Knollwood summer is very different than summers of the past, and we’re figuring it out as we go.As a matter of fact, our Covid protocols are starting to feel like they’ve always been there.

We’re so excited to have riders back in the barn, and the horses are too. Our ‘regular’ helper staff is back, with sanitization direction from the super helpers.

Private lessons have been running, and on July 1 we started to teach new riders and Tiny Tots again. These riders wear masks while they ride, as does their instructor, as they’re in such close communication. Even with the masks on, we can still see the smiles on the new riders.

We’ve started a couple of new programs for our new riders, as well.

Sunday afternoon mini camps are a wonderful way to introduce new riders to horses. Horse lovers come to Knollwood from noon until 4, and with the help of their instructor and personal assistant, they learn to groom, lead, tack, and work safely around horses. They finish their camp session with a ride and a photo op for their parents, Mini camps are only $59, and are selling out fast.

The first week of the month is for riders 7-17, the second Sunday of the month is for Tiny Tot riders aged 4-6, and the third week is for new adult riders. You can purchase mini camps online, though we recommend you call first to check availability.

We’ve also started a small beginner group program we’re calling ‘Welcome to Knollwood.’ This four week beginner session meets on Monday nights at 6:30, and is a relaxed introduction to riding and working with horses. Our first session sold out, and are currently booking the August session. It’s a steal at $99.

We’re in the middle of our second week of pattern camp, and are working with 9 of our academy stars showing at Summerfun this week. These Knollwood Kids are working hard but still finding plenty of time to goof off with water fights and games on the school horses.

Next week, we start the first week of our sold out summer riding school, We’re excited to test out our safety protocols with a full camp, and are looking forward to seeing helpers back at work with the new riders. Great thanks to Mr Berget for building us our 2 new outdoor handwashing stations!!

Almost ALL of our show horses are currently at Wisconsin State Fair Park waiting for the ASAW Summerfun show to start tomorrow. Our lesson horses will be joining them Friday night after they’re finished with camp.

Both the show and academy horses have competed at one show so far this year, but Summerfun is our ‘home’ show, where most of us get to sleep in our own beds.

It will have a different feel this year, with waivers, wristbands, and masks, and we’re all so grateful to show manager and ASAW President Vicky Holston for all her hard work and negotiations to make sure this show happened for all of us.  The show wouldn’t have happened without her tenacity and her team of hard working horse people.

Academy riders, don’t forget to turn in your waivers by Friday if you’d like us to get your wristband for Saturday! And remember, wristbands and masks are required to get into the arena.

What’s Coming Up?

Car Wash and Brat Shack Sales

Sunday, July 19

11:00- 3:00 PM

The Knockouts are once again washing cars and selling brats at the Hartland Piggly Wiggly.  We had a blast last year, and raised a lot of money for the Knockouts. Here’s a link to the Sign Up Genius.  We’d love to see all members there to support the club.

Mid America Signature Show

Roscoe, Illinois

July 24-26

Both show and academy horses will be competing in the BIG outdoor ring in Roscoe.

IASPHA Summer Show

Gurnee, Illinois

July 31 – August 2

Both show and academy horses will be competing at one of our favorite shows!

Knockout Meeting and Parents Night Out

Saturday, August 15

Knollwood Farm

Join us for the club meeting, and stay for Parents Night Out. We’ll be playing games, eating dinner, and having a water fight, weather permitting. Signups start soon!

Knollwood Summer Show

August 22-23

Knollwood Farm

Join us for a retooled event. We’re planning on showing in the big outside ring on Saturday, and we’re working on some other updates. Stay tuned!

See you at the barn.

It feels to good to say that!!