Tag Archives: Dressage Stallion

Professional Rider

Looking for Livery near London? Mandy Day and Edward Brook at Caldecote Farm Livery

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Horse Scout Blogger has been keeping an eye on the new listings.  If you are looking for training with top professionals or for livery with great hacking and facilities near London; then look no further!

Caldecote Farm is a professional equestrian centre for all aspects of horse management including livery and competition training. Owned by show jumper Edward Brook and dressage rider Mandy Day, who pride themselves on providing all the services you would expect from a pedigree equestrian centre, including the breaking, schooling and sale of top quality horses.

Easy located, Caldecote Farm is just 14 miles from Central London. Set amongst 50 acres of pasture with stunning views over the Hertfordshire countryside and North London, Caldecote Farm is perfectly positioned within a network of local bridleways. Our own bridge provides access to some fantastic hacking – including the grounds of Munden House Estate, Elstree aerodrome and along the banks of the River Colne and Otterspool Water Meadows.  Heck out their profile here.

A bit about Edward Brook:

Edward Brook started riding horses seriously at the age of 15 and gained his BHSII by the age of 19, making him one of the youngest people at the time to achieve this qualification. He soon realised that he found show jumping the most exciting of all the riding disciplines. He is a highly respected rider on the circuit – competing both internationally and nationally. He has also ridden horses for many owners. He is always on the lookout for young stock in the hope of finding a new star, and has produced horses from three years old to a Grade A standard, ready for selling.

Edward managed Patchetts Equestrian Centre for five years, and helped to make it the place it is today before buying into Caldecote Farm. Like Mandy, he has a passion for teaching and is a Level 3 credited coach for the BSJA, encouraging his pupils to get the most out of their horses in a sympathetic and motivating way. He has helped train Mandy up to Prix St. George dressage.

He is keen to help his pupils from Pony Club through to J/A, from the novice rider to the more experienced; young riders to the more mature.

…and Mandy’s Bio:

A professional competition rider and trainer based in Hertfordshire, London. Trained by Grand Prix rider Lisa Hopkins. Successfully competed at all levels up to Inter II, qualifying for regionals and nationals. Very successful with 4-5 year olds, making all the young horse finals last year. Love training and seeing great improvements in all her clients. Mandys competitive forecast for the coming season: Young international 4 year old qualifier Shearwater, 4 year old qualifier Badminton horse, 4 year old qualifier PSG & Inter 1 Keysoe.

Mandy Day has a strong personal connection with Caldecote Farm. She bought it 3½ years ago after using the livery herself for 20 years, which gives her a unique perspective and a real understanding of what a horse owner wants. Not only does she live on site with her partner Edward and daughter Georgina, she is in the yard throughout the day.

Having competed successfully in show jumping and eventing, she now focuses on dressage and can help with all riding disciplines. With her own two horses, she has competed in the first season at Prix St. Georges – in addition to qualifying for the Advanced Medium Open, PSG Freestyle, Advanced Medium Freestyle and the Wellington Advanced Medium Freestyle.

She enjoys competing at a higher level, as it gives her clients a chance to see her in action.  She also loves teaching and passing on the knowledge she has learnt over the years, encouraging riders at different levels to reach their full potential.  She is a firm believer that attaining a sense of self-confidence is a large part of riding well. To contact Mandy directly follow this link here.

Caldicote hold their own Summer Championship show with intro, prelim, novice and elementary classes once a month May through August with the championship being held on 28th September.

They also have Reggies Bar & Bistro on site.  A wonderful Bistro overlooking the lake with panoramic countryside views. Click here for more info in this fantastic little place.

Professional Rider

Horse Scout Bloggers’ Professional Profile Review: Olivia Oakeley.

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From pony club star to international success as Young Rider European Team member in 2012,13 and 14. Now an International dressage rider with 5 European Championships and a BEF World Class Squad member since 2010; Horse Scouts’ newly listed Professional Freelance trainer Olivia Oakeley was bought her fabulous 16hh Dimaggio gelding called Donna Summer, a big moving five year old who had only been backed for three months, when she was just 13. For a 13 yr old child this was a huge ask and many people doubted the purchase! Together, ‘Rio’ and I trained hard and both of us have worked together to show what we can achieve. In 2007 we became Under 21 Novice National Champions and represented BYRDS South West at Home Internationals in Scotland (Novice) and Wales (Medium) where we were Reserve Champions in both competitions. During the next couple of years, Rio and I continued to work hard alongside my school work.

