Free riding lessons in Andover

Have you or your kids ever wanted to learn to ride a horse? Now, you can try for free!

Ironstone Farm, 450 Lowell St. (Route 133), Andover is offering a limited number of free horseback-riding lessons for new riders on Sunday, March 6, one week before Daylight Savings time takes effect. People must sign up in advance for the lessons, which will be available from 12:30 to 3 p.m. What better way to look forward to the longer, brighter days of spring?

Here’s a link to the registration forms: http://ironstonefarm.org/free-riding-march-6/

Ironstone Farm is open 12 months a year, six days a week.

While spring, summer and fall are the most popular times to ride, approximately 300 people ride recreationally or have their therapeutic riding each week at Ironstone during the winter. Like skiing, horseback-riding is a wonderful and popular way to get outdoor exercise during the winter. Unlike skiing, it can be done when the weather warms, too.

Ironstone has two indoor arenas for riders, but many people prefer to be outside regardless of the weather. Many say the heat of the horse helps keep them warm. Of course, Daylight Savings Time is a sign that spring -- and its warmer weather -- is around the corner.

A similar free-riding opportunity offered by Ironstone Farm after last year’s brutal blizzards filled quickly.

People must preregister for the free riding opportunity, available from 12:30 to 3 p.m. on Sunday, March 6. Riders must be 6 or older. There are a limited number of lessons available, and they will be awarded on first-registered, first served basis. Riders with a diagnosis or who are on medication will need a physician’s approval. Call Ironstone Farm at 978-475-4056, or email programs@challengeunlimited.org for more information.

About Ironstone Farm

Ironstone Farm offers recreational riding and a summer camp that has sold out since 2000.

It is also home to two nonprofit programs that benefit children with special needs, veterans, people diagnosed with cancer and others. More than 200 people volunteer their time each week to help keep Ironstone Farm’s nonprofit programs running strong. Clients come from more than 90 communities in Greater Boston, the Merrimack Valley and Southern New Hampshire. Top doctors and major medical institutions refer clients to Ironstone Farm because of its successful programs and reputation.

On Saturday, May 7, Ironstone will host the Ironstone Derby 5K & Kentucky Derby Party on the afternoon of the Kentucky Derby. People can run or walk the race and then stay at the Andover horse farm for a Kentucky Derby party with food, games, prizes and a showing of the Kentucky Derby live on a big screen in the indoor arena. There’s even a stick-horse race for kids. To sign up, visit www.ironstonefarm.org/derby. For more information about Ironstone Farm’s nonprofit programs visit www.ironstonefarm.org.