Monday, December 04, 2006

USEA Outreach Clinic

Sara Kozumplik-Dierks and Eric Dierks were at Rocking Horse Stables this weekend helping pony clubbers with cross country training and informing them of the opportunities they have with Young Riders and the USEA instructor certification program (ICP). Both instructors are ICP level 3, A graduate pony clubbers and 4 star eventers. Ashley and Vanessa rode with Sara and have these great tips to share:


Because of the way your horses eyes are placed on his head it is very important to give them a straight approach and a good look at the jump. Look at the middle of the jump where you intend to go until you lose sight of that spot between their ears. Don't look down, just make it clear exactly where you would like them to go.



There is a cruising position which allows you and your horse to stay balanced but also indicates to your horse that he is not jumping. He can relax and not be concerned that something is coming up and your not telling him what it is. (I don't have a photo of that position but ask Ash or Vanessa to show you what they learned.) Then as you approach the jump and need to adjust your stride you get in the presentation position which is what Ashley is doing below. You raise up "like a sail' weight in your heels, hands on neck not pulling against the horse. Sara said to watch videos of William Fox-Pitt to see incredible presentation. When going down a bank let your hands slide to the knot that you have made at the buckle. Remember that your heels need to be pressed down and your hips pressed forward (not shoulders back.)
Learn to ride with steady rhythm, balance and confidence so your horse learns to trust you.Nice job girls...hey where did you get those nerd ropes!?
Oh I cant leave out the part about the great "follow the leader" game.


I couldn't tell who was having more fun- the girls or the ponies.

1 comment:

Ashley said...

wow i really like the pic of absolute and nessa over the shrooms, very impressive =]