Clinic Details & Registration
The Independent Trail Challenge Competition
August 29 & 30, 2026
Springmaid Mountain Resort - 2171 Henredon Rd, Spruce Pine, NC 28777
Strengthen Your Relationship, Check Your Skills, Compete.
This is the 3rd annual RPH Trail Obstacle Competition and is designed to bridge the gaps between group trail riding, riding out alone, and a trail competition. Day one will take place in the arena, with opportunities for riders to head out alone with their horse (without crossing the river) to try three obstacles. Participants can make these trips as they feel ready, allowing them to identify skills that need improvement and build confidence before competition day. If a rider does not feel ready to compete after the first day, they are welcome to continue working through the obstacles in the same format as day one. Participants may bring more than 1 horse.
Day 1 (AM Session) - Arena Fundamentals
Start in the arena focusing on what will matter most—relationship, feel, straightness, balance, and clear communication. You’ll work on the skills needed for precision obstacle work and confidently riding away from the herd.
Day 1 (PM Session) - Ride Out & Problem Solve
Take those skills out of the arena and into the field. Riders will navigate three obstacles while riding independently, giving them the chance to identify holes, work through challenges, and gain real-world experience before the competition.
Day 2 - The Independent Trail Challenge
Put it all together in a full trail competition. Riders will independently navigate a trail obstacle course and be judged by a rubric designed by Robbie and their ability to confidently handle each obstacle while keeping the relationship with the horse intact.
There will be three divisions for horses in the competition:
- 2 to 3 yr. olds
- 4 to 6 yr. olds
- 7+ yr. olds
Event Details
Limited to 12 Participants
Outdoor Arena
Stalls: There are stalls available for rent.
Meals: Please bring a bagged lunch; water will be provided.
Facilities: Restrooms on-site.
Accommodations: There are cabin rentals and campsites available.
Event Contact
Event Fees
Facility, stall, and paddock fees will be collected upon arrival at the barn.
Stall and paddock reservations are made with Robbie Potter Horsemanship. If you have any questions, please contact Lee Hardin.
1-Day Clinic Fee: $275 (paid to RPH)
*A $100 deposit is required to reserve a spot. Balance is due 30 days before the clinic.Competition Fee: $40 per horse (paid to RPH)
Audit Fee: No Charge!
Facility Fee: $40 for both days (paid at the barn upon arrival)
Stalls: Inside Stalls - $25 per night | Outside Stalls - $15 per night (paid at the barn upon arrival) Please plan to bring your own shavings, hay, and feed. We ask that stalls are left clean and as you found them. If you’d prefer not to clean your stall, a one-time $10 cleaning fee is available.
Cabin Rentals: All cabin and campsite reservations must be made with the office staff at Springmaid Mountain. Please call 828-765-2353 or email [email protected]. If requesting a campsite, please include the size of your trailer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is your clinic cancellation policy?
We understand that plans can change. Please review our cancellation terms below.
30 Days or More Before the Clinic:
Cancellations made at least 30 days before the clinic start date will receive a full refund, minus the non-refundable deposit.
8–29 Days Before the Clinic:
Cancellations made within this period will receive a 75% refund of the balance, not including the non-refundable deposit.
7 Days or Less Before the Clinic:
Cancellations made within 7 days of the clinic start date are not eligible for a refund.
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 30 days prior to the clinic date.
How do I pay my remaining balance?
We’ll send you an email 30 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. You can find a full breakdown of any additional fees on each clinic information page under “Clinic Fees.”
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