The One where Sudi Goes to a Clinic

So on the spur of the moment, I got an invite to a dressage clinic held at One Tempi Farm – basically around the corner. Susan Selvey runs that farm, and I’ve always enjoyed taking lessons from time to time with her. I usually get worked really hard, but I feel like so much progress is made during them!

This trip was Sudi’s first trailering experience by himself! I have to say, I was pretty afraid he’d be a handful and worried, but he was completely laid back!! He stood tied to the trailer with his nose buried in alfalfa like he’d done it a million times before. ????? (Although bewildered, secretly I was really pleased!!) Apparently I was the only one concerned about nerves.

Due to some rain (yet again!) the clinic was about 45 minutes behind schedule, so I had plenty of warm up time. Hokan Thorne was older than I’d pictured, but I really liked his teaching style. He was very upfront with me on our current issues: he’s still young and untrained, and we desperately need to help him with his developing underneck. During our lesson he really helped me work with Sudi by teaching me how to hold him together when he starts to become so wiggly. Also, we worked on helping him keep the contact when he starts falling apart and getting distracted. Sudi, although acting his age at first, finally got into the groove of things. He started reaching for my hands (for more than a stride! Yippee!) and he also started bending through the rib cage! Going forward was still an issue, but he’s getting much more responsive.

I was given LOTS of homework – mainly side rein work, and getting Sudi to move immediately off my leg without sluggishness.

Overall though – I felt the clinic very worthwhile and hopefully we’ll make enough progress so I feel safe in going back to him! Hehe.

Next on the plate is the Intro to Eventing Clinic in Ocala. I have the unique opportunity to catch a ride on Dr Norman’s pony “Cat,” who she’s very graciously offered to let me ride. Needless to say, I’m very excited. Sudi is going down for the experience and also to take a dressage lesson with Jon Holling Sunday morning. Hopefully all will go well, and we won’t get any rain!! Wish us luck… :-D