OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2016

October started with another outing to compete at Pachesham EC in a few more elementary tests. Ligero won one test on 69.82%, his best mark at this level. He was unsettled in the next test and was unplaced with 65.73%. In the last few months he has felt so much more confident and we are having fun.

The weather has been lovely this autumn and great for riding. Every year is so different, it's hard to make plans for winter clinics with so few indoor schools available. We will organise dates and hope that we won't be affected by bad weather.

Dates for your diary:

7th & 8th December - Miguel Ralao Clinic
Wednesday 9am - 6pm. Thursday 8am - 3.30pm

All spectators welcome. To be held at East Whipley Farm, Shamley Green, GU5 0TE
Tickets available on the door or www.ttttrust.com

Over the next few months I have to knuckle down to doing case studies for my acupressure course. I have been enjoying learning all about it, feeling and seeing the results. I just need more hours in the day!

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and have a great New Year.



AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2016


Competing at the Iberian Performance Show   -   Photography by Danny Berta



The last few months have flown by. In August I took Ligero to the Iberian Performance Show at Merrist Wood and he won the Ridden PRE gelding class for the second time there. This has become an annual event for Iberian owners, now in its fourth year, and is well run by Sherene Rahmatallah and her team.

1 - 3 September I had a super 3 days at Dovecote in Oxford watching Manolo Mendez again. He really is a very special man who works with the horses so kindly and patiently. At times the audience were moved to tears, you had to be there to understand and see it for yourself. Six of my clients from Chobham came up together and stayed for two days and a few others made it for a day. They all went home truly inspired and have since been working their horses in hand as well as riding. With the youngest being only 14 years old, it's brought a smile to my face every time when they tell me that they 'Manoloed their horse this week'. This is a new term which the girls have made up, if you ever get a chance to meet and watch Manolo, you will understand. Thank you Manolo for being such an inspiration!

This month I also took Ligero back out competing at Elementary. It was our first dressage competition in about 18 months, so I couldn't believe it when I heard we had won both tests! He was still a bit spooky, but generally much more focused. If he could stay more with me throughout the tests I could really improve our marks.

That outing was quickly followed by a really beneficial clinic at the TTT with Alex Cookson. Having eyes on the ground and a trainer who understands where I'm at with Ligero makes all the difference. Since Ligeros accident about 2 years ago, he has found half pass difficult, so I haven't pushed him. I returned to basics and although he now feels super to ride and happy, he still feels hesitant when we venture into half pass. He never appears or feels lame, he just becomes a bit blocked and loses his throughness. That's why I've only been out at elementary. I've accepted that he may not be able to advance despite his collection developing to a higher level and his confidence improving all the time. Alex suggested exercises that had a good effect on encouraging Ligero to step through correctly into a few half pass steps. That's where those 'eyes on the ground' benefit us so much. I'm hoping that Ligero is just holding back mentally rather than physically and by continuing to take it gently and getting his confidence we will be able to move forward. I injured my right shoulder a few years ago and basically it's fine unless I move into a certain range of movement, then I am in trouble and it becomes painful. I can understand that it's not going to be any different for a horse, just hope Ligero doesn't feel like me and will be able to advance.



With my Chobham clients and Manolo Mendez

MAY - JUNE 2016

At the end of May we travelled up to Liverpool to watch Manolo Mendez training horses and riders of all levels. What should have been about a 4hr journey took us 8! It was worth it. We had a super few days, the weather was great and we had a bit of a holiday too. It is such a pleasure to watch Manolo with the horses, he has a kind, understanding manner and really cares about the horses well being at all times. Manolo will be back in England 1st - 3rd September at Dovecote in Oxford. Highly recommend attending if you have the time to go.

In June I was lucky and managed to get a riding place on Stephen Clarke's clinic at the TTT. We worked mainly on keeping Ligero focused and really through to the contact. Ligero has always been very difficult to train as he is very sensitive and can become nervous in new environments. This has improved immensely over the years and has been a disadvantage in competition. I have found his slow progress disappointing, but, I respect that not every horse can be what we want it to be. Most people would probably sell and get another one, that's not for me. I value the very special partnership I have with Ligero and I feel we have fun together, even if he is not as advanced as I would like. He feels so comfortable in his body and riding a horse that feels happy is just the best!

Ligero then had a holiday while I attended an acupressure course later in June. I was inspired to learn about acupressure last summer in Munich when I met Manolo and the late Dr Kerry Ridgway. Over the two day seminar last year, I watched several horses each day being assessed and treated with acupuncture. The results were amazing and Dr Ridgway emphasised that applying acupressure on the points was as effective.


