Purcell Collegiate School (PCS) partners with Windover Ranch to provide an exceptional equestrian opportunity to participating students, both Canadian and international. The Purcell Equine Academy programming stands out for its flexibility and personalized approach. It offer riders the chance to train and learn on Windover’s exceptional school horses, or, if you own your own horse, you may haul in your horse and participate in Windover’s board/train lesson program. This structure ensures that all riders, regardless of whether they have their own horse, can benefit from Windover’s tailored instruction and facilities.

Meet the Coach:

Lori Johansen is the Head Coach at Windover Ranch and the Coordinator of Purcell Equine Academy.  She has over 20 years of experience in developing both horses and riders. Lori is committed to providing a structured training environment where fun and consistency are seamlessly integrated. She is passionate about guiding our students to develop healthy and rewarding relationships with their horses and building confidence in themselves.

Lori holds an NCCP License as a Competition Coach through Equestrian Canada and Coach.ca. She began her NCCP training in 2012 and has continually pursued further education to enhance her coaching and riding expertise.

Programming Schedule:

• Sessions are held from September through June, with an average of 17 to 18 riding and training sessions each month.
• Riding and training sessions take place Monday through Thursday, from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm.
• Fridays are dedicated to classroom instruction.
• Additional field trips and activities are scheduled throughout the year.
• Opportunities are available to add supplementary training sessions for students interested in advanced development or participation in our competitive program. In-house competitive events may also be offered.

Competitive Opportunities for Students:

• Riders of the Windover in-house competitive team have the opportunity to compete at prominent venues such as Spruce Meadows, Rocky Mountain Show Jumping, Thunderbird, and various local events. We can make this a potential option for students.
• Advanced customized training can be arranged for students who are committed to pursuing a competitive equestrian program.

Training Curriculum:

• Four equine-related and riding practice sessions per week (150 minutes each).
  Comprehensive instruction includes horsemanship, horse husbandry, use of quality school horses, Gaining skills in walk/trot/canter, jumping, dressage, trail riding thru trees and in fields, western riding, horse care, equipment/paddock maintenance, and basic veterinary care.
• Preparation for Equine Canada Rider Level testing is provided, which may be eligible for high school credits and can benefit students considering careers in the equine industry.
• Classroom-based learning covers equine-related courses, guest lectures, field trips to veterinary clinics, video analysis, and sports psychology.
• Physical conditioning such as yoga and rider fitness is incorporated to enhance performance (number of sessions to be determined).

Required Gear:

• Detailed information regarding necessary equipment will be provided.
• Team apparel is recommended and may be made available.

Facility Highlights:

• Heated barn for year around training
• Large, bright indoor arena for winter riding
• 3 outdoor arenas
• Over 200 acres of trails/fields
• Professional coaching
• School horses

For more information, visit the Windover Ranch website or click their logo below.

For our fee schedule, click here.  Questions? Email equine@purcellcollegiate.ca or Direct Message us through our Instagram account at @purcellequine.