2027 Clinic Registration
The Independent Trail Obstacle Challenge
August 28 & 29, 2027
Springmaid Mountain Resort • Spruce Pine, NC
LIMITED TO 12 PARTICIPANTS
Reserve Your Spot
Deposit Due Today: $100
Total Clinic Fee: $275
Competition Entry: $40 per horse
2 Days
12 Participants
All Levels Welcome
Outdoor Arena
Building Confidence Out on Your Own
The fourth annual Independent Trail Obstacle Challenge returns to Springmaid Mountain Resort in Spruce Pine, NC. This weekend is about the relationship between you and your horse when you are out on your own, and how clearly you communicate when the pressure is on. The clinic is open to all levels and limited to 12 participants.
Day one starts in the arena with work on relationship, balance, and communication. In the afternoon, you take your horse out and work through three field obstacles on your own (the river is not part of the course). Day two is the independent trail competition, judged on a rubric that scores how confidently each obstacle is handled and how well the relationship holds up.
If you do not feel ready to compete after day one, you are welcome to keep working through the obstacles instead. You may bring more than one horse. Divisions are 2 to 3 year olds, 4 to 6 year olds, and 7 and up.
What You'll Work On
Arena work on relationship, balance, and communication
Handling field obstacles on your own
Staying clear and calm when the pressure is on
Building confidence for you and your horse
Get the Event T-Shirt
The official Independent Trail Obstacle Challenge t-shirt is available for this event.
Countdown to the Clinic
At a Glance
Dates
August 28 & 29, 2027 • 2 Days
Location
Springmaid Mountain Resort, 2171 Henredon Rd, Spruce Pine, NC 28777
Participant Fee
$275
Competition Entry: $40 per horse (paid to RPH)
Deposit Due at Registration
$100 is required to reserve your spot.
Balance Due
July 29, 2027
Event Contact
Lee Hardin
Phone: 828-773-6075
Additional Facility Fees
Facility Fee: $40 for both days (paid at the barn)
Stall Fee: $25 per night inside, $15 per night outside (paid at the barn)
Bring your own shavings, hay, and feed.
Cabins and Campsites: Booked through the Springmaid Mountain office at 828-765-2353. Include your trailer size for campsites.
Audit Fee: FREE!
Creating clarity for both horse and human.
How to Register
1. Complete Registration
Provide participant details and make a payment.
2. Sign Liability Release
Complete and sign the RPH liability release form.
3. Receive Confirmation
You'll receive a confirmation email and text.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is your clinic cancellation policy?
We understand that plans change. Here's how clinic cancellations work:
- 30 or more days before the clinic: Full refund, minus the deposit (non-refundable).
- 8 to 29 days before the clinic: 75% refund of the remaining balance. The deposit is non-refundable.
- 7 days or less before the clinic: No refund available.
To cancel, please contact your clinic host.
When are clinic fees due?
A non-refundable deposit is required at the time of registration to secure your spot. The remaining balance is due 30 days before the clinic. You will receive an email with an invoice for the remaining balance 45 days prior to the clinic date.
How do I pay my remaining balance?
We’ll send you an email and text 45 days prior to the clinic with a link to complete your remaining payment.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes, if you’d like to discuss getting on a payment plan for a clinic, please contact us.
Are there any additional fees involved?
Yes, additional fees may apply, including facility fees, stall fees, camping fees, or audit fees. These are paid directly to the clinic host upon arrival.