Debbie and Manolo Mendez

The course I attended was through Tallgrass Acupressure Institute. People had come from all over the world as well as far and wide in the UK to attend. I was lucky that the venue was fairly local to me. There is so much to learn and understand, I just have to keep doing it, studying and learning whenever I can - I'm trying. I've done some interesting case studies, which I have to do and submit as part of my exams, thanks to many of my clients who have let me use their horses. I've still got quite a few to do, it's really interesting and I'm looking forward to completing my course work and exams.

Looking ahead - July is usually a quiet month for me and holiday time. August will pick up again with more clinic dates booked. The Iberian Show at Merrist Wood is on for 3 days 19th - 21st August. I hope to take Ligero on one day.

Looking forward to Manolo at Dovecote early September and then clinics start at the TTT with Charles de Kunffy on the 9th. Spectators are welcome at both venues and much can be learnt from watching.


Training with Stephen Clarke   -   Photos by Su Burrows from desk jockeys



JANUARY - MAY 2016

The year started with the very sad news of the death of Dr Kerry Ridgway on the 3rd January. A very special man who will be missed by people all over the world. I feel so privileged to have met him last year and watched him work for two days. He inspired me to learn about acupressure and I am now on a course.

I had my first outing with Ligero in February. A two day training clinic with Alex Cookson at the TTT. Ligero felt happy to be out again, we hadn't been out since last April! We had a constructive two days and the weather even stayed dry for us.

In March we went back to the TTT for a clinic with Charles de Kunffy. Ligero was very unsettled and difficult to train. We found some soreness in his right quarter and came home very disappointed. After a week off and a visit from Osteopath Nigel Hole and Equine Body Worker Diane Daynes he was back on form.

There have been some super training days and seminars held at Dovecote in Oxford and, more locally, at the TTT in March and April. These two venues have a full calendar of events worth attending to further your knowledge, keep an eye on their websites for details.

As I write this its mid May and at last the fields have dried out and it's warm and sunny. I've even been able to ride in the fields, which Ligero seems to enjoy. The soft turf gives him a cadence that feels airborne!

At the end of the month I'm away to Liverpool to watch Manolo Mendez training. A long way to go, but, he is amazing.


If I remember correctly, Dr Ridgway referred to him as the Magic Man. Unfortunately it's too far to take Ligero, we are hoping that we can get Manolo to come further south on his next visit. He is based in Australia, so he doesn't come very often.

I have a new clinic venue in Chobham. Please see the clinic page for details.

I am always happy to travel further to do clinics, please do contact me if you would like to organise one.



DECEMBER 2015

It has been a quiet few months and Ligero has continued to make good progress, I'm looking forward to getting him out to some clinics in the new year.

The TTT has an exciting programme for next year so check out their website and get some dates in your diary.

Wishing you all a Very Happy Christmas and New Year.



AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015

Ligero has made a full recovery and feels great. I am not planning to go anywhere until the new year as Ligero needs time to return to work gradually and rebuild his fitness.

There are several clinic dates coming up at the TTT and at Dovecote Stables which will be interesting to watch. Check out their websites for what's on.

www.ttttrust.com
www.equinethos.co.uk



JULY 2015

After the unpleasant experience last month, it was enlightening to attend a brilliant 2 day symposium held in Munich with Dr Kerry Ridgway, Manolo Mendez and Col Christian Carde. The symposium was 'Optimizing Horses Straightness, Balance & Performance Through Fascia Retraining & Postural Rehabilitation'. It was organised by Caroline Larrouilh, principal of Proud Horse Connections.

It was held at Schwaiganger, Bavaria's State Stud Farm. It is an active Stud Farm and hosts many events throughout the year.

Schwaiganger is Bavaria's State Stud Farm, Ohlstadt, Germany




There were nearly 200 spectators from 16 different countries and all equine professions. It was two days of intense learning, starting at 9am and going on until 6.30-7pm. We learnt so much from these highly knowledgeable horsemen. It was so nice to be with so many people wanting to learn how to do the best for their horses with this 'holistic approach to treating horses in accordance with classical principles'. Read about the Symposium at www.eurodressage.com

Other websites of interest ...
                                                      www.proudhorseconnections.com
                                                      www.drkerryridgway.com
                                                      www.manolomendezdressage.com
                                                      www.christiancarde.com

Ligero is now back home and still under review.




Anja and Debbie with Manolo Mendez


The hacking was lovely from Keepers Cottage Stables in Winterfold


JUNE 2015

June started with a trip to Switzerland to visit Anja, who had been a client of mine for a few years in England before moving there. I had a lovely time and did some riding and teaching in the morning at this beautiful yard, followed by sight seeing in the afternoon.

