Equestrian Vaulting is often described as a combination of dance and gymnastics on a moving horse.
west coast vaulters is home to athletes of all levels, from beginners just here to have fun to those placing top-15in the world.
Dating back to Roman times, Equestrian Vaulting (vaulting) is one of the oldest equestrian disciplines, yet also one of the least-well-known in North America. Despite it's huge popularity in countries such as Germany, where it is the nation's official youth sport, it is only now making major inroads into North America. In Canada, BC and Alberta form the nation's vaulting epicentre and, with over 15 years' of history, West Coast Vaulters (formerly Mt. Arrowsmith) is proud to be a significant presence on the Canadian vaulting scene.
Vaulting is a great way to improve balance and harmony with the horse, improve your riding seat, work with a team, and simply have a great time! Despite its impressive and daring appearance, because the vaulting horses are so well-trained and always controlled by the central lunger, vaulting is actually the safest equestrian sport. You do not need to have any riding, horse, dance, or gymnastics experience to try vaulting, and those of any age 5 and over can participate. All vaulters start at walk and then progress to trot and canter. A stationary 'pretend horse' called a barrel is used to learn moves and improve strength and fitness.
If a vaulter choses to compete, they might do so as an individual or part of a pair or team. All competitions consist of two parts, the compulsory round and the freestyle round. The compulsory round is similar to the old skating 'figures' or gymnastics compulsories, in that it tests each athlete on the same moves, showing harmony, balance, flexibility, strength, and rhythm. The freestyle round, set to music of the vaulter's choice, is where individual personalities shine through to both the judge and audience.
Phone
250.954.9940 [Debbie]
250.228.8880 [Jess]
Location
Parksville, BC
Class Schedule
Classes vary month-to-month. Please visit the calendar for more information. Each week's training comprises a mix of barrel and horse practices to facilitate the progress of both horse and vaulter.