Clinics

“Any man who selects a goal in life which can be fully achieved has already defined his own limitations.” ~Cavett Robert

Clinics can be an opportunity to meet like-minded horsemen and spend some quality time with our horses. We problem solve, we discuss and debate, and we all look to add a little bit (or a lot!) to what we all already know.

I think of myself as a horsemanship instructor. To me, horsemanship is the art of riding, working with, caring for and being in relationship with the horse. So this is the glass through which I choose to see my work. Although I have a good deal of experience with jumping horses, today my teaching is pretty non-dogmatic and I draw influences from places as varied as natural horsemanship, the Vaquero tradition, classical dressage, ranching traditions and various breed and show traditions. Rather than subscribing to a particular single dogma, I see myself as a continual student of the horse and am on a tireless search for information and universal truth. I believe this quest is reflected in my teaching, and each year’s clinics reflect the current themes in my own horsemanship journey.

Photo courtesy of Ruth Dickens

Photo by Tina Handerhan

Photo by Lori Stone

Photo by Joan Gemme

What to expect
Some clinic sponsors will arrange a get-together for the evening before the clinic starts so we can all get to know each other before getting started with the horses. Whether at a get-together or when we meet at the clinic, my first question to you will likely be, “Please tell me a little about you and your horse.” My second question will be, “What can I help you with?” My goal will be to help you with what you feel you need help with. I will encourage you to do as much of your own work as you can, though I am happy to demonstrate certain cues, movements or help get the horse or person past a sticky spot if necessary. I rarely ride students’ horses. I will occasionally work with a troubled or stuck horse myself. My goal is to adjust to fit the situation as much as possible. There are no silly questions, whether you’re a participant or a spectator!

My first priority in a clinic setting is everyone’s safety. Past that, these are some core ideas that tend to run through the work you may see or experience at a clinic:

1.     Horses are smart, willing, hardworking creatures.
2.     A quiet mind is the optimal mental state for horse and rider.
3.     Horses desire clear, concise communication and leadership.
4.     If a horse is having trouble doing what we want or need, he either can’t (physically and/or mentally) or doesn’t understand the request.
5.     Build on the good that is already present.
6.     The basics never go away. They just get more sophisticated.

All kinds of horses and riders are welcome at clinics, regardless of breed or discipline. If you’re coming to a clinic to participate with your horse, just come as you are, with your usual tack and attire. If you’re coming to spectate, bring your questions and a chair! Spectators are always welcome to ask questions at any time during a clinic.

Young or unstarted horses are welcome at clinics to do groundwork. We do not do first rides at clinics, but everything else is fair game.

Because we are working on practicing horsemanship, at a clinic we can see subjects as varied as leading and other ground work, trailer loading, any and all sorts of topics in ridden work, saddle fit, bit function, feeding practices, various management topics and soundness and functionality issues.

I think the most common comment I get about my teaching style is that I have an ability to communicate complex ideas or techniques in a simple way, making them understandable and accessible to many. I would tell you that I am a pretty straightforward person, I have a passion for horses and horsemanship and I adore language, words and the challenge of communication.

If you are interested in attending a clinic as a participant or as a spectator, please check the clinic schedule (link) and contact clinic sponsors directly for availability, pricing, driving directions and other details.

To read more about my thoughts regarding horses and horsemanship see my essay, “This I Believe”. (link)

Clinic Formats
One-on-One: The one-on-one clinic is the most common format of clinic. In this format of clinic, I work with each participant privately for about an hour a day, each day of the clinic (usually four days). This allows each participant to work on his or her individual goals or issues, either on the ground or in the saddle. Most times, these clinics showcase a wide variety of ideas and techniques due to the wide variety of participants and horses. Spectators are welcome at these clinics and may ask questions any time.

Workshop format: This is a group clinic format that is an “organic” blend of structured discussions, private lessons, small group lessons and group work sessions. Each workshop group can dictate its own format, leading to a supportive and synergistic environment. Spectators may or may not be welcome at workshop format clinics, so you’ll need to check with the clinic sponsor for details if you’re interested in watching a workshop. Workshop clinics are labeled as such on the Clinic Schedule (link)

Photo by Tina Handerhan

Sponsoring a Clinic
I always welcome invitations to do clinics! The sponsor of a clinic is responsible for providing the venue and registering participants for the clinic. All we need for a venue is a safe place to ride, a round pen, safe accommodations for the visiting horses and bathroom facilities for our visitors. Seven participants makes up a full clinic. If you are interested in discussing the possibility of a clinic in your area, e-mail me (link).

Private Instruction
I am sometimes available for private instruction. For a day rate, you can fly me in, put me up and feed me and we can work horses all day. Availability is based on scheduling. E-mail (link) me for details.

Photo by Stephanie Roundy