On my return, I moved Ligero into Livery in Winterfold Forest to get a chance to hack him more. He needed to have some time doing straight lines and hill work while recovering from his injury.

Also during June, I witnessed and experienced, first hand, the terrible training methods that many horses are being subjected to by people who seem to be totally unaware of how cruel they are being to their horses. They ride and compete at Grand Prix, so in their mind, they are right. I was away with a friend for a few days and we visited a yard that left us both feeling quite disgusted. While people are doing well in competition, it is hard to get them to change. For the horses sake things must change. Fortunately there are people out there, who are respected knowledgeable horsemen, who are trying to educate and prove it is wrong. Horses trained kindly are a pleasure to ride, happy to work with us and still train to Grand Prix!




APRIL - MAY 2015

In April I was fortunate to get a chance to train with Olympic Rider and Trainer Miguel Ralao from Portugal at the TTT. As Ligero was still not fully back into work, I had to keep his training very basic and he was also a little more nervous than usual. Miguel was a very sympathetic trainer and we spent our two sessions just getting Ligero back on track. His accident has affected him a lot and I am concerned that he is still uncomfortable. It would have been great to have been able to benefit more from Miguel's training, but, Ligero needs time and his well being comes first.


FEBRUARY - MARCH 2015

Ligero was feeling his best ever and I was looking forward to the Spring and getting out to clinics and some competitions. In February Ligero had a freak fall when he spooked on the lunge. It was a horrid fall and I was very surprised that he did not appear lame after it. I knew he would definitely not be unhurt from such a fall. He was assessed by the Physio and an Osteopath and nothing too bad was found - I was surprised. A little time off and gentle in-hand exercise for a few weeks with a careful return to work is the plan.

In March Charles de Kunffy was at the TTT to do his annual clinic and demonstration. We are so lucky to get to meet and learn from Charles so regularly. He extended his UK visit this month to also teach in Oxford, so I went to another super training day at Dovecote Stables in Oxford with some clients.

Andrew Murphy, Charles de Kunffy and Gerd Heuschmann came together for the first time to give an inspiring day of lectures, discussion and demonstrations on Classical Training. As always, these informative days show why it is so important to understand the biomechanics of horse and rider and to adhere to classical principles.




Andrew Murphy, Charles de Kunffy and Gerd Heuschmann at Dovecote

JANUARY 2015

Since last September I have been very busy helping family and doing executors duties. Ligero has been ticking over in his work and we have been chilling out at home. Work has been steady and rewarding, with horses and riders making good progress over the last few months.

As mentioned in my last news, I had a few more clinics and a competition before the winter set in. Our last competition was a bit of a disaster - Ligero was very unsettled and not like his usual happy self. Disappointing, but we can all have a bad day and that was one of them. A few days later we were on a training clinic at the TTT and Ligero was super.

In October we were very lucky to get places on a 2 day clinic with Stephen Clarke again at the TTT. Stephen is always so helpful and encouraging. He treats every horse and rider as a valued partnership, and gets great results with his training. Ligero has continued to develop more collection in his canter work and feel very happy in himself.

There are many training days and clinics coming up at the TTT in Shamley Green, Surrey ( www.ttttrust.com ) and at The Dovecote Stables in Chipping Norton, Oxford ( www.equinethos.co.uk ).

Please do look up their websites for what's on. They both offer spectators an opportunity to watch lessons and lectures with brilliant trainers from Europe and America. There is so much to learn and these training days are an inspiring way to learn from trainers with high standards in correct Classical Horsemanship.

I have some new clinic venues to teach at in 2015 and I'm looking forward to meeting new clients and their horses. Please check out the 'Clinic Page' for details.

So, as we look forward to the Spring and having fun with our horses, here is a quote from one of my clients 'it's not all about competition, it's about the journey'.

Wishing you all a very Happy New Year.

Debbie


JUNE - SEPTEMBER 2014

It has been a lovely summer and I've kept very busy teaching, training and competing. Ligero has been much more confident and he has been averaging 65% in Elementary tests. There always seems to be something that will spook him in the arena, but, generally he has been much better. With many marks of 7 and 8, it's frustrating when he loses attention and marks. He could do so well if he would just stay with me all the time. Having said that, he has been improving every time we have been out.

We went to the Iberian Performance show at Merrist Wood on 24th August. Ligero won his showing class for Ridden Pre Gelding. He did feel great that day and seems to enjoy being in the arena with other horses.

