on a journey with his human to FEI Level Dressage
Fritz and I are pretty excited, we were selected to ride in the USDF Region 5 Kathy Connelly & Betsy Steiner clinic. Out of 22 applicants, only 8 were selected. I feel honored to be among those 8! Only a little over 2 weeks away before the clinic to prepare! *deep breaths* Did I mention Read More …
Grand Prix Dressage is the highest level of dressage. It is the level that the Olympians Compete At. As with all levels of dressage, it is judged based on each movement (or question asked) the horse and ride combination perform. There are also collective marks (marks that take into consideration the entire picture throughout the Read More …
To show at Training Level (Revision 2015) you and your horse need to be proficient at a handful of movements. I will outline the movements required for Training Level Test One below. I will also break out the other 2 tests in Training Level and what is added to those tests. Training Level Test One Read More …
So you are thinking of moving up from Training Level to First Level. Congrats!! Below I will outline what is required in the 2015 First Level tests (and the difference between the 3 tests) to help you understand what is required of you. First let’s recap the Training Level Test 3: Working Trot Halt H-X-K Read More …
Rider medals (bronze, silver, and gold) are awarded based on attaining the required scores at the necessary levels. Today we will discuss the Gold Medal. The Gold medal is awarded based on upper Level test scores. You must acquire four scores of 60% or higher: 2 scores at Intermediate I, Intermediate A, Intermediate B, and/or Intermediate II Level (2 different Read More …
Rider medals (bronze, silver, and gold) are awarded based on attaining the required scores at the necessary levels. Today we will discuss the Bronze Medal. The Bronze medal is awarded based on First-Third Level test scores. You must acquire six scores of 60% or higher: 2 scores at First Level (2 different rides & 2 Read More …
It sounds like a laughable concept right? It sure feels like it sometimes!! BUT: IT CAN BE DONE! With some self control 🙂 There are just a few tips below on how to try and keep moving forward in your dressage without breaking the bank. For starters; if you need a tack item (that can Read More …
Una here! I have been thinking a lot lately about the word “rideability” and what it means to me, and in the last month that definition has drastically changed. I used to think that rideability was me being able to duplicate a movement that my horse was trained to do under my trainer’s seat, even Read More …
Many equine athletes without joint issues can benefit from the use of MSM (Methyl-sulfonyl-methane) or Glucosamine for added joint lubrication, circulation and many other benefits. Glucosamine is the base of chondroitin sulfate, a specific type of polysulfated glycosaminoglycan (GAG). Glucosamine increases the production of GAGs and new cartilage, but also stops the enzymes that break Read More …
Una, Fritz’s human, here. Have you always heard the rule “2-3 wrinkles” in regards to fitting your bridle and bit? That is what I was taught when I was a kid. While that rule definitely helps you get the bit in the right approximate location, be sure to always check the placement INSIDE of the Read More …