on Olivias’ website bio she goes on to say:

In 2009 after I finished my GCSEs, I was lucky enough to go to Carl Hester’s yard for two weeks, working in return for lessons. Carl asked me to stay on as his working pupil and so at 16 years old having attained 7 A’s and 2 B’s in GCSEs, I left home. Rio and I continued to improve and show success by becoming Advanced Medium Regional Champions. Following that we went on to become Reserve Advanced Medium National Champions. By this point we had been noticed by the British Under 21 selectors and we were put onto the U21 Progress Squad with a view to competing at Junior level in International competitions. We continued to gain good marks in the Junior Team test and were selected to compete for Great Britain at Addington CDI in April 2010. We came 5th in the Team test and were the highest placed British combination. From there, we were sent to Moorsele, Belgium where we came 11th in the Team Test and improving to 11th in the Individual Test.

The peak of our success was in 2010, when we were selected for the Junior European Team in Kronberg, Germany. We were to be the pathfinders of the team and ended up with an international personal best of 67.24% in 16th place in the team test and the 2nd highest placed British rider with the Team coming 5th. 2011 brought great news as Donna Summer and I were selected for World Class Potential Start Squad. This is huge recognition for us both and we will endeavour to keep on improving and being successful.

In 2011, I was selected for the Junior European Team and then the Young Rider European Team in 2012, 2013 and 2014 where I had three personal best scores all over 70% and finished in 5th place. My goal is to be on future Senior Teams. Alongside my competition commitments, I am a freelance rider and trainer whilst also riding for Lordswood Dressage and I still train with Carl Hester. I have been on the BEF World Class programme since 2010.The peak of our success was in 2010, when we were selected for the Junior European Team in Kronberg, Germany. We were to be the pathfinders of the team and ended up with an international personal best of 67.24% in 16th place in the team test and the 2nd highest placed British rider with the Team coming 5th. 2011 brought great news as Donna Summer and I were selected for World Class Potential Start Squad. This is huge recognition for us both and we will endeavour to keep on improving and being successful.

In 2011, I was selected for the Junior European Team and then the Young Rider European Team in 2012, 2013 and 2014 where I had three personal best scores all over 70% and finished in 5th place. My goal is to be on future Senior Teams. Alongside my competition commitments, I am a freelance rider and trainer whilst also riding for Lordswood Dressage and I still train with Carl Hester. I have been on the BEF World Class programme since 2010.

Operating ofrom her glousestershire base, Olivia Offers a freelance training programme for your horse.  Click here to make an enquiry.

Professional Rider

The Advanced Apprenticeship in Sports Excellence (AASE) programmes at Hartpury .

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The Uk has an amazing scheme in Hartpury, aimed at 16-19 year olds. A perfect way for young and aspiring elite athletes to prepare for life in professional sport.The scheme will be offered across three different disciplines: Dressage, Eventing and Para-dressage.   The open day is fast approaching. 

In comparison; this morning Horse Scout retweeted an editorial piece on American young riders.  

“Teenage Snowbirds? Just Part of Being a Young Equestrian” It made for interesting reading and a great concept.  Bringing young American riders together, in a competitive arena, with a 12 week annual season of coaching and training rounds.  The cost was eye watering with keen parents spending upwards of $23,000 over the season of weekend training. Admittedly this did include everything, stabling barns (One string included upwards of 70 horses: only in America I thought as I read that!)  coaching and entry fees, accommodation and travel etc.  All this with an element of the Jones about it, as may be, but the concept seemed to be a brilliant one and for those who want to become top professionals then this is obviously an opportunity to progress.  The UK has its own answer to this though.  On the British Dressage website today I read about a scheme in Hartpury.  The open day is fast approaching so if you want to take part in this then get your skates on.

Hartpury’s multi-million pound facilities and international level coaching give select Dressage and Eventing riders the perfect opportunity to develop their skills, learn how to manage all aspects of a professional riding career, and continue their education. Through the AASE scheme, young riders who have a real chance of competing on the international stage will be professionally supported and trained to achieve their goals. Who is eligible? 

The scheme will be offered across three different disciplines: Dressage, Eventing and Para-dressage.