We did qualify for the Area Festivals at Elementary and went to Pachesham on the 25th August to compete. I think we were both a bit tired from the day before and it was a horrid wet windy day. We came 10th with 65.6%. I know we could have done much better but I went wrong in my test and it disturbed Ligero.



We had a super clinic with Charles de Kunffy in early September and also participated in the evening Lecture Demonstration. Charles had me introducing some piaffe work in our training sessions and Ligero felt like he had found a new gear on this clinic. He feels so much stronger and confident in his work. I was very pleased with him in the demonstration as he didn't spook at the gallery full of people !

In September we will be at the TTT for a few days of training and have one more competition.

There is a programme of training at the TTT from now through to December. Spectators are very welcome. Check out their website for details TTT.




FEBRUARY - MAY 2014

The wet start to the year continued and the first training clinic that we were to attend was cancelled the day before due to the indoor school flooding! February went very quickly and the weather was not encouraging for making too many plans, especially when you have a grey horse who may need a bath. Having said that, Ligero does stay very clean most of the time.

In March I took Ligero to the TTT to ride on the Charles de Kunffy Clinic and we took part in Charles Trainers Day Demonstration. These, as always, were very helpful sessions and Charles gave us much to work on. Spectators are welcome at all the Clinics at the TTT and there is a busy annual programme. There is a Training Day with lectures and demonstrations on 2nd June - check out the website for details TTT.

As the weather began to improve I felt it was time to get out and compete in late April. All ready to go and Ligero caught his shoe and ended up a bit foot sore for a few days. This happened the day before and I had to withdraw. Very disappointing, but that's life with horses!

Ligero was back on form in time for 2 days training with Stephen Clarke in May. He felt great and worked with much more confidence. My favourite comment from Stephen was "your horse



Schooling Falik. She is a Norwegian Fjord who is recovering from an injury. It is the first time that I have worked with this breed. They are very versatile gentle horses and Falik is part of a special team used for equine assisted therapy for people with special needs.

Photo by Christian Doyle

looks really happy in his work". That means more to me than winning a competition any day. It is such a privilege to get to train with these international trainers and much can be learnt from watching the lessons too.

We then had a last minute place on another Clinic the following week with Alex Cookson at the TTT. We continued working on from our clinic with Stephen, which was to improve the quality of the canter. Alex is always very constructive and has an understanding approach to training sensitive horses.

We managed to get to our first competition of the year and did 2 Elementary tests, coming 3rd and 6th on just over 65% in them both. Ligero wasn't 100% with me and lost marks for some tension and spooking. Overall, I was very pleased with our first outing since last summer and we just need to get back into it.

May ends with a day training with Gerd Heuschmann at Dovecote on the 31st.


Coming Up at Equinethos Ltd 
View this email in your browser
31st May 2.30pm
Dr Gerd Heuschmann
"How Understanding Biomechanics Enhances Sport Horse Performance" Lecture
6th June 6pm - 9pm Masterson Method Massage Lecture.  An Introduction to the Masterson Method a unique, interactive method of equine massage.
 
31st May - 1st June
Dr Gerd Heuschmann
Two day Training Clinic for all Levels
of Horse and Rider.
 
5,6,7th July Charles De Kunffy Training Clinic and Daily Seminar. An insightful opportunity to either train bring your horses for training or attend a 3 hour daily seminar
Dates for Your Diary 
We are very pleased to confirm an impressive line
up of notable trainers and equestrian experts will be joining us at The Dovecote Stables, Oxford in the coming weeks.

During the next 6 weeks we are so pleased to confirm that Dr Gerd Heuschmann will be returning to The Dovecote and will be hosting a two day training clinic and also a lecture on Sat 31st May "How understanding biomechanics enhances Sport Horse Performance" 

This will be closely followed 6th June by a "hands on" evening lecture by Jim Masterson, introducing The Masterson Method, an insightful massage treatment which focusses on assessing the equine response throughout the treatment. Places for a two training clinic on 7th & 8th June can also be booked through 
https://www.mastersonmethod.com/

Finally on the 5,6,7th July Charles De Kunffy will be offering training for horse and rider and also a daily lecture from 9am - 12pm.


For further information on both booking a training session or confirming a ticket to one of the lectures please contact 
Emily J Baker
Equinethos Ltd,
The Dovecote Stables,
T- 07775 810585
E - claire@creativeequine.co.uk

Copyright © *2014* *Equinethos Ltd*, All rights reserved.


Our mailing address is:
equinethos@gmail.com

 



OCTOBER 2013 - JANUARY 2014

I've had a quiet autumn and winter with Ligero. The stormy wet weather has made training difficult and he has been ticking over in light work for the last few months. I don't have any outings planned until the spring.

