HORSES. LEADERSHIP.
Wrangler-In-Training (WIT) is two-week program designed for those who have completed the 9th grade. WIT applicants must also have completed the Trail Blazer riding level at Camp Chief Ouray (or those with equivalent skill). WIT’s will focus on leadership, team building and cooperation in a horse-related setting. Participants will also develop their horse knowledge, and complete a community service project.
Prerequisite: Know how to groom, bridle, saddle, and control the horse at a walk, trot and canter.
This program involves an application and selection process that requires initiative and dedication from the camper. Steps of the application include submitting a letter of recommendation (for applicants who have not completed a prior Leadership Training Program), completing a set of supplemental questions, and a phone interview with the CCO Leadership and Trips Director.
Click here for dates and availability
ITINERARY
Sunday: Campers arrive, icebreakers, ROWDIE campfire
Monday: Teambuilding, trip preparation
Tuesday-Friday: A horsepack trip in State Forest State Park near Gould, CO with one of our outfitters, Red Feather Guides.
Saturday: Rest day, trail ride, learn more about personal leadership style and CCO barn practices
2nd week: WITs are at the barn for all activity sessions learning from our wranglers how to handle horses, facilitate activities safely, help campers improve their own skills, and improve their own horsemanship skills. WITs also have the opportunity to lead our challenger night where they teach 13-14 year-old campers about CCO’s Leadership Training Programs and then facilitate a game. WITs also do a service project at the National Sports Center for the Disabled (NSCD) riding center, located on YMCA of the Rockies property.
Weekend camp is available after odd-numbered sessions. If your camper is planning on participating in another program directly before or after their WIT session, please check to see that weekend camp is available.
Interested? Have more questions? Contact the office at chiefouray@ymcarockies.org or call 970-887-2648.
Mission: YMCA of the Rockies puts Christian principles into practice through programs, staff and facilities in an environment that builds a healthy spirit, mind and body for all.
Our goal is to offer challenging experiences to build leaders through life-long skill development in a safe, imaginative, natural setting. We instill confidence through independence and interpersonal skills. We challenge our campers to discover their true selves.
CARING | HONESTY | RESPECT | RESPONSIBILITY | FAITH