Programs - Coach & RiderTrail Guide Mentor Approval

This practical mentoring program is replacing a formal technical evaluation to provide a more educational and accessible program for potential trail guides. The mentor system is designed to develop the use of proper procedures and techniques for the potential Trail Guide.

 To qualify as an HFC/OEF Trial Guide Mentor, the following criteria is required:

• HFC & OEF Member
• Operator/manager of a successful trail facility for a minimum of 5 years
• Exhibits the desired qualities of a 'mentor' and is willing to share their expertise with potential trail guide candidates - The word ‘mentor’ is generally defined as a wise, loyal advisor, and a teacher. The CAC mentorship program states: "the role of a mentor is to provide experiences and reflection opportunities that complement training and certification". Therefore, the mentor's role is to prepare the candidate by acting as his/her role model and advising him/her in all areas of knowledge and conduct so he/she may become a role model for the industry of Trail Riding
• Approved by the HFC/OEF Board of Directors.  Anyone interested in becoming approved as a mentor needs to submit a resume to the OEF office detailing your experience on the Trails etc.  This resume will be forwarded to the committee for recommendation.

The mentors are very important to the system, as they are responsible for the level of proficiency at which the tasks are performed. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the Mentor to ensure that they are educated and up-to-date on the current requirements and standards for an HFC/OEF Certified Trail Guide. Please note that although the candidate is being exposed to one particular trail program, the mentor should also prepare the candidates for other trail riding environments.

 Steps for Trail Guide Mentor

1. Obtain approval as an HFC/OEF Trail Guide Mentor.
2. Order the Trail Guide Manual and other required reading for yourself and your candidate(s) from the OEF office.
3. Have candidate obtain an OEF membership.
4. Have candidate complete a current first aid course
5. Have candidate complete a NCCP Multi-Sport Introduction to Competition Module A Course
   
   

Complete the Mentor Task Sheet, which covers the following:

1. evaluate riding skill by having candidate complete the EC Rider 2 program, Pony Club C2, CHA Rider Level 3, or rider assessment (rider assessment form must be completed if the candidate does not hold one of the above listed certificates)
2. mentor candidate for a minimum of 10 one-hour trail rides (or until they meet the required standards and skills) with instruction and guidance on safe trail procedures and management
3. order the Trail Guide Open-book Assessment from the OEF office for the Trail Guide candidate to complete within 30 days.

Any candidates who are applying for Trail Guide Certification need to forward the following to the OEF office:

• HFC/OEF Trial Guide Application Form
• proof of current OEF membership
• copy of current first aid certificate
• copy of NCCP Theory Certificate of Completion
• completed and signed Mentored Task Sheet
• successfully completed Trail Guide Open-book Assessment
• $10.50 (includes GST) administration fee made payable to the Ontario Equestrian Federation (OEF)

An HFC/OEF Trail Guide Certificate of Completion will be forwarded to the candidate by mail from the OEF office.

Updated 2009/02/26