Much of my work recently has been remedial referrals. It is a very rewarding part of my work and I really enjoy helping the horses and owners get back on track.

The clinics at Bridge House will start up again in March ( see the clinic page for dates ). I would like to do more clinics and I am happy to travel to other areas to do them. If you have any ideas for future clinics, please let me know.

I wish you all a very Happy New Year and look forward to helping you with your horses in 2014.



AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2013

At the beginning of August Ligero began to feel very tense when being ridden and I was concerned that he was in trouble. He was normal in his behaviour in all aspects of handling and looked very sound on the lunge. His saddle appeared fine too, but, it had fallen from a low saddle rack that had not been secured well enough. I asked my saddler to check it, and although it appeared to be perfectly fine, she took it away to have it checked inside. To my horror, but also relief as it meant Ligero was sound, they found the tree to be damaged. Fortunately, I was able to use another saddle from a friend that fitted Ligero well and he has been fine. This is a good example of why we must always listen to our horses and work out what is wrong.

We attended the Iberian Performance Show at Merrist Wood held over the August bank holiday weekend. I withdrew from the dressage as Ligero had not been in full work due to the saddle problem, but, felt he was up to doing one show class. We did the Ridden PRE Gelding Showing Class and he was placed second. It was a well organised show with a very good turnout. PRE and Lusitano horses came from all over the country. I think it will become a popular annual show for the Iberians.

In September I enjoyed a few more training days with Gerd Heuschmann and Charles de Kunffy and decided to wait for my saddle to be repaired before planning any further outings with Ligero.

In the last few months I have met new clients that have had very bad saddle problems. There is now such a huge market and mass production of saddles that perhaps not so much attention to detail is being made. As with anything we buy, it is unfortunate if we get a faulty item, and no one has intentionally sold us something that we will need to return. The problem is, saddle faults are not always very noticeable. Saddle fitting can be tricky too, especially if the rider is not very experienced. I always say to people, just because a saddle appears to fit, doesn't mean that your horse will find it comfortable - if you try on 4 pairs of shoes, all your size and they all fit, there may only be one pair that you feel really comfortable in. As the owner and rider, we have to feel if it is really the right one for our balance and the horses comfort. A less experienced rider will find this difficult and the saddler has to do the best they can at that time.

One client I met recently was having trouble with her balance and was concerned that her legs kept going forward. Her horse was also uncomfortable on the left rein and this had been investigated by the vet, who gave the horse the all clear. The saddle had been checked on the advice of the vet and everything appeared fine, so could it be the rider? Fair enough comment, it often is, and with a little adjustment to position and balance, a horse will improve dramatically. I rode the horse and my first impression was that the saddle made me feel very heavy into the base of the pommel, and then in trot the saddle was encouraging my legs forward. The horse became tense on the left rein and easier to ride to the right. We found a different saddle to try and both the horse and rider stopped struggling. They have since been trainable together, the rider is more comfortable in herself and the horse is working through on the left rein.

Below are two photographs of a saddle that was being used on a horse with a similar problem. The horse who had been wearing this saddle has now got some muscle wastage on one side where it had been compensating in its work. It has now been wearing a different saddle and is happy in training with the muscles working evenly again.

When I go to a new client I will assess everything I see to the best of my ability. This is because I want both the horse and rider to enjoy their training and be able to progress.

It is necessary to cast an eye over the whole picture, hoof balance and bridle fitting are also issues to assess. Much time, money and heartache can be avoided if care is taken in all these areas along with good stable management. You can get so much more out of your lessons and time with your horse if you give this some thought.



JUNE - JULY 2013

In June I took Ligero to another affiliated competition and he felt much more confident. He still spooked in his tests, but, was generally more with me and gained 64.07%.

At the Iberian Festival at Pachesham he won the ridden PRE gelding class and gained 66.55% in his first elementary test.


We then had a short break from outings until our family trip to the Cotswolds for the Gerd Heuschmann and Charles de kunffy Seminar. It was like a holiday. The weather was warm and sunny everyday and my husband George, dog, Ligero and myself had a great time.


We drove up on the Friday morning to avoid the Friday afternoon traffic and arrived at lunch time. The venue was stunning, as you can see from the photos, beautiful views all around. Photos were not allowed to be taken during the demonstrations and lectures, so there are no photos of us in action in the indoor school.

Ligero was very comfortable in his luxury stable, while we camped for 3 nights in the horsebox.

