FAQ

Western Riders is a group of equestrians with a common goal of promoting an interest in western horses and western horsemanship among the people in our locality. We strive to promote good citizenship in all members, both young and old! We a fun group open to ALL disciplines, skill levels, and age riders!

There are many perks to becoming a member of Western Riders of Virginia! As a member, you are welcome to utilize our grounds and riding arena for no additional fee during non-show days! Come practice barrels and poles, practice hauling young horses off the property, meet up with friends for some ride time and a picnic! WRV hosts multiple member-only events throughout the year, and we have a members-only Facebook group where you can connect with friends. We welcome you!

No, we are a show grounds and riding club only. We do not teach lessons, nor board horses on the grounds.

Aside from unlimited arena usage, new friendships and community, there are more perks to becoming a member! WRV also gives away not just one, but TWO saddles to the year end champions in the youth and open divisions. There are also awards to nominated members displaying good sportsmanship and horsemanship throughout the show season. Only members are eligible for all of these awards!

We currently offer barrel racing, speed pole (a single pole set up for peewees only), pole bending, and Texas barrel events.

• Pole Bending – The pattern will consist of six poles with each one set 21 feet apart to maneuver through.  The first pole is set at 21 feet from the starting line.  A horse and rider can begin to either the left or the right of the poles.  Knocking over a pole shall carry a 5-second penalty. If a horse breaks the timer line at any point before the pattern is completed, the pattern will be considered broken and contestant will receive a no time. Failure to follow the course shall receive a no-time.
• Texas Barrels – The pattern consists of three barrels set up in a straight line with each barrel set 35 feet apart.  The first barrel is set 35 feet from the starting line.  You can start at either the right side or the left side of the barrels. If a horse breaks the timer line at any point before the pattern is completed, the pattern will be considered broken and contestant will receive a no time.  Knocking over a barrel shall carry a 5-second penalty.  Failure to follow the course shall receive a no-time.
• Barrel Racing – The pattern will consist of three barrels in a triangular “cloverleaf” pattern.  The direction can be either one barrel to the right with two to the left, or one barrel to the left with two to the right.  The pattern must meet the following conditions: a) distance from 1^st barrel to timing line and the distance from the 2^nd barrel to timing line are equal; and b) distance from the 1^st barrel to the 3^rd barrel and the distance from the 2^nd barrel to the 3^rd barrel are equal. If a horse breaks the timer line at any point before the pattern is completed, the pattern will be considered broken and contestant will receive a no time.  Knocking over a barrel shall carry a 5-second penalty.  Failure to follow the course shall receive a no-time.

The show schedule will be announced no later than February 28 of the current show season. Keep an eye on our Calendar of Events or our Facebook page for show dates to be released.

Western, English, Dressage….. We welcome ALL disciplines here at Western Riders! We do NOT permit bareback riding.

We encourage members to utilize the arena to ride on non-show days! Members are welcome to use the barrels and poles for practice, but please remember to put all the equipment away when you’re done! While practicing, we ask that you please DO NOT set the barrels on the stakes. They need to be placed either further up or behind the normal patterns to avoid ruts forming in the arena footing. Gate must be locked when you exit the property.

Western Riders shows are not the only thing happening at WRV! We also host Virginia Cowboy Association shows, fun shows, clinics, and the arena and clubhouse are available for rental for private events as well!

Yes, you can! E-mail WRofVA@gmail.com for more information.