," said Messmore. "I love Arabians and I want to get involved with the Arabian Horse Center."
Other volunteer opportunities available through the center include Foal Watch, the Intercollegiate Horse Team, the Arabian Mounted Drill Team and the Rodeo Team.
Horse shows will take place on the first Sunday of every month at 2 p.m. through May.
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