I've just moved to Basel and after a 6 year delay, I think its about time I got back on a horse. In the process of moving into an apartment etc. but I was thinking about starting lessons within the next month [end of October ish?]. I was wondering if anyone would like to join forces and arrange group lessons at PSZ Binningen ? Research so far tells me this is the best place for lessons and the instructors speak English. It would be a nice way to meet people, save some cash etc.
If anyone has useful info/any other suggestions, do share
I am a dressage rider/ eventing rider and I have found another great farm. I had a hard time getting in touch with the PSZ Binningen Farm. (I called and left messages and Alexandra never called me back... hopefully you will have better luck. I have heard she is a great instructor.)
To make a long story short, I have found a FANTASTIC FARM! Felix Graf is WONDERFUL! I have loved my lessons with him. He does jumping and dressage. His English is excellent and he has a wonderful sense of humor and is a fantastic instructor. (He will kick your tail... in a great way!) You can drive or take the #10 Tram. The farm is amazing! They have two indoor arenas and a HUGE outdoor arena. I have enjoyed every lesson there. The horses that I have ridden are beyond amazing. If you are looking for a great farm, give Felix a call!
At first we were satisfied, too. I did not specifically wished that they hold the lesson in English, my daughter took a private lesson (30 minutes) and I translated from swiss german (we are Hungarian).
As she is an advanced rider and 30 minutes is just enough for her to start sweating I asked if she could go take group lessons.
1 hour private lesson = 100 chf, 1 hour group lesson = 32 CHF and unfortunately we are not (yet) millionairs.
After that she had to take another private lesson but this time we got a very unwilling lecturer. The lesson was cut short, several riders walked into the area although the covered place is huge.
I addressed my comments gently - no change.
Then I wrote an e-amil to them with my concerns. I got a call from Felix and he promised me everything will be ok.
Then she received a group lesson from Martina. 5 riders all together, the worst swiss german ever, she did not even introduce herself and at the end she advised her to go to a lower level group because her lack of language skills . Not because Martina lacks communication skills.
So now I look for a place where at least my daughter can ride a minimum of 1 hour, where the lecturer is willing to communicate, understands the initial difficulties and can deal with youngsters as well.
Hi .... I've not been horse riding for over twelve years, but would love to start up again. If you have any luck with the farms, please let me know, as I'd be interested in joining in a group lesson if we can get one sorted out ...
Soleil: Sorry to hear your experience wans't great with the Graf farm... unfortunately I think most places are hit or miss when it comes to instructors. Hopefully we can find somone who enjoys teaching youngsters and is willing to put in the time
Bethli:Welcome! Its been far too long since I last rode either, glad to have you here
I was thinking of paying a visit in person to PSZ Binningen this weekend if anyone is interested in joining - it would be good to talk to them in person and get a feel for the place, as well as the commute (I will take the tram/bus)... unfortunately distance + pricelist at the Graf stables is a bit much for me.
Last weekend was just brilliant at Binningen. My daughter cannot move a limb!
It was a fully packed hour for her. After that she was offered to join a group class - 3 times cheaper then private class and I do not have to translate that much as she can follow the others.
We are going there again this Saturday and now mummy dares to ride a wild wild horse!
I have not ridden since May so I will take half hours for a month or so.
In case you want to join us - we are driving from the south and we can pick you up at the tram station.