Saturday, October 11, 2008

I went to my old barn, Brightonwood to watch a clinic by Cindy Sydnor. Boy, am I ever glad I did. First it was great to see rider and horses working in the upper levels, trot half pass, canter half pass and flying changes. Oh, to see these horses dance. Mind you there were a few explosions but the riders stuck with it.

I want to try raising my stirrups up a notch and see if that increases my ability to apply aids and sit me back on my butt more than on the point of the triangle. Let's see if I remember. Josie isn't too fond of me making changes to the saddle once it is on. She is getting better about it.

I watched my friend MJ ride before the clinic. I cannot believe the difference in her horse. I call him Buster 8.0. It is just amazing. I have always admired that MJ could handle him. I had my share of a horse like that with Senda. It can be nerve racking and just takes the joy out of riding. With Josie I don't have to worry so much although she has put a shy in here and there. The more mileage she gets the less things she will react to.

Back to the clinic, Cindy is a very good instructor, she sees things and can help you with a change in position or an exercise to get across to your horse what you are attempting to do. She can be a little sharp, too. There were a few "where are you going" or "what are you doing!". It is a bit fun to hear your instructor receive the criticisms you hear like quit being so busy with your hands, lower your hands, don't move your upper body so much. K took it all in stride. S was awesome. Sabrina is a beautiful mover and S has done great work with her.

I had intended to watch a couple rides but ended up staying the entire day and was invited to dinner to hear a lecture by Cindy. She had some pictures which she had drawn lines and circles on. The point of the hip and the bit circles should be in line. I asked how about with a young horse and the answer was no but as training was done it would if she is moving correctly. The point of the hip with a circle around the foot when say trotting should line up. The line going from the hip to the foot with it being in line. It was very interesting see different pictures with these differences in them. Little more eye education and something to watch for in the mirrors.