Equestrian Games: Magazine Race

Every home has one thing in common: that old stash of magazines which lie there in the corner gathering dust. Well, this game proves old paper can still be put to good use. Whether it's Good Housekeeping, Redbook, or petrified 1950s catalogs, they are vital to this relay race. This activity builds a rider's awareness of herself, the horse, and one's surroundings. Reflexes, balance, and riding finesse improve. Dismounting, and mounting skills grow, while teamwork cohesion strengthens. This game is aimed towards advanced beginners, or intermediate riders.

This activity can be done in teams or pitching single players against one another. A timer can add an extra element of gaminess to the 'event'. Before beginning, riders need to make sure their mounts are not afraid of flapping paper. During the activity the reins should be taken over the horses head, and held in one hand in order to retain control over the animal. In their rush, riders must be careful not to snag an ear, or get tangled in the reins. If there are volunteers available, they should hold the reins for the rider during the dismount portion of the race.

Divide the riders into even teams, and line them up on one side of the arena. The magazines should be placed on the opposite end of the enclosure, preferably on a barrel, or mounting block. Placing it one the ground can lead to painful lower backs later on! The 'starter' announces a starting page number, how the paper is to be held, and gives the signal.

Both riders mount, take off, and dismount once they reach the magazine. They need to flip to the correct page, tear it at the seam, mount back up, and ride to the finish line. The next person mounts up, takes off, and repeats the process. The first team to have everyone finish wins. If at any time the page is dropped, the rider needs to dismount, pick it up, and remount.