Horseback Riding

This sport was added in November 2009.

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Explain five safety precautions for when you are near a horse.
  2. With help from an experienced horse handler, demonstrate how to safely mount and ride a horse and then how to safely dismount the horse.
  3. Go on a supervised horseback ride for at least 20 minutes. Wear an approved helmet (such as one approved for horseback riding by the ASTM, or American Society for Testing and Materials).

Sports Pin

Earn the Horseback Riding belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Learn about three famous horses. Explain why these horses were well-known.
  2. Using pictures of these different animals, explain to your den or family the difference between a horse, pony, mule, and donkey.
  3. Explain how a horse is measured and what a “hand” equals when measuring a horse.
  4. Using a picture, point out these main parts of a horse: forehead, muzzle, mane, withers, point of hip, knee, hoof, and root of tail.
  5. Describe three different breeds of horses and explain what feature makes each breed special.
  6. Using photos or pictures you have drawn,explain to your den or family at least three different ways that horses can help us.
  7. Name five things healthy for a horse’s diet.
  8. Tell why it is important to wear an approved riding helmet when you go horseback riding.
  9. Photograph or draw a picture of the saddle you used for the ride you took to earn the belt loop./li>
  10. With your parent or adult partner, visit a veterinarian who cares for horses. Write the answers to three questions you ask him or her.
  11. Spend at least 15 minutes before and after your ride getting to know your horse by talking calmly to it and stroking it slowly.
  12. Go on a supervised horseback ride for at least 30 minutes. Dress appropriately and show that you can safely mount and dismount the horse.