You must

  • Have 5 GCSE’s A* to C, including Maths and English.
  • Be aged 16 and over by August 31st 2015, and under 19 years of age by the same date.
  • Be resident in England

Eventing AASE criteria for 16 – 18 year olds

The following criteria must be achieved

  • Top 25% of starters in a CCI1* – from 1st July 2014 to close of application date
  • Top 25% of starters in the 2015 National U18 Championships
  • Long listed for the 2015/14 Junior European Team
  • Long listed for the 2015/14 Pony European Team
  • Top 25% of starters at the 2014 U18 Regional Team Championships
  • Top 25% of starters in the 2014 Pony Club Open Championships

The qualifying (MER’s) results are as follows

FEI Qualification CCI1*
75 or less in the dressage
16 or less in the show jumping
clear  in the cross country
36 or less in the cross country time penalties

Pony Club Championships
50 or less in the dressage
16 or less in the show jumping
clear cross country with no more than the 36 in the time penalties

DRESSAGE
Riders should be competing consistently at Medium level and above and achieving 65% or more. (Applicants should have a minimum of four results at the level required in the 12 months prior to application).

Riders will also be considered on younger horses (up to 7 years of age) who demonstrate the potential to compete successfully at International level and are already competing consistently at Elementary or above and achieving 70% or more.  Please note freestyle scores do not count towards minimum criteria.

PARA EQUESTRIAN DRESSAGE 
Riders must have a current classification and should be consistently and currently scoring 62% in their relevant grade at BD Para Dressage Competitions.  Please note freestyle scores cannot be counted

On top of this, applicants, aged 16-19, will need to display a willingness to learn and the desire and commitment to succeed.

What do you gain from it?

By doing the Advanced Apprenticeship in sporting excellence you will give yourself the best chance to succeed in your chosen discipline. Apprentices will combine their riding with units aimed at preparing them for all aspects of their future career. Those selected for the course will have aspirations to compete internationally and will be guided throughout to make sure this dream can be achieved.

Apprentices will also have access to a range of specialist, professional services including physiotherapy, strength & conditioning and sports psychology.

How and when do I apply?

Open day – Thursday 9th April  

We’re holding an open day for potential applicants on Thursday 9th April. Those attending the day MUST have or be close to meeting the above requirements in their chosen discipline. If you meet, or are close to meeting, the criteria then you can sign up here.

  •          Applications open – February 2nd 2015
  •          Open day – Thursday 9th April
  •          Applications close – May 29th
  •          Selection and notification – June 2015
  •          Programme induction day – Saturday September 5th
  •          Programme starts – September 2015.

If you meet the entry criteria (under the Who is eligible? section) then please download both forms on the left and fill in all the fields before returning by either:

  • Scanning and emailing to admissions@hartpury.ac.uk
  • Faxing a copy to 01452 700629
  • Posting it to Admissions, Hartpury College, Hartpury, Glos, GL19 3BE
British Dressage

Classical principals from across the pond – Dressage Clinics with Stephen Hayes this summer

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USA based Professional rider Stephen Hayes –has recently created a profile on Horse Scout.  Horse Scout Blogger noticed, on his face book page, that he is back in the UK from 25th July until 7th August and is available to run clinics for you

Stephen Hayes is a British 23 year old, who has worked and trained with some of the worlds best in dressage, he has trained with Olympic team riders and FEI judges who have judged all the way to WEG, Europeans and Olympic Games. Stephen, a well respected British rider is known for his way of riding and also his way of teaching riders. Stephen has been in extremely high demand to host Dressage clinics within the UK and with upwards of 60 clinics to date.  He is based at the spectacular world class facility in Florida and New Jersey with Piaffe Performance . Stephen rides and trains a number of horses and clients from young to highly advanced and enjoys the journey and progression more than anything else.

