I was directed by an acquaintence to a video that is part of the Retired Racehorse Training Challenge that I posted about here. By the way and completely unrelated, if you've observed how clean, attractive and awesome the RRTP website it, it was designed by a friend of ours who is a fellow member of the Area II Adult Riders. So if you are looking for some kick-ass graphic design, you need to go check out Wow!
Back to my original topic. The video shows Eric Dierks, a trainer here in NC who was chosen for the challenge. He grew up with dressage, Pony Club, and eventing all the way to Rolex. Here, he talks you through the fourth ride on the challenge mare he chose, a striking grey named Brazilian Wedding. Watch it, I command thee! Hopefully, he won't hate me for sharing his video.
It is a 34-minute master class in a working a green horse, a young horse, or warming up any horse. Pay attention to his softness and patience. He doesn't make a big deal out of anything (I need this reminder printed on my horse's browband). He doesn't demand more than the horse is able to give. He doesn't worry about where her head is. After 30 minutes, barely off the track, she is supple, confident, and happy.
And what struck me about halfway through is that its basic exercises are very similar to David's death circles that he inflicts upon me. Well, dang, I'm doing something right after all.
I know who I am going to be trying to emulate next time I sit on Encore's back.
Back to my original topic. The video shows Eric Dierks, a trainer here in NC who was chosen for the challenge. He grew up with dressage, Pony Club, and eventing all the way to Rolex. Here, he talks you through the fourth ride on the challenge mare he chose, a striking grey named Brazilian Wedding. Watch it, I command thee! Hopefully, he won't hate me for sharing his video.
It is a 34-minute master class in a working a green horse, a young horse, or warming up any horse. Pay attention to his softness and patience. He doesn't make a big deal out of anything (I need this reminder printed on my horse's browband). He doesn't demand more than the horse is able to give. He doesn't worry about where her head is. After 30 minutes, barely off the track, she is supple, confident, and happy.
And what struck me about halfway through is that its basic exercises are very similar to David's death circles that he inflicts upon me. Well, dang, I'm doing something right after all.
I know who I am going to be trying to emulate next time I sit on Encore's back.