Registrations are being taken for the upcoming Groom Elite equine classes at Isothermal Community College’s Polk Center in Columbus.

Introduction to Horse Care & Handling (Groom 99) will meet for three sessions from 5 – 9 p.m. on Sept. 15, 17 and 22. This course provides an overview of the basic information a new worker or horse owner needs to start working with horses. Classes will cover the basics of equine behavior, terminology, major equine anatomy, safe horse handling, introduction to equipment, observation of horses for signs of injury and illness, bathing and more. Groom 99 is a prerequisite for the Groom Elite 101 course. Registration fee includes class handouts.

Groom Elite 101 will meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays from Oct. 6 through Nov. 5 from 5-9 pm. This flagship 40 hour course focuses on important horse care skills including: equine behavior, grooming basics, equine anatomy, digestion and feeding guidelines, horse health evaluation, applying bandages, safety, barn management, and much more.

Groom Elite 101 is geared to horse care workers and horse owners with some experience who desire to have a deeper and more comprehensive knowledge of the horse and working with horses. Originally designed for the racing industry, this nationally recognized groom certification curriculum has been modified for Isothermal Community College to address the needs of the show horse industry. At the end of the course students will have to opportunity to be tested for competency and knowledge and receive their “Certified Groom Elite” certification. The registration fee for Groom Elite 101 includes book and class handouts.

Instructors for the Groom Elite program at Isothermal Community College include equestrian trainers and riding instructors, Erin Gambrell and Lilia White, veterinarian Dr. Thann Boyum, and equine breeder and ambulatory veterinary technician Anita Williamson.

The Groom Elite courses combine classroom discussions and presentations, outdoor demonstrations with horses and hands-on practice. Students must be at least 16 years old. Both courses are available in English and Spanish. Financial assistance may be available.

For more information on these programs or to register for classes, please call the Polk Center at 828-894-3092.

– Submitted by Mike Gavin