Stephens Bio:

I’ve always had a love and desire to one day work in the United States, ever since I first visited the country on holiday with my family back in 2001. So in December 2012 age 21, I made a huge decision to move out to the States to ride, teach and compete on one of most successful yards in America, Piaffe Performance. It’s situated in New Jersey during the summer months (45 mins from NYC) and Wellington, Florida known as the ‘Capital of the equestrian world’ during the winter show season, (10 mins from West Palm Beach). For me this move has been the best decision I’ve ever made, I work with an incredibly talented team of riders and grooms and have a wide range of enthusiastic clients which I coach on a daily basis. At Piaffe Performance I ride a range of horses from the young and uneducated all the way to Grand Prix horses. I’ve also had the opportunity to compete at many a show, one of the most recent was at ‘Dressage at Devon’ arguably the biggest show of the year in the USA, I competed one of the horses I ride daily in the higher advanced medium class, against other very high profile riders including some who had been in previous Olympics, what an incredible experience. During my time in America I’ve met and trained with some of the most respected riders, trainers and judges in the world and been to some amazing places outside the dressage world, previously I trained in Barcelona, Spain Beatrice Ferrer Salat, one of the finest dressage riders in the world, who has competed many a time in the Olympics, there I learnt how to really understand what feels correct when riding a horse and how to ride and train the upper level movements. I had the opportunity to ride amazing horses and occasionally horses like Olympic qualifiers; words can’t describe how unreal that was to be able to do that. Not only were the horses out of this world but the actual yard was the most prestige and luxurious I’ve ever seen in my life and in any magazine, the horses we’re literally treated like Kings. My experience in Spain was more than just educational, I was working hard and long days and in return had intense training from Beatrice, and I could never thank her enough for what she did for me as rider. I went on to train with Vicki Thompson-Winfield for 9 months in Surrey, a previous GB rider for the Olympics, another very valuable experience for me.

If you are interested in taking a clinic with Stephen then click through to his profile page on Horse Scout

Horse Jobs

Weekdays or weekends? Part time grooms for two very different yards

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Horse Scout has two wonderful yards looking for part time staff. Dressage specialists Labazordiere Dressage in Surrey are looking for a groom to cover weekday mornings (but are flexible) and in Chiddingfold, also in Surry, Southern Schoolmasters, who specialise in western riding and reining are looking for a groom to cover weekends

Labazordiere Dressage in Bramley, Surrey are looking for either a part or full time groom to join us in their new dressage training yard in Bramley, Surrey. Monday – Friday mornings preferable, but can be relatively flexible on days / times Candidate must be experienced and confident as we have youngsters and stallions. Training can be given. Candidates must be capable of taking occasional sole charge on occasion. This is not Live In position so own car a must. Friendly owners, good atmosphere and beautiful location

Labazordiere Dressage is the exclusive equestrian training centre on the spectacular 1000acre Wintershall Estate in the heart of the Surrey Hills and conveniently located to the nearby town of Godalming. Offering premier Livery, Facilities & Training in the art of Classical Dressage. The Stables are located at the heart of the Estate, surrounded by the pastures and some of the estates many lakes. The boxes are large and airy in an indoor barn complete with automatic water drinkers and with rear windows opening out to wonderful views of the Estate. There is a wash bay as well as a farriers bay within the indoor facility. The tack room is spacious and secure, with a washing machine, hot & cold water and offers tea and coffee facilities. The secluded Arena is nestled within the hills and is a 20m x 60m outdoor with a sand & passada surface for optimum riding with the peaceful outlook over the surrounding pastures and lakes. Exceptional Hacking on the doorstep to enjoy the stunning scenery either up quiet country lanes, across the Surrey Hills, fields and woodlands or within the neighbouring Wentworth Arboretum.

Specialising in the French Classical Dressage methods of training. Jean is a freelance, experienced registered Coach & Instructor and has benefitted from some of the highest classical training in Europe – Trained by and Son of Jacques Papin (student of Maitre Nuno Oliveira and taught to the highest level at the National Equitation School in Saumur). Jean has been a professional rider & trainer in the French National Stud in Rennes, France and has trained horse & rider in classical dressage and for modern competition from beginner levels up to Grand Prix. Nikita Mitson participates in British Dressage competitions and is qualified in Equine Science and Management as well as a Degree in Law with a focus on Equine Law. They collaborated together in England to establish a livery yard to produce horses both for the art of equitation and for modern competition.

Southern Schoolmasters in Chiddingfold, Surrey are looking for a weekend groom. Are you looking for an opportunity to be involved with horses at the weekend and are keen to learn more about Western Riding. then this may well be just up your street.

Southern Schoolmasters ‘Centre of Horsemanship’, run by a professional team offers a range personalised equestrian services, including livery, training, rehabilitation and tuition. The yard is situated Chiddingfold, Surrey, surrounded by acres of farmland. It offers 5 spacious stables, all weather floodlit school, round pen and all year turnout on well-managed grazing. There are miles of off road hacking, wooded bridleways. Southern Schoolmasters provides you and your horse excellent livery and training facilities with knowledgeable care and first hand access to our team’s experience and guidance. The aim is to provide a safe and relaxed environment that welcomes everyone from competition riders to happy hackers who want to learn, and work with their horses in a respectful way. Options are available for full, part or DIY livery as well as training and sales livery.

