HSA History

An organized system of training riding instructors was developed in 1964 at Hoofbeat Ridge by School and Camp founders, Betty Bennett and the late John Bennett. To staff their riding programs which serviced as many as 450 youth weekly, instructors needed to teach a safe and systematic approach to horsemanship.

As the reputation for the training program grew, instructors from other areas attended. The incorporation of HSA followd in 1978. Certified instructors and clinicians now teach in many states and have earned recognition for their high standards.

Although the initial thrust was to teach instructors, HSA, through the years expanded its mission to include other issues and concerns relating to safety among equestrians.

HSA clinics are endorsed by Wisconsin State Horse Council. Approved by ACA, AMEA, and NSC. In 1985 HSA received the National Safety Council's Community Safety Award for Exemplary Public Safety.

...About The Horsemanship Safety Association, Inc.

HSA is involved in a continuous awareness campaign to educate the public about horse safety through articles in equine and general consumer publications.

Clinics offered through HSA provide credentials among employers who are concerned about safety, risk, insurance claims, and lawsuits over injuries and negligence.

Train documentation and certification is now required by many riding schools, stables, and summer camps.

The legal value of certification enhances protection of riding instructors and management should there be litigation.