This week in dressage lessons we will be assessing leg yields to see if horses (and riders) are ready to compete at first level test 2 or higher, and to get a better feel of just how much angle is needed to compete at that level. We may also run through some of the training and first level test 1 tests, and work on lengthening (longer, not quicker).
Riders who want to go to the Westwood Warmbloods show should decide soon. Keep in mind I am planning to take Coregel so may not be able to read for riders.
In jumping lessons we will be doing more of a hunter type course (single, side, diagonal, side, single on the diagonal or variations thereof!). Brace yourself for the new jumps...they are...different ;)
Hunter courses require a nice forward canter, with a soft seat, good release, nice corners, and straight lines. The horse should look quiet yet focused, and get to the jumps slightly long to give them the best chance to jump nicely (this is why hunter jumps often have very generous fill and groundlines). Riders should be giving with their arms, soft with their seats, and allow the horse to jump up and round, but be ready to get them deep into their corners and set up for the lead change; either flying or simple.
In other news:
Michelle (the bringer of the new jumps) is back, and with her she brings Spooky and Warrior. Both horses have been here before, so don't be suprised if you recognize either of them. Spooky is hard to forget being a Clydesdale and all!
On sad news, Stinky Paige took her last lesson on Wednesday. She is off to school in BC in the fall, and has a busy summer ahead, so is moving on. I am sad to see her go, and also sad she didn't warn me it was her last lesson...I missed an excuse for cupcakes! Many fond memories of Paige....riding Bugsy, playing soccer with Ginger, and really getting Rocket going to the jumps. Good times. I wish Paige good luck and hope she is able to ride again one day!
Karen
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hi all! if anyone has spare time and would like to contribute to spooky's weight loss plan, let me know...she is available for rides, lunging, long walks on the beach...if you ever wanted a pony ride on a hairy, floofy, MAJESTIC couch made of jello, now's your chance!
also, question karen, for lesson...
my horse seems to need "support" to and over a fence, or he jumps flat and knocks rails with his hinds...how can i give a nice hunter-y release but still keep him packaged? Is this the real difference between a born hunter and a jumper? Is my release still broken?
Jello horses are the best kind of horses! We will dare Joan to ride her...
Will have to watch the chestnut beast jump, but it could just be he is so used to you supporting him that he expects/needs it, that you are openning up too soon, or that he is trying to protect his front end from the land and trying to bring his hinds under him too early. Canter poles on the land could help.
Joan! You'll love Spook. Fun to ride! Fantastic "down" transitions! Helpful four-or-five stride acceleration into the canter (she needs to make sure you really, really want it before committing...)
If that doesn't sell you, just check out her TACK...Warrior's colour is Orange, but Spook's is "Safety Blue"...
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