Guest Pass: Alpine Farms In Medina

MEDINA, Minn. (WCCO) -- In this week's Guest Pass, Matt Brickman takes us to Alpine Farms in Medina, where they teach horses and riders to run, jump and an Olympic sport called dressage.

"Some people call it ballet for horses," said Trainer Stewart Underhill. "They have to do special movements, they don't do any jumping but they are highly trained athletes that do specific movements under the rider's aids."

Make no mistake, dressage takes a lot of practice for both horse and rider.

"It takes a lifetime of work," said Underhill. "I've been working at it since I was 12, I'm 34 now. You never stop learning."

Their riders have participated in some of the highest levels of competition. But everyone has to start somewhere, so they teach beginner lessons too.

"All you need is maybe a snug pair of jeans and a boot and then from there, you can make it as much or as little as you want," said Underhill.

Matt was prepared with both. So after a couple of safety tips, Stewart put him on a horse and taught him how to trot.

"That interaction with the horse is just fun," said Underhill. "I mean it brings out a lot in people and they learn a lot and it just keeps them mentally sound."

Alpine Farms does private and group lessons. You can find info on how to sign up here.