Dressage for Young Minds
Once upon a time, I was a young rider interested in dressage. Even though dressage was my preference, eventing was as close as I could get. And eventing took me, a rather social teenager, to Pony Club.
I would have preferred straight dressage, even as a teenager, if that option had been available. So it comes as no surprise I have many younger students. They are the inspiration behind my newest brainstorm - a club that brings younger dressage riders together. I want to show these kids a level of dressage they don't see every day. Then they will aspire to that level of excellence.
Gunner Ostergaard is behind us. He donated a lesson that the kids will raffle off for $5 a ticket or $20 for 5 tickets. The winner will be drawn at our upcoming Over the Hill Dressage Show, scheduled for October 19 at Red Bridge Farm.
The Over the Hill Dressage Show will be limited to riders 21 and over, with a mix of traditional schooling show classes, classes for those with limited show experience, and fix-a-test format classes for those tuning up for the BLMs the next weekend. Plus good food and entertainment during the lunch break. Keep an eye out for the prize list, as soon as the kids get it finished.
Funds from these events will be used for the group to audit clinics and participate in Lendon's Dressage For Kids in 2009. And maybe a little will go towards some social outings - we must play some, you know?
The biggest problem we are having is a name. Any one have any ideas? What do you call a bunch of kids fascinated with keeping a horse in balance and on a correct circle?
For more information and to get involved,
e-mail me at dressagekids@straightforwarddressage.com.
