Learn to Ride Horses with Central Oregon Riding Academy

A Pathway of Confidence, Connection & Character

At Central Oregon Riding Academy (CORA), we believe that learning to ride is more than mastering the saddle — it’s a journey of self-development through the horse. Every interaction is an opportunity to grow in patience, leadership, communication, and self-awareness.

We view horsemanship as a partnership built on trust, understanding, and consistency. The lessons taught in the barn reach far beyond riding — they shape character, build confidence, and teach young people responsibility and respect. Our goal is to create riders who are not only skilled in technique but grounded in integrity and empathy.

To help students and parents see measurable progress, CORA developed the Horsemanship Achievement Program — a clear, five-level certification system that celebrates milestones and encourages lifelong learning.

Each level blends technical riding skills, independent horsemanship, and personal growth, allowing every student to progress at their own pace while maintaining accountability and purpose.

Riders advance through the following stages:

🐴 Level 1 – The Foundation Rider
Focus: Safety • Awareness • Respect
Students learn the essentials — grooming, leading, tacking, mounting, and understanding horse behavior.
🎖 Achievement: “Foundation Rider” Certificate

🐎 Level 2 – The Confident Communicator
Focus: Communication • Balance • Understanding
Students refine rhythm, softness, and clear cues while developing confidence and timing.
🎖 Achievement: “Confident Communicator” Certificate

🦄 Level 3 – The Connected Partner
Focus: Partnership • Feel • Consistency
Students build deeper relationships with their horses through feel, body awareness, and responsibility.
🎖 Achievement: “Connected Partner” Certificate

🐆 Level 4 – The Developing Leader
Focus: Leadership • Responsibility • Mentorship
Riders take initiative in caring for their horses, mentoring others, and journaling their progress.
🎖 Achievement: “Developing Leader” Certificate

🐉 Level 5 – The Empowered Horseman
Focus: Mastery • Awareness • Legacy
Students demonstrate independence, problem-solving, and grace — becoming role models within the CORA community.
🎖 Achievement: “Empowered Horseman” Certificate & Medal

At CORA, we believe that what riders learn in lessons becomes permanent through independent practice.
While lessons provide guidance, practice builds feel, timing, and awareness — transforming instruction into instinct.

“Lessons build knowledge. Practice builds wisdom.”
 

Every dedicated student is encouraged to take two lessons per week and two additional practice rides to apply and strengthen what they’ve learned. This balance creates confident, capable horsemen who grow in skill and understanding.

For students returning after time away, CORA offers a complimentary consultation ride. This allows us to evaluate your current skills, rebuild your confidence, and ensure you are placed in the correct level and tier before continuing your journey in the Achievement Program.

We believe in meeting every rider where they are — guiding them toward their next level of success with clarity and purpose.

At Central Oregon Riding Academy, our mission is simple: to develop confident, compassionate horsemen who ride with purpose and lead with heart. Whether you’re at the beginning of your journey or returning to continue it, CORA is where growth meets grace — and where every ride brings you closer to your best self.

At Central Oregon Riding Academy, our community is built on dedication, growth, and genuine connection — with both horses and people. We’re more than a place to take lessons; we’re a family of riders who share a commitment to learning, practicing, and developing true horsemanship.

Here, every rider is encouraged to take ownership of their journey — to show up, work hard, and support others along the way. We value consistency, integrity, and the willingness to grow, both in and out of the saddle.

Our barn is a space where encouragement replaces competition, where effort is celebrated, and where riders learn that success isn’t just about ribbons — it’s about progress, partnership, and personal responsibility.

Whether you’re advancing through our certification levels, preparing for your first show, or simply working to strengthen your connection with your horse, you’ll find a community that celebrates your dedication and cheers you on every step of the way.

CORA is where commitment turns into confidence, and confidence into community.