The weekend was very inspiring, Charles and Gerd worked well together as they discussed and lectured on Classical Training. Everything was explained very clearly and with much emphasis on the well being of the horse. Ligero and I were one of several partnerships that took part in the demonstrations. A variety of horses and riders were used. Novice and experienced riders, TBs, Partbreds, Warmbloods, Iberians, Dressage, Eventer and Remedial horses. This enabled Charles and Gerd to discuss and show how Classical training relates to all, and produced supple horses working confidently into a soft contact.


I think everyone enjoyed it, made new friends and went home inspired.

JANUARY - MAY 2013

It was a very long wet winter, and like many people with horses and no indoor school, I just continued training when the weather allowed. I took Ligero training to the TTT in February and March, it was great to get out and do some training indoors in the cold weather.

In April we went out to do our first affiliated dressage competition. Ligero felt really good in the working in, so, I was very disappointed when he spent the whole test spooking at the markers! Our second outing was better and he came home with 3 points, still losing marks for his spooking, but staying with me more.

We had another training clinic in May and two more affiliated tests. Ligero was much more settled this month and gained another four points. It is very frustrating at times with Ligero as he is so capable of doing a good test. He has always been a very sharp, sensitive horse and I have to be extremely patient with him. I hope we will do better together in competition as he gains more experience in working in new surroundings.

June will be busy with a few more affiliated outings and the Iberian Festival at Pachesham EC. The Iberian Festival is being sponsored by Alex Gache, Lomond Classical Training Centre. I like to take Ligero to this as Alex rescued Ligero from a field about 4 years ago and is responsible for our partnership!



Photo courtesy of bertaimages.co.uk



Photo courtesy of bertaimages.co.uk


Coming up in July - This will be a super presentation and it is a lovely venue. Charles will be staying on to do two more days of lectures and lessons on the 22nd and 23rd July. Places are limited so please apply early if you want to go.

20-21 July 2013

'Why classical equitation is a science'

Charles de Kunffy and Dr Gerd Heuschmann present two days of discussion, seminars and demos at:

The Dovecote Stables,
Churchill,
Oxfordshire
OX7 6NG

Contact Emily Baker at www.equinethos.com for more details.



Charles de Kunffy



Dr Gerd Heuschmann


NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2012

November seemed to fly by and Ligero made a good recovery in time for our last clinic of this year. It was with Stephen Clarke in early December and it was great to get out after the 6 weeks of fittening at home. Ligero, as always, felt happy and energised by our two days away. We had two super lessons from Stephen and hopefully the winter won't make it difficult to continue our training.

This has been an inspiring year, and I hope we will now begin to see more thoughtful training and management of dressage horses because of Carl Hester's success. At this years BD convention Carl showed how all the horses had to work through and confidently forward into the contact. He talked about his yard management and the importance of hacking and turning out the horses to keep them healthier, both mentally and physically. As people like to follow successful riders, this is good news for the dressage horse.

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and a great New Year.


JULY - OCTOBER 2012

The months seem to have flown by. The Olympics were great fun and, like many people, I found myself watching all kinds of sport and not getting much done ! We were at the Olympics on the last day of the team Dressage and it was a day to always remember.

At the end of August I spent two days training with Gerd Heuschmann at the Unicorn Trust. This has become an annual event and thanks must go to Emily Baker for organising his visits to England. Emily has extra dates planned for next year and I will let you know when they are confirmed.

September started well. Stephen Clarke did an evening presentation at the TTT. This was a great success and it was fun to hear what went on behind the scenes at the Olympics. The following day I had a lesson with Stephen and Ligero felt his best ever !

Ligero moved up a level in his work, and a week later we had a demanding Clinic with Charles de Kunffy. Charles saw the change in Ligero and worked us quite hard to give me 'homework' to progress on with.

During this clinic I was awarded a generous Training Bursary. I was very flattered and delighted to receive it.

I travelled up to watch the National Championships on the 16th and that afternoon Ligero slipped badly in the field. He injured himself and was off ridden work for a month. He has had to have regular physio treatments and remedial lunging work to recover. He started ridden exercise on the 16th October and will come back into work slowly over the next 4 - 6 weeks.

I had planned on taking him to his first affiliated Dressage competition in October, but it will now be in late November, subject to the weather.

I am looking forward to training with Stephen in December, when Ligero should be back in full work.

MAY - JUNE 2012

Despite the disappointing summer weather I have been having fun with Ligero and, as always, enjoying my work.

We attended three training clinics and competed at the Iberian Show at Pachesham Equestrian Centre. Ligero is becoming much more secure in his 'throughness' and this is helping to reduce his spooking. He feels great in his body and very happy. I was very proud of him at the Show and he seems to love working around other horses. He won the Novice Dressage test on 68.96% and the showing class for ridden PRE geldings and mares.

