Youth ages 10-18 are invited to attend a clinic sponsored by the Shoshone Back Country Horsemen. The free clinic will be held May 6, from 9 a.m.-noon at the Boot and Bottle Club, 69 Southfork Rd, Cody.

The clinic, Developing Communication and Trail Skills will involve a series of rotations. In the first station, youth will introduce their horses to a variety of obstacles. Back Country Horsemen volunteers will help the horses and riders learn to successfully and safely navigate obstacles similar to those found on the trail.

“Building trust between the horse and rider with the use of obstacles is very important so the two learn to work confidently as a team,” Ron Ostrom, Wyoming P.O.S.T. instructor said. “Safer horses make safer riders.”

In the second station, Alex Whisler, a Double Dan certified trainer, will demonstrate the principles of Liberty Training. This type of horsemanship engages the horse physically and mentally while working completely at liberty, free of all tack and equipment.

“Liberty work is a lot of fun for the horse,” Alex said, “because he chooses to work with you. This builds a bond which later carries over to other disciplines.”

In the third interactive station, SBCH volunteers will teach the principle of Leave No Trace ethics and the basics of trail courtesy. Leave No Trace is a set of seven principles which guides participants in responsible use to conserve the backcountry.

After all the participants have rotated through the stations, lunch will be served. The clinic is made possible through The Shoshone Back Country Horsemen and the generosity of David Rael and Sunlight Sports. Space is limited. For more information or to register call Cathy Ringler (307) 645-3255. Registration closes May 3, 2023.