Dennis Callin Dressage Clinic

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Permalink Reply by Barbara F. on July 10, 2009 at 12:38pm

How was the clinic? Any great tips to share??

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Permalink Reply by Peggy Judy on July 10, 2009 at 10:17pm

The clinic went really well! The weather was gorgeous, though we had to ride in the indoor arena the first day (too much rain leading up to the clinic) but the second day it was dry and perfect in the outdoor. I have ridden with Denny for almost 15 years, originally I rode the Swedish stallion, Pehrsson. We were just getting ready for PSG.

One of the best things about Denny's style of teaching is his "matter of factness". He puts the rider at ease and makes them feel important. He remembers everyones name and talks to the rider in a friendly and casual manner. He is quick to sum up a horse and rider team and tailors the lesson to the riders level and needs.

It doesn't matter if you ride a green four year old or a seasoned GP horse...quality and purity of the gaits must come first. The rider must demand that the horse react immediately to the aids but at the same time the aids must be soft and respectful of the horse. Especially if the horse is new to the training and unsure of what the rider is asking. The exercises are kept simple and straight forward so the horse has a chance to figure out the problem and solve it successfully. Keep everything simple.

Rider's position was also crucial. If the riders position was faulty the horse could not perform the work correctly and the progress was hampered. Simple things like thumbs at the highest point had a huge effect.

The riders at this particular clinic ranged from a 10 year old rider with a third level GRP to adults schooling 2's and 1's. But across the board, we focused on quality of the gaits, correctness of horse and rider position and light, quick, calm responses to the aids.

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