taking over the world, one rider at a time.
May 7, 2009
by Lauri.
ah, sweet success! yes, it’s true: I have successfully converted another equestrian to dressage. I should perhaps make a disclaimer: I am not a fanatic who thinks dressage is the only true discipline (even though it is) and shuns all other sports. however, I DO think it’s largely under-rated (especially thanks to a Sports Illustrated poll, in which it was voted the most boring Olympic sport), and I strive to demonstrate that it’s really a challenging and rewarding discipline, just like the more action-intensive and fun-to-watch equestrian sports.
THAT SAID. Jared Sheldon has been riding for us for some years now. his background is Western, and when we acquired our Quarter Horse mare Katie (Had Me At Hello), he took it upon himself not only to learn the discipline of Reining, he trained Katie in it, as well. the pair has had some success on the local circuit in both Reining and Working Cow Horse classes. since we have no Western trainer at Legacy, the closest thing Jared could get to Reining lessons were dressage lessons (in a Western saddle). and now, he’s decided to make the full transition. this just isn’t the right place for a Western horse to thrive, and Jared has decided it’s in her best interest to let her go. so, Katie has been listed for sale, and Jared had his first official dressage lesson (in an English saddle!). much to the envy of everyone else, he’s learning on our beloved Metta (Medieval Magic), and he and Luke will be sharing Metta-competition duties in the future.
