By Dana Pier
There was a break between the snow and the rain just long enough for Saybrook Farm in Eads, TN to host a two-day clinic with eventer Allison Springer. Allison, a Pony Club graduate and veteran CCI**** rider, has been named to the USET developing rider team several times. She and her horse Arthur have competed on the international stage; placed 14th in the 2009 Rolex Three Day Event; and were named as alternates for the 2010 World Equestrian Games.
Eleven riders came to learn from Allison, five of whom travelled from Little Rock, Arkansas. Most were Eventers, but the Hunter/Jumper discipline was well represented, too. The age range of riders was as diverse as their skill levels; but none of this hindered Allison's lesson program.
The first day focused on flatwork, a well thought out grid, followed by a series of jumps setup on a circle. These exercises proved to be a challenge for many of the horse/ rider pairs. The flatwork focused on collection and balance, with much time spent at the sitting trot and counter canter. This work is integral to making proper, balanced turns during the circle exercise. This exercise taught the riders to concentrate and be patient. A common problem is rushing fences, which causes many riders to make poorly negotiated turns or miss their next fence.
The second day was a continuation of the ideas set forth in day one. The jump course consisted of a bending line of oxers, to a one-stride, to a three-stride, and back to the oxer line. The horses were required to remain collected and alert as they met tight turns and scary jumps throughout the course.
The improvements made by both horses and riders were fantastic to witness! All riders were pleased with their success and left feeling empowered by what they had learned.
Allison was a pleasure to work with. She was very professional and clear in her instructions. She offered plenty of constructive criticism and was never short on compliments. Her teaching was very well rounded, with the safety and happiness of the horse being her top priority.
Saybrook plans to have Allison back for another clinic February 19 and 20. Contact Dana Pier (901) 230-6625 if you would like to participate or audit. More information can be found at: www.saybrookfarm.net
There was a break between the snow and the rain just long enough for Saybrook Farm in Eads, TN to host a two-day clinic with eventer Allison Springer. Allison, a Pony Club graduate and veteran CCI**** rider, has been named to the USET developing rider team several times. She and her horse Arthur have competed on the international stage; placed 14th in the 2009 Rolex Three Day Event; and were named as alternates for the 2010 World Equestrian Games.
Eleven riders came to learn from Allison, five of whom travelled from Little Rock, Arkansas. Most were Eventers, but the Hunter/Jumper discipline was well represented, too. The age range of riders was as diverse as their skill levels; but none of this hindered Allison's lesson program.
The first day focused on flatwork, a well thought out grid, followed by a series of jumps setup on a circle. These exercises proved to be a challenge for many of the horse/ rider pairs. The flatwork focused on collection and balance, with much time spent at the sitting trot and counter canter. This work is integral to making proper, balanced turns during the circle exercise. This exercise taught the riders to concentrate and be patient. A common problem is rushing fences, which causes many riders to make poorly negotiated turns or miss their next fence.
The second day was a continuation of the ideas set forth in day one. The jump course consisted of a bending line of oxers, to a one-stride, to a three-stride, and back to the oxer line. The horses were required to remain collected and alert as they met tight turns and scary jumps throughout the course.
The improvements made by both horses and riders were fantastic to witness! All riders were pleased with their success and left feeling empowered by what they had learned.
Allison was a pleasure to work with. She was very professional and clear in her instructions. She offered plenty of constructive criticism and was never short on compliments. Her teaching was very well rounded, with the safety and happiness of the horse being her top priority.
Saybrook plans to have Allison back for another clinic February 19 and 20. Contact Dana Pier (901) 230-6625 if you would like to participate or audit. More information can be found at: www.saybrookfarm.net