We are looking to recruit a reliable confident and experienced groom to join our existing team. We are a professional working livery yard with up to 20 full liveries. The position is yard based and all normal duties are required to be performed to a very high standard. The ideal candidate will have a good standard of horsemanship and have a quiet manner around the yard and horses. The candidate will require a basic knowledge of horses, be outgoing, quick thinking have initiative and lots of common sense. Having a keen eye for details, being physically fit and not afraid of hard work is a must . The yard team work on a 4 days on 2 days off rota which includes weekends. Own transport is essential due to early starts and lack of public transport locally.

Horse Breeds

Horse Scouts’ Irish Connection – Top Professionals and horses with an Irish Conncetion listed on Horse Scout

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Horse Scout Blogger was been inspecting our lists for Irish Horses today.  Wow, there are some top Irish horses listed, at stud and for sale on Horse Scout.

The Irish sports horse is evaluated on its genetic performance. This is used as a measure of the ability of all of a horse’s known relatives including parents, full‐and half‐siblings, grandparents, uncles, aunts etc. Breeding values based on pedigree alone will be identical for all full siblings, however, when these horses start to compete, their own performances will be used to determine a set of genes and therefore breeding values will change accordingly.

Horse Scout also has Olivers Green an Irish Sports Horse Eventer who upgraded to Intermediate in 2014. Lucca Stubbington, who has a Professional Profile on Horse Scout along with profiles of her string of competition horses, says that Olivers’ best placing was 2nd at Scarva Horse Trials as and that he has had good placings at novice level, which included winning at Finvoy Horse Trials. He will be upgraded to CCI** in 2015, whioch must be a very exciting prospect for her. She lists his breeding as Florida Son x Brockley Green.  At the moment this horse has no connections to others on our site other than his Irish Breeding.

However, Horse Scout, the horse worlds’ answer to LinkedIn offers all our professionals the opportunity follow other professionals and their horses. It is a useful measure of pedigree to see how well horses with similar breeding are performing and by building connections, as with any social media hub, the more connections you building the stronger your profile is in the Horse Scout.

Of course a horses performance can be greatly influenced by its training, its rider and its circumstances. A multitude of things. However horse scout bloger has noticed that the Irish Horse is a popular one in the competitive field.  They are a versatile breed with great performance records in all spheres of horsemanship. The even temperament, durability and power of the Irish Draught, mixed with the speed and athleticism of the Thoroughbred, creates a potent mix which is well up to the demands of modern day competition. World famous for jumping and cross-country ability, this Irish Draught/Thoroughbred cross is not only a top caliber international athlete, but can serve as a perfect novice mount, adeptly boosting the confidence of a lower level rider.

Horse Scout has Honour Cruise – listed as a 16.2hh Irish Sports Horse stallion standing in Malpas, Cheshire with proven Cloverhill bloodlines this lovely dapple grey horse combines an exceptional jumping technique with superb correct movement and conformation. He was selected by Oliver Townend and Nina Barbour from the 2009 Elite 3 yr old sale at Cavan. He combines the very best of Irish bloodlines and has the blood and quality needed to be a top-class athlete. Honour Cruise has a fantastic, trainable temperament. Jumped a double clear in his first event, a BE100, at the end of the 2012 season with Oliver Townend, finishing on his dressage score of 25. In 2013 Honour Cruise completed his first full season, finishing the season with a consistent record at Novice level. Finishing in the top ten on five occasions.

Horse Scout also has a few Irish horses for sale on its lists namely:

Clonkyle Pilgrim in Norfolk at £5,500 Richard Pilgrim describes him as a lovely boy by Rantis Diamond who has hunted in Ireland. In six BS outings has had double clears in his Novice classes. Riochard thinks he would make lovely eventer or show jumper and that he is a horse with potential and would make a great project for someone to bring on. He is very careful over jumps and is competing now He won BN and was second in discovery at Easton colledge in two outings at BS classes on 21 02 2015 British Novice and Discovery 8 .03.15.

and Cappoquin Steel in Dorchester, Dorset, who is extremely eye catching **SERIOUSLY SMART** is how describes Aaron Millar, the international Event rider. He says his lovely 16.2hh, 6y.o. steel grey Irish gelding, with 3 tidy paces and a great attitude, is fast learner, who wants to please. Cappoquin Steel will do a super test and has a bold jump but is still snaffle mouthed and polite to a fence. Schooling well at home he hasn’t put a foot wrong. Very well mannered, a pleasure to have on the yard. Will excel in any discipline, ready to go on and realise full potential.

