Winter Riding Program to start at GC fairgrounds

MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Fairgrounds will offer an option for horse owners who want to keep riding through the winter, but not in wintry conditions.

The Winter Riding Program for Individuals begins Monday and continues through February at the fairgrounds, 3953 Airway Dr. NE.

Riders will use the Ardell or Harwood pavilions, depending on maintenance requirements and whether the pavilions are rented for events. Open riding hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Cost is $45 per month per person.

Since the location may change, fairgrounds officials will have signs directing riders to the proper venue. Open riding is allowed only in the pavilions, not in the rodeo arena.

Riders must fill out an application and waivers before riding, which are available online. Those must be submitted to the fairgrounds office during regular business hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Online registration is also available. Riders must submit proof their horses have current vaccinations and are in good health.

Riders are restricted to two horses, and one in the arena at any given time. Horses that aren’t being ridden must be tied up outside the pavilion.

Lessons, whether private or group lessons, are not allowed during open riding. Events like pole bending and barrel racing are prohibited as well.

Dogs are not allowed inside the pavilions.

Riders are asked to pick up any litter, close the gates and keep the pavilions clean.

The facilities will be closed Nov. 24-29, Dec. 23-26 and Dec. 31-Jan. 2.

For more information and forms, visit www.gcfairgrounds.com/p/rentals/open-riding.