For many riders who event, the cross country phase is the most exciting and fun part of the event. The dressage helps prepare the horse by teaching obedience and discipline and the show jumping tests the accuracy and fitness of the horse.
Whenever planning the cross country ride, I tell my riders to [...]
Ride your cross country course in a positive frame of mind, knowing you did your homework and have a plan. Approach each fence with rhythm, balance and follow the direction you want to go in. Keep your eyes up and focus on the course from warm up to finish line. And remember to [...]
Be prepared to walk your course several times. First with your trainer to discuss all the options and be sure to pay close attention to the footing. Notice if the terrain is flat or uneven between the fences. Take particular care to imagine riding the course in your mind, notice how to [...]
A wonderful book published in 1939 has recently been re-published for the benefit of true horsemen. Udo Burger and Otto Zietzschmann describe in clear and precise language how to succesfully train your horse so that he can enjoy a happy, healthy long life. The authors explain the physiological and psychological factors that [...]
The USPC is a valuable organization for young riders to learn proper horsemanship and excel in the discipline of their choice. The organization has been around since 1928 in England led by the Calvary Officers. Currently there are over 600 Clubs located in 48 States with over 12,000 members nationally.
The mission [...]
May 25th-28th, 2007
Fitch’s Corner is hosting the annual clinic with popular trainer, Grainne Sugars. This is a wonderful opportunity to train on Fitch’s Corners cross country jumps in preperation for the upcoming season. You will learn to improve your pace, balance and form over gymnastics and a stadium course followed by a fun [...]
Eric Horgan is scheduled to have a clinic at Larkin Hill Farm in Chatham New York on April 13-15. For information about Eric you can go to his web site at erichorgan.com. He is an excellent teacher who instills confidence and integrity in your riding.
Larkin Hill is also hosting a stadium [...]
Eventing season is well under way in the south. Spring is around the corner and the season is about to commence up here in the NorthEast. Now is the time to check all your equipment, clothing and gear in preperation for a full season ahead. Spring shots and Coggins should be taken [...]
Winter is coming to an end which means Spring is coming. The first warm up events are in April at Stonegate Farm. Mark your calandar for April 22 for a fun Cross Country School and May 20 for the Spring Jumper Derby. Check out www.stonegatecx.com for details and entry information.
The Rolex is [...]
The challenge of riding a successful cross country course is to gallop along in the open spaces and collect enough to negotiate the combinations and single obstacles with ease. A valuable excercise to meet this challenge is to set up a series of bounces with a bending line to a normal 4 strides and [...]