Rosewood Equestrian Program

Begun in 2002, Rosewood's Horse Therapy Program is one of only a handful of fully-certified North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA) programs in the state. Located at the Rosewood Ranch near Pawnee Rock, Kansas, the program provides the opportunity for clients to work, ride and enjoy horses in a beautiful country setting.

Rosewood Ranch provides a unique place for individuals to enhance self-awareness and self-esteem, as well as for setting, meeting and exceeding goals. Individuals involved in the Horse Therapy program are actively involved in the life of the Ranch, including naming the various foals born each year. It employs a full-time NARHA-Certified Instructor, in addition to full-time ranch staff. The Ranch also serves as a “home away from home” for individuals during various recreational activities, parties and other events.

Participants work year-round to perfect their riding skills in preparation for the Rosewood Rodeo, held each year in October.  The Rodeo showcases the remarkable strides each person has made throughout the year. The Rodeo is a wonderful time to celebrate achievement in various events, including Horsemanship, Flags, Keyhole Races, Barrels, Pole Bending and Trail Competition.

The benefits of therapeutic riding are many: 

• Physical

• Psychological

• Functional

• Educational

 Hammond and his staff of experienced instructors help riders hone their skills year round.  Riders really shine in competitions and members of our Advanced Class are earning top honors in events sponsored by the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA), Kansas Quarter Horse Association (KQHA) and the South Central Stock Horse Association (SCSHA).   

Rosewood’s Therapeutic Riding Program earned a prestigious “America’s Horse Cares” American Quarter Horse     Foundation grant to help expand the program.  The program has grown so much that the Annual Rodeo is now                held in the Indoor Arena of the Expo Center complex west of Great Bend!