A video popped up on Facebook depicting a “horse training” demonstration by a world famous horseman. The friend who posted suggested that people write to the organization to voice their displeasure. The organization is not in my country, so I’m sure my voice would have no impact – but the video presents some very serious … More The measure of a horseman
When I first started trying to find my way back into the equestrian world, and struggled with how much it had changed (and not for the better), I was lucky to find Epona.tv. The two journalists who founded it had become tired of the same old celebrity promotion style of equestrian journalism, and set out … More A great resource, now free
In my equestrian library are a handful of books that I return to repeatedly – either for reference or just for the pleasure of rereading. One of these cherished books, A Horseman’s Notes by Erik Herbermann, was a suggestion by a used book seller when she did not have the book I was after. She … More Respecting the laws of Nature
Never underestimate the power of leverage on a horse’s head. A recent Facebook post, by a trainer recognized by many as upholding classical standards, showed the power leverage can have. The post was regarding a young mare and her transformation over a few short lessons. The mare traveled in an inverted fashion under her somewhat … More Leverage
My latest reading venture is Gustav Steinbrecht’s The Gymnasium of the Horse. It is often cited by those who follow classical training methods, but this is my first dive into it. Written before the turn of the twentieth century, it is both dated (the section on spur use is frightening) and “current”. This particular passage … More The noble horse …
I just finished reading a wonderful book: Mount and Man written in 1925. The author, Lt Col McTaggart, was a retired cavalry officer who clearly understood and loved horses. It’s a fascinating look into the state of riding in the United Kingdom in that era. The forward seat was still new and controversial, although apparently … More Mount and Man
Horse Crazy Once Again 