Scotts of Thrapston

A significant step forward

Posted on 23. Jul, 2010 by Janet in Janet Hammond, Rider Development Programme

For once I think Tara was genuinely pleased to see me – obviously trailing round in circles on the horsewalker twice a day did not inspire her!

This week I brought Tara back into ridden exercise gradually, starting with a couple of hacks and a gentle schooling session.

The rest of the week was focussed on dressage. I decided to do a training clinic rather than a dressage competition at the weekend, and had a great session with Alison Kenward (Solitaire Dressage) at Wing Jumping & Dressage Centre (thank you to Gail Warren for squeezing my lesson into the Dressage to Music training day – which by the way I definitely want to have a go at over the winter, it looks such fun).

Tara was in her worst most unco-operative mood, spooking at anything that moved and throwing her head around as soon as I picked up the contact. I struggle to deal with this, but Alison told me to ignore the tantrums and just concentrate on lots and lots of transitions. After a while I had Tara’s attention and we managed some nice walk-trot-walk transitions and fabulous square halts.

Alison then decided to give us something different to think about and got us working on counter canter. Our initial attempts resulted in Tara offering flying changes as my aids were not clear. Alison said I shouldn’t ever tell her off for giving the change, but I had to bring her back to walk immediately and re-establish the correct canter lead. I concentrated on improving my position and aids, and also making sure that Tara’s shoulders stayed in line, and soon we were managing 20m circles at counter canter on both reins.

It felt like a significant step forward in our training, as I really had to concentrate on giving very clear aids and Tara had to be balanced and really focus on what was being asked. Our final trot work was fabulous – powerful, active and relaxed – a great way to finish! All I need to do now is learn the test for Carlton – I usually do this when I’m travelling to work. I draw the movements out on my knee – I’m sure the other commuters think I’ve gone crazy!

And finally I want to wish two friends very speedy recoveries. One had an awkward tumble at Tweseldown and broke her elbow and the other had a freak fall whilst hacking and broke her collarbone – a timely reminder that this sport brings spills as well as thrills!!!

Tags: Carlton, Tara, Tweseldown, Wing Jumping & Dressage Centre