Professional Rider

Professional Profile – Louis Principe – International rider with an impressive track record!

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Are you looking for a top trainer in Gloucestershire? then International Grand Prix Dressage Rider – Luis Principe may be the man for you. Currently training with Carl Hester Luis is enjoying passing on the considerable knowledge & passion gained over the years to his clients. Based in Cheltenham (Gloucestershire). Luis enjoys training riders and horses from Novice through to Grand prix at his base or Freelancing.

Horse Scout blogger was looking at a video of him training Washington this morning and considering the musculature of this wonderful horse. The pure strength guilt into the base of his neck and the beautiful smooth top line all the say to his tail was so obvious as he piaffed and passaged for Louis. “Training from Novice to Grand Prix level” Louis’ approach to training the horse and/or rider (from Novice to Grand Prix) is a sympathetic calm approach with the welfare of the horse being paramount, and I think you can see this is his horses way of going.

One of the consistent things about a top class dressage horse is the evidence of “Durchlassig” When translated literally this actually means “permeable” Which I love, Germans have a way of using words which make such sense if you think in half pass or shoulder in! The Germans use the word Durchlässigkeit to mean that the horse’s energy and the rider’s aids travel in a continuous circuit without resistance in any part of the body. In English this is referred to as “throughness”; ideal state in which the rider can influence the horse with ease. When the horse is Durchlässig, or through, the half halts can form him into a “beach-ball” shape in which he can be very flexible and elastic. His topline becomes very round and he lifts up under his belly, raises his withers and softens the under-neck muscles without resistance.

Louis moved to the UK in 1999 and commented a few years later on his admiration for the pace at which the British rider trained a horse, allowing the horse to mature into its body and build training incrementally “really focusing on the basics and on getting the horse through the levels in a sympathetic and friendly manner, independently of how long it might take,” he said. He preferred this over the Portuguese’s sometimes hurried approach, in the early 90’s, where there was a temptation to just get the horses to do all the “tricks” as soon as possible… “as it just wasn’t for me to bully horses around,” he stated.

Louis Principe represented Portugal in several CDI’s and BE competitions – Highlights: World Cup Qualifiers, 2 European Dressage Championships, World Cup Finals, Reserve for the 2012 Olympics and the 2014 WEG. Whilst busy competing mainly Internationally Luis has also been establishing his own teaching clientele.. The 2015 European Dressage Championships and the 2016 Olympics are Luis’s main aims for the future.  On his Horse Scout Porfessional Profile he has “ Too many placings at International competitions to mention them all but here are a few”: 2011 – European Dressage Championships Rotterdam – Several placings in CDI’s and the World Cup Series – Several placings in BE events to include a 1st place at Pontispool Intermediate on a score of 24.6 penalties 2012 – Several placings in the World Cup Series – World Cup Finals – Reserve for London Olympics 2013 – European Dressage Championships Herning – Several placings in CDI’s and BE events 2014 – Qatar CDI 5* (placed) – Reserve for the WEG Caen.  That is an impressive record!

Louis goes on to say ‘In the new season I’m looking to bring out “Bueno” a 8 years old Lusitano Stallion (not your typical one) in Grand Prix with the aim being either the European Championships (if he is ready at the time) or the 2015/2016 World Cup Season. We have also a superb 3 years old Stallion that I’ll be aiming at the World Breeding Championships in Verden in the upcoming season 2015”

Louise is based at the BHS approved Studdington Court Farm and can offer tuition at the stud or can travel.  Please contact him here is you would like to talk to him about training or orgainising a clinic with him.

Horses For Sale

Rein-Back – In The End It’s Not About Reversing Its About Going Forwards! How Do I Teach My Horse To Rein-Back?

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Is Horse Scout Blogger all back to front today? No, I promise I am not.  Every movement you ever do on a horse that you are training whether it’s a racehorse, an eventer or a star show pony needs to be moving with forwards in mind…..even in reverse!