I have just affiliated him with BD, but may not be able to get out competing until late August. The next month or two will be busy and we need a new horsebox !

Looking forward to the Olympics in August and in late August/September, Gerd Heuschmann will be back for 4 days at the Unicorn Trust Equestrian Centre, Stow on the Wold. For details contact info@equinethos.com

Also for your diary - Sunday 2nd September at the TTT - An evening with Stephen Clarke reviewing the Olympic Dressage. Details at TTT



Ligero competing at PEC 17/6/12 - Photo taken by bertaimages



Training with Stephen Clarke 5th and 6th June


MARCH - APRIL 2012

I had a disappointing start to March with Ligero having a virus four days before a training clinic with Charles de Kunffy. He had to have the week off. I still attended the clinic as much can be gained from watching the other lessons, and it's always nice to catch up with other trainers and friends.

The following week I travelled to Switzerland to meet up with a client and very good friend, who had just moved there from England. We then travelled to southern Germany, to visit Anja Berans yard - Gut Rosenhof. My clients horse was staying there for a few months while a suitable yard was found in Switzerland. We had a lovely three days watching the training and it was a very interesting and beautiful place to visit. The atmosphere there was so relaxed and peaceful. We heard no raised voices, saw no one rushing, all the horses and other animals were very content. It was a calming environment for anyone there. I learnt much from the experience.

March continued to be a busy month with a two day training seminar with Gerd Heuschmann on my return ! It is always interesting listening to Gerd and he has a new presentation on 'balance' which helped people understand the problems that can


Debbie, Anja Beran, Elling and Anja Fragodt at Gut Rosenhof

occur if 'straightness' is not understood. He has a new book out which will be available in english in July.

Not so busy in April. Ligero is feeling great and fully recovered from his virus. We attended a two day training clinic at the TTT with Herwig Radnetter from the Spanish Riding School of Vienna. Herwig saw Ligero a year ago and was pleased with his progress. He remembered how nervous Ligero was when he first saw him and it was great to be able to show a much more confident Ligero, secure in his outline, looking stronger in his body and more trainable. We had a super two days and were lucky with the weather, which enabled us to also enjoy some beautiful hacking after the lessons.



JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2012

Winter training had been going well and I was looking forward to my first outing of the year with Ligero at the beginning of February. The snow came two days before we were due to attend a training clinic at the TTT and it had to be cancelled.

Fortunately I managed to make a track in my school that enabled me to keep Ligero lightly exercised until the snow cleared.

Alex Swainson and I held another two Dismounted Workshops in Shalford and these were well attended. It was the first winter that we have held the workshops in a hall and it has worked very well. In the warmer weather we will do some more outdoor workshops and include a ridden demonstration.

March will be a busy month with several training days to attend and clients doing more with their horses.

Check out the TTT website for what's on. Spectators welcome.


NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2011

My new saddle arrived at the end of October and was worth the wait. Ligero feels so comfortable and is really working through his body. I am looking forward to getting out in the new year to the training clinics and some competitions.

I am very grateful to Kay Humphries for making such lovely saddles and taking the time to ensure that both the horse and rider are really comfortable together. I am delighted with mine.

Alex Swainson and I held an evening Workshop in November which went very well. We will be doing two more in January and February 2012 in the Shalford Village Hall. Please contact me if you are interested. Emails will be sent out to those of you who have been before. The workshops are fun and a nice way to meet other riders and make new friends.

I had a lovely surprize for Christmas from a group of clients who presented me with a wireless communication system. I have wanted one for years and it is a very generous and perfect gift. I have been using it for work, it makes teaching outside so much easier and the clients are enjoying it too. I am very grateful and will be using it most of the time when I am teaching and helping in the warm up at competitions.

I would like to wish you all a lovely Christmas and a very happy and fun new year.

AUGUST - OCTOBER 2011

31st August - 3rd September I travelled to Stow on the Wold for four days of training with Gerd Heuschmann at the Unicorn Trust. It was good fun as well as educational. Several clients came along too and we stayed at a local B & B.

As always, Gerd captivated his audience with his 4hr presentation on the Wednesday evening, and then the following 3 days were horse assessments, training and demonstrations.

Thanks to Emily Baker - www.equinethos.com for organising another super 4 days of training with Gerd. We are all looking forward to the follow up next year.

Next years dates have already been arranged, 29th August - 1st September 2012. Venue to be confirmed in Oxfordshire.

Ligero has been working very well and due to his development, his saddle has had to be changed. This has caused a frustrating break in his ridden training and we have missed 3 clinics while we wait for his new one to arrive. He has been worked in-hand and on the lunge to maintain his fitness and continue his training until the saddle comes, hopefully by the end of October !


