January 20-21, 2014

Steffen Peters and Scott Hassler presented concise, straightforward insights for enhancing the performance of each horse at its level of development and training.  Peters alternated between training from the ground and actually riding the horses.  It is intriguing how our habits may be counter-productive or serve no purpose.  At one point, Peters asked a rider the purpose for her whip.  Since she did not know, he told her to get rid of it.  Another observation by Peters, “when we use a spur, there must be a reaction.  Make a difference.”  

Hassler offered his insights from the ground.  Of particular interest was his reflecting on the training a horse with home he had worked over the years, Faberge, ridden and trained by Jessica Jo Tate.  

In addition, Jochen Schleese presented a most informative overview of horse anatomy in relation to proper saddle fit.  He emphasized the necessity of avoiding pressure on nerves that in turn negatively affect horse movement through their attempts at pain avoidance.    

The conference was sold out to an extremely receptive and captivated audience of dressage riders and supporters.

Many thanks to Mary Anne McPhail for welcoming all to her High Meadow Farm in Loxahatchee, Florida.

Please enjoy our photo documentation of the event.