Teaching a horse to rein-back starts with good stable manners, and rein-back begins as something learned from the ground.  In the wild a horse would very rarely rein-back, however in a trained horse it has huge benefits. n.b. this is not, necessarily, a movement I would try from the back of a horse that I am buying, but it is always quite useful to watch a horse reversing from the ground before making any decisions.

Here I have six of one and half a dozen of the other – so you don’t half bake your rein back.

What is rein back for?

  1. On a practical level being able to rein-back is very useful when you are riding a horse: opening gates becomes much easier if your horse assists you rather than stands against the gate! Removing yourself from a crowd out hunting or in a warm up arena makes it easy to extricate yourself from potentially explosive situations, and so on.
  2. For the horse it can have several benefits.
  3. It is one of the movements you can use to check you have his full attention.
  4. It also has a benefit in stretching the horse over his back.
  5. In advanced training it shows obedience to the aids
  6. Also when collection is established and combined with transitions it can lend elevation and spring to the onward pace

How do I do it?

  1. Start from the ground.
  2. Start by standing beside your horse just at the front of his shoulder facing backwards. Take hold of his bridle but do not pull back. You are merely stopping him moving forwards.
  3. Make a closed cup with you free hand and place it either side of the point of his shoulder and press with the thumb on the inside of the point, as you feel him react and move away say “back” in a firm but light way.
  4. Do not be tempted to push him back, wait for him to move away from the pressure of your hand and immediately take the pressure off and praise him when he does. Soon you will find he responds to the merest touch to this point. He will also learn to respond to the word or hand as he anticipates the contact.
  5. Continue to use the word back until you are ready to ride the movement.
  6. Be clear in your intention and always use the same voice tone, the same hold on the bridle or headcollar and point and style of contact; otherwise you may find he wrongly cues and starts backing up on incorrect cues.

Move on to riding the movement

  1. As soon It’s a good idea to have someone on the ground to help you when teaching this movement. Hal squarely: establish the halt but do not wait for the energy to dissipate. Make use of the side of the arena fence or wall and have your helper stand beside and just slightly in front of your horse’s outside shoulder.
  2. Next, apply the aids for rein-back: incline your body slightly forward to lighten your seat, take both your legs back behind the girth and squeeze gently while resisting any forward movement with the reins. Do not pull on the reins as this will make your horse stiffen.
  3. While you apply the aids, ask your helper to put a hand on the horse’s chest in the way he has leaned and push him back gently, saying the word “back”. This mirrors the commands taught for handling a horse from the ground and if he has been taught this correctly he will go backwards for your helper. In time he will learn also to associate your ridden aids with stepping calmly back and you can gradually remove the ground actions. Ask your helper to repeat the same command, but without actually touching your horse, then to stand further away, dropping the voice aid and eventually moving away altogether. By this stage you should be able to rein-back solo.
  4. It is important to monitor the quality of your rein-back.  Do not perform them too often or the horse may begin to use this option as a form of evasion.  Always make sure that the movement is measured and has a calm purposeful cadence to it with a definite one two beat and movement behind the saddle.
  5. If your horse begins to scoot or stiffen begin again from the ground but also check that there are no physical problems which may be causing this evasion.
  6. As I said it is best to have a helper on hand.  If you are looking for a trainer near you then check out the Horse Scout Professional Trainers list and find someone to help with your rein back progress.
Dressage

Simulated riding sessions – Stay Sober and Smile. Try Leggless at Quob Stables in Hampshire

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Horse Scout Blogger is bouncing today: Well, I wish I was!  Have you ever thought about perfecting your aids or checking how straight you sit?

I was looking at Daisy Jacksons’ Profile on Horse Scout’s Professional Trainers lists and saw that her pyhsio therapists ‘The Balanced Rider’ had Access to a Horse Simulator.

The simulator The Balanced Rider practice use stands at Quob Stables, a smart Equestrian Centre in Hampshire and they offer sessions on “Legless” (brilliant name) for around £35.00. They say that their Dressage Simulator is fun and comfortable to ride. It is ideal to teach riders of all levels, ages and abilities.

