Equestrian Program

Equine Excellence

Our Program

Equine excellence knows no bounds at McDonogh School. Boasting two indoor arenas (and another under construction), our program provides unparalleled opportunity for all levels of equestrians.

Our team of seven nationally certified trainers provides expert instruction that guides riders from the foundational levels of our Lower School PE program to the heights of varsity and college preparatory offerings, with carefully curated steps along the way.

Additionally, our one-of-a-kind horses and ponies are a testament to the beauty and grace of the equestrian world. From Leadline to Junior Hunter competition, our mounts are among the most coveted in the region.

What's more, our program is inclusive – welcoming students from local schools and colleges, as well as adults, to join our vibrant equestrian community and share in the joy of horsemanship.

Discover the extraordinary journey that awaits in McDonogh’s premier equestrian program. For more information, contact Bristol Craft at bcraft@mcdonogh.org.

McDonogh School Programs

McDonogh Varsity Athletic Team

Open to McDonogh students in grades 9-12
Required Attendance: Monday-Thursday with optional Friday
Competition: Participation (competing, volunteering, or working) is required at 2-3 competitions per semester
Program Includes:
- 5-8 non-mounted educational days per semester
- Mounted training days on various appropriate mounts

McDonogh Junior Varsity Athletic Team

Open to McDonogh students in grades 9-12
Required Attendance: Monday-Thursday
Competition: Not required
Program Includes:
- 5-8 non-mounted educational days per semester
- Mounted training days on various appropriate mounts

Middle School Educational Equestrian Team

Open to McDonogh students in grades 6-8
Required Attendance: Monday-Thursday
Competition: Not required
Program Includes:
- 5-8 non-mounted educational days per semester
- Mounted training days on various appropriate mounts

Middle School Equestrian Competition Team

Open to McDonogh students in grades 6-8
Required Attendance: Monday-Thursday
Competition: A minimum of two competitions are required per semester
Program Includes:
- 5-8 non-mounted educational days per semester
- Semester lease of assigned appropriate horse/pony
- Cohesive trainer availability during training and competition
- Holiday and Saturday training opportunities

Open-To-All Programs

Junior Equestrian Competition Team

Open to students in kindergarten through fifth grade
Competition: A minimum of two competitions are required per semester
Program Includes:
- 5-8 non-mounted educational days per semester
- Semester lease of assigned appropriate horse/pony
- Cohesive trainer availability during training and competition
- Holiday and Saturday training opportunities

Pony Pilot Program

Open to students in grades PK through third grade
Three lessons maximum per week
Semester partial lease of assigned appropriate horse/pony

Lesson Program

Open to students in grades PK through eighth grade
After School Monday-Thursday
Program Includes:
- Training days on various appropriate mounts
- Basics development
- Hands-on non-mounted lessons may be given during inclement weather

Emerging Athletes Program

Open to students in grades 7-11; Application required; Limited acceptance
Each rider will receive an individualized competition schedule curated for their individual goals
Program Objectives:
- Provide highly motivated riders with intensive training and equine-related education
- Prepare riders for all levels of collegiate riding
- Apply the mental skills taught for the competition ring to everyday life challenges and adversity
- Instill confidence and independence through hard work, grit, and determination

Horse Boarding/Leasing Program

Open to all
Full board care

Equestrian Summer Program

Over the summer months, McDonogh offers full- and half-day equestrian programs.

Molly Moon Equestrian Scholarship

The Molly Moon Equestrian Scholarship is a summer program open to any interested children aged 6-12 who would benefit from direct instruction in a small group due to diagnosed learning and/or processing differences, including but not limited to, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, executive function disorder, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, and any other medical and/or mental health challenge associated with an adverse effect on child development and education.

Summer 2025 Program: July 28-31 from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.

Interested applicants who can show documentation from a medical or mental health professional of an applicable diagnosis should submit their application no later than Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Applicants accepted into the program will be notified by Friday, May 16. There are no application fees, and the program is free.

Applicants do not need to be current participants in McDonogh’s equestrian camps or lessons.

Questions?
Application Process: Steve Birdsall, sbirdsall@mcdonogh.org or 443-544-7021
Equestrian Program: Bristol Craft, bcraft@mcdonogh.org or 443-544-7120

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