YMCA Camp Mason announces opens enrollment for Diamond M Ranch

Hardwick - For youngsters whose idea of paradise is riding and working with horses, YMCA Camp Ralph S. Mason has announced that enrollment for this summer’s 2007 Diamond M Ranch Camp is underway. The Y is currently accepting enrollments from new and first time campers. Diamond M Ranch is the YMCA’s specialty sleep away camp designed for boys and girls between the ages of 12 and 16, who are interested in learning or enhancing equestrian skills.. Under the Y program launched in 1985, youngsters are assigned to a horse of their own for the entire two week camp stay. They spend the entire morning or afternoon riding and practicing western horsemanship skills and are responsible for feeding, grooming, health care, tack maintenance and barn care. The instructional program is progressive so that campers who have never ridden before and those with fairly extensive experience can participate and benefit from the program. Ranch campers bunk together at Camp Mason and their instructors also serve as their camp counselors. Half of each day participants will also choose from traditional camp activities including swimming, boating, hiking, sports, crafts and others from among thirty-four different daily electives available at Mason. According to YMCA Camp Director, Wes Supper, the goal of the program is to give campers a fun experience while also teaching them new skills and helping them develop self confidence and a sense of responsibility. The entire ranch program is also strongly grounded in teaching children the YMCA character trait objectives of honesty, caring, responsibility and respect. “We suggest that families interested in Diamond M Ranch Camp consider it as early as possible,” said Supper. “At this point, with so many returning campers from last year already enrolled, we will soon run out of space for new participants.” Anyone interested in learning more about the Y’s summer sleep away camps may pick up a brochure at your nearest YMCA, or is invited to request a free brochure and video be mailed direct by calling 908-362-8217. Interested families may also learn more by visiting the camp in person or the website located at wvvw.CampMason.org