The Interactive Dressage Simulator is the most valuable and realistic instructional aid in dressage. It teaches the rider position and control, it develops technique, skill, muscle memory and confidence. It is possible to complete the test and then play it back on the screen

The Advantages listed for riding a simulator are:

1. For the instructor

  • Close proximity to students when teaching

2. For the rider

  • Safe practice for nervous riders
  • Safe and controlled environment
  • Learn the correct posture in minutes
  • Recover from injury with safe measured steps
  • General fitness

3. For everyone!

  • All weather training

The simulator is the same size as a real horse and its action is very close to the natural feel of a real horse. When riding in the simulated arena, the rider is drawn in to the sensation of actually riding in a real ring.

As a teaching aid to help pin point exactly how to give the aids for new movements or to check that you are applying aids correctly, sitting straight, etc this seems like a gift.  Perhaps it could be a gift for someone you think would benefit from a session with their trainer or one from Quob…I wonder if Daisy Jackson has ever tried it!

Daisy is a professional dressage rider, based in Dorset/Hampshire training her current horse to PSG, competing at Advanced Medium. She was on the GB Junior Squad 2012-2013 with International Grand Prix horse Saint Swithens. She has trained with some impressive professionals herself; squad training with Stephen Clarke and Sandy Phillips, and also top trainers such as Dan Greenwood and Nicola Buchanan. Sshe was selected for the High Performance programme and received training with Olympic riders and international judges including Jennie Loriston-Clarke, Anna Ross Davies and Judy Harvey. Daisy is currently training with Nicola Buchanan, Gareth Hughes and Nicky Barrett. Holds Advanced Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence. Training towards UKCC. Available by appointment for training. If you are looking for a trainer in Hampshire contact Nicky here.

for The Balanced Riders practice click here

 

Horse Advice

Lets Look at Leg Yielding – 9 Top Tips to help you make use of this strengthening exercise.

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The aim of leg yielding: To demonstrate the suppleness and lateral responsiveness of the Horse.

Leg-yielding is performed in Working trot in FEI Competitions.

What is looks like

The Horse is almost straight, except for a slight flexion at the poll away from the direction in which it moves, so that the rider is just able to see the eyebrow and nostril on the inside. The inside legs pass and cross in front of the outside legs.

Leg-yielding is preparatory work for more complex movements and is a good first step in strengthening the horses back muscles. It should be included in the training of the horse before it is ready for Collected work. Later on, together with the more advanced shoulder-in movement.

It is the best means of making a horse supple, loose and unconstrained for and a will prepare the horse to move with freedom, elasticity and regularity of its paces bringing lightness and ease in its movements.

Leg yielding can be performed “on the diagonal” in which case the Horse should be as nearly as possible parallel to the long sides of the arena, although the forehand should be slightly in advance of the hindquarters. It can also be performed “along the wall” in which case the Horse should be at an angle of about thirty five (35) degrees to the direction in which he is moving.

How to Execute the Leg Yield (tracking right)

  1. Start in Working Trot, sitting
  2. When approaching the long side, half halt
  3. Shift weight to left seat bone
  4. Apply the left leg behind the girth – actively pushing sideways each time the left hind lifts and starts a forward/sideways step
  5. Right rein guides the direction of travel and prevents bulging of the right shoulder
  6. Right leg continues forward movement and prevents rushing away from the left leg
  7. Apply left rein for slight flexion – this is the last aid and is applied lightly
  8. Straighten and ride forward
  9. Please note that the horse is ridden straight between the reins.

Many variations of this exercise can be used to assist in preparation for more advanced lateral movement. If you are unfamiliar with the leg yield aids, you can practice this exercise at the walk to familiarize yourself with the appropriate application and timing of your aids. This exercise can be executed along the rail or on the inside of the arena as well.

Purpose of the Leg Yield

This movement is the precursor to the shoulder-in and half pass seen in the more advanced tests. The horse should remain supple and relaxed during the execution of this movement.

To supple the horse

To assist with initial straightening for other more advanced movements

Each of the above reasons relates to confirmation of or improvement of the horse’s balance. Half halts can be used as needed so long as appropriate releases and praise are used.

It is also a good exercise in warm up executed with the horse in a long low outline particularly where a horse is broken in the neck and tends to over bend and, therefore, is avoiding coming through along his top line.

Common Errors in Execution

  • Horse does not remain straight
  • Horse leads with hind quarters
  • Rider applies too much inside rein & not enough supporting rein
  • Horse is too steep sideways due to not enough forward driving aids.