MAY - JUNE 2011

Ligero and I have been out training to three clinics in the last two months and I am very pleased with his progress. He is such a pleasure to work with and he feels very comfortable and happy to ride. I took him to the Iberian Festival at Pachesham EC on 19th June and he won both his classes. I didn't expect that on our first time out so it was a very happy day !

In June we had two Dismounted Workshops and another one in July. We are featured in the June and July issues of Horse and Rider Magazine. The articles are on how Tai Chi principles can help your riding.

July and August - Work is busy, it's holiday time, Hickstead International is on and Gerd is back 31st August. Just going to enjoy the summer and try and fit everything in.



Ligero competing at Pachesham EC 19/06/11

NOVEMBER 2010 - MARCH 2011

Despite the difficult winter I managed to keep Ligero in training and he has gained in confidence. We attended clinics at the TTT with Alex Cookson, Andrew Murphy and Stephen Clarke. These have been a valuable part of his education and a good way of testing his confidence and level of work away from home. At each clinic he became more focused and less concerned about things around him, venturing closer to the spectator gallery!

We are due to attend two more clinics in May.

I also managed to have another training day with Gerd Heuschmann in Oxford, and one of my clients had a great time participating on his 3 day clinic. It was great to have his input on how we have been working her horse and he gave us encouragement to keep going with our remedial work.


MOORCROFT RACEHORSE WELFARE CENTRE

We did our last workshop of the year at Moorcroft on 27th November 2010.

Despite the cold we all had a good day, the sun did shine, so although we had use of the lovely new indoor school, we did the workshop outside. This enabled Horse and Rider Magazine to take some photographs and we are delighted that they came along to see what we do. Thank you to all those that participated and braved the cold, and to Mary who made us all feel very welcome and kept us supplied with tea & coffee throughout. All the proceeds from the day went to the Centre.

We will be returning to Moorcroft in 2011 to do some more workshops.

Check out their website www.mrwc.org.uk


SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2010

Dr.Gerd Heuschmann Presentation and Clinic


I first heard Gerd Heuschmann lecture in 2004 at The Young Horse Seminar held at Hartpury College. I have attended his lectures annually since then and can highly recommend them. This year I was fortunate to get to his Presentation and Clinic at the Unicorn Trust, Stow on the Wold for two days in September with one of my clients, and then again in October at the TTT.

Gerd is a Veterinary Surgeon who has specialised in equine orthopaedics, been head of the breeding department at the German Equestrian Federation and is a trained Bereiter. He has his own Veterinary Clinic in Warendorf and lectures all over the world. His Presentation ' The horses anatomy determines its way of training ' is a very inspiring, thought provoking lecture on the bio-mechanics of the horse. Using computer projections he gives a clear explanation of the advantages and disadvantages of different training philosophies. The background of the classical riding principals is based on this bio-mechanical knowledge.

He also works with riders and their horses to clearly show the effect of good training and the importance of the rider having a good seat.



Training with Gerd Heuschmann at the Unicorn Trust. Emily Baker, Debbie, Anja Fragodt with her horse Elling and Gerd

Every year he brings new research to his presentations and holds the attention of his audience throughout.

We never stop learning and I am grateful to Gerd for speaking out for the good of the horse, and giving so much of his time to educate us.

I can highly recommend his book - Tug of War - Classical versus "modern" Dressage. Why classical training works and how incorrect riding negatively affects horses' health. Also his DVD - If horses could speak - this has a great 3-D animation which makes the principles discussed in his book very clear.

Gerd will be back at the TTT next year.

www.gerdheuschmann.com


JULY 2010

A BIG THANK YOU

I would like to say a ' Big Thank You ' to Sue Dennis, Lynne Leeder and Maureen Moss for their sponsorship this year for my new horse - Ligero, and to Anne Simmonds for her contribution towards new training mirrors for the school. Thank you all.



LIGERO - My new horse is a purebred Andalusian, grey, 9 year old gelding.

He has settled in very well and is a joy to train. He is a very sensitive horse who was so spooky about everything when I first met him, that I wondered if I would ever get him to concentrate! He came to England in '08 and had to be rescued from a field where he had suffered neglect later in the year. It took most of '09 to get weight back on him and be able to begin to train him. I did some work with him at this time for Alex Gache. I enjoyed working with him so much that I bought him in July. Thanks to Alex for rescuing him and matching us up !

He is becoming much more confident and getting stronger in his body after such trauma. I am hoping to compete him next year, but, he needs time and patience, so we will have to wait and see.