The Horsham Introduction to Horsemanship Ground Skills Clinic was held at the Horsham Showgrouds on March 1st - 2nd 2014. It was a fabulous weekend and it was wonderful to meet so many new
people! We had a great turnout for the Demonstration on Friday evening
and whilst everyone was arriving, I warmed up with some contact riding
that included some jumps, counter canter and flying lead changes! After
our introduction and a talk, we did some bridle less riding. Of course
Abbey was a star and whilst I was talking to the crowd (with no bridle
on!) we had a crew of over 20 footballers out training come running
past! Abbey was of course interested in the colorful parade and I took
advantage of the distraction by making out that 'anything could happen
here!!' Of course Abbey stood quietly and the crowd had a few giggles
at my expense.
The next two days we spent looking at our ground skills and
establishing our leadership with our horses which resulted in much
happier, calmer horses. Everyone went home with VERY full minds and
much excitement to see their horses progress as they practise their new
found skills over the next few weeks.
A huge thank you to Adele Marshall, Horshams local Practise Group Organiser, for inviting me to come to Horsham to share some horsemanship knowledge.
Student Ta-Dah's!
Head up and down controls were FANTASTIC!
Starting to understand 'my space' & 'your space'
Standing still, not leaning, rubbing or moving towards me
Dot started to stay out of my space!!
Transitioned from trot to walk with only body life down.
Keeping him out of my space
Body life up, keeping horses focus on you.
