What is the point of horse riding lessons?

[lljkk]

Please try to take this light-heartedly...

DD just started lessons. Other "Fun" things are FAR cheaper. Other organised activities I see the point: it's varied and social and fun (skating, Brownies), it's a valuable life skill (swimming) or there are obvious ways to measure improvement (Judo grading, music exams).

But horse riding... meh, it's not like she's got a goal to work for or even a friend's pony she could occasionally borrow. It's not an essential life skill or even one she's likely to ever use much.

So, you horsey lovers, can you persuade me to think differently?

Oh, I loved when I was a child and amd now thinking about getting back into it. It is very exhilarating and gives you a huge sense of freedom - hacking in the countryside is the best way to enjoy the great outdoors in my opinion, you see so much more from horseback and you cover more ground faster. And it helps develop responsibility, as you are responsible for the care of a living creature when you are riding. It was my favourite hobby, despite the fact I never had a pony. Completely hooked from the age of seven, after riding a pony on the beach.

Just further to the previous points I'd also say that it is really easy to get a job working with horses and if she is keen it can be really fulfilling. There are now lots of equine courses at colleges or she could go to the British Racing School if she fancies getting into racing (they guarantee a job at the end of 6 month course). Alternatively she could go on to Polo, Dressage, Show Jumping, etc. If she has it in her blood and is really keen the sky is the limit.

I'm currently working in Singapore for the international horse races this weekend having just been to horse shows at home on Saturday and Sunday - with horses anything is possible.