Wow! She said it all and I couldn't agree with her more. I hope she does start giving lectures and showing people how things are supposed to be done. Hopefully, because she is well known she will be listened too.
Sylvia Loch already does lectures & demos in the UK & I've had the pleasure of seeing her in action a couple of times.
What can I say? Her horses trust her enough to have the odd off moment, when they decide that they don't really want to play, thanks. At those moments, she just laughs, loosens off the rein & asks again; when they return to perfect beautifully balanced behaviour.
I think that is the mark of someone who has put in the effort to get a horse that is working WITH them, because it wants to, not because it's had every element of natural equine behaviour suppressed by whips, bits, draw reins & spurs. We can only hope it spreads, but I fear the "professionals" may keep to the ways that win them prizes.
jme and grey horse, I knew you'd both enjoy this one.
Dougie, I also had a feeling you were probably "in the know" about Sylvia's work - thanks for the anecdote, which I love. I think you're right - she has the mark of someone who partners with her horses, allowing them to have personality and self-expression during the work.
Are you familiar with her Classical Riding Club? I was on the hunt for more info earlier today but can't decide if membership from the US would offer many benefits.
Yeah, the Classical Riding Club works on a networking basis, with an overall objective of spreading the principles of classical riding.
There are loads of great articles available, with members getting access to an ever-growing list of approved trainers & judges, as well as Sylva's own insightful blog.
Given the networking alone, I'd say membership from the US is worthwhile. Club website is on http://www.classicalriding.co.uk
Thanks so much for taking the time to comment - I love reading them and respond as often as I can. I also love comments that add to the original post, so feel free to share your own experiences, insights, and thoughts.
agree!!! really great article! that's one to file away for future reading :-) thanks!
ReplyDeleteWow! She said it all and I couldn't agree with her more. I hope she does start giving lectures and showing people how things are supposed to be done. Hopefully, because she is well known she will be listened too.
ReplyDeleteSylvia Loch already does lectures & demos in the UK & I've had the pleasure of seeing her in action a couple of times.
ReplyDeleteWhat can I say? Her horses trust her enough to have the odd off moment, when they decide that they don't really want to play, thanks. At those moments, she just laughs, loosens off the rein & asks again; when they return to perfect beautifully balanced behaviour.
I think that is the mark of someone who has put in the effort to get a horse that is working WITH them, because it wants to, not because it's had every element of natural equine behaviour suppressed by whips, bits, draw reins & spurs. We can only hope it spreads, but I fear the "professionals" may keep to the ways that win them prizes.
jme and grey horse, I knew you'd both enjoy this one.
ReplyDeleteDougie, I also had a feeling you were probably "in the know" about Sylvia's work - thanks for the anecdote, which I love. I think you're right - she has the mark of someone who partners with her horses, allowing them to have personality and self-expression during the work.
Are you familiar with her Classical Riding Club? I was on the hunt for more info earlier today but can't decide if membership from the US would offer many benefits.
Hi Billie
ReplyDeleteYeah, the Classical Riding Club works on a networking basis, with an overall objective of spreading the principles of classical riding.
There are loads of great articles available, with members getting access to an ever-growing list of approved trainers & judges, as well as Sylva's own insightful blog.
Given the networking alone, I'd say membership from the US is worthwhile. Club website is on
http://www.classicalriding.co.uk
Ooh, just had a flick through the Classical Riding Club diary of dates & Sylvia is doing a clinic in Canada (Calgary) at the end of September.
ReplyDeleteGiven that, I'd guess you'll get the chance to see her in the states at some point :)
Thanks, Dougie - I will look further into the Classical Riding Club. I hope Sylvia Loch makes her way to the US very soon.
ReplyDelete