The next generation of elite equestrian athletes will be nurtured in a new high performance riding and coaching program to be run at Charles Sturt University’s (CSU) prestigious Equine Centre.

International equestrian identity, coach and competitor, Heath Ryan, has been engaged to lead the 20-week, full-fee paying course that will be offered twice a year, in autumn and spring, from February 2005. The course will be promoted nationally and internationally to:
 

• Develop the next generation of Olympic gold medalists and industry professionals
• Provide industry access to a formal tertiary education program that enhances career opportunities for athletes in equestrian sport while developing their sporting skills
• Promote international involvement in rider training and coaching that enhances Australia’s and CSU’s position as major players in the global equestrian industry.

At the completion of the course, students will receive a Certificate in Equestrian Instruction from CSU, the National Coaching Accreditation Scheme (NCAS) Level 1 Certificate and a First Aid Certificate plus credit toward any further equestrian study at CSU. The course is based around the internationally recognised NCAS Level 1 Equestrian Coaching syllabus.

The University is currently recruiting staff to work with Heath Ryan and existing CSU staff in this exciting project. 

The program will be residential, with students accommodated at the University’s Wagga Wagga Campus. The horses will be housed at the nearby Equine Centre. 

The CSU equestrian facilities include indoor and outdoor arenas, a warm up arena, a 1200 metre gallop track, a cross-country course with fences from introductory to advanced level, 86 stables, turn out paddocks, a high speed treadmill and horse walker. 

Subjects for the Equestrian Instructor’s Certificate include Riding Development, Equestrian Coaching, Equestrian Business and Horse Management. 

Further information about Equine Studies at CSU is available at: Equine Studies.