07 Dec NorCal Clinic with Mandy Porter

Posted at 18:00h in Client News, Farm News by
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Pictured Chupito BF getting some love from Noelle while Brittany watches the other riders on course

Two of my students and myself were fortunate enough to be chosen by lottery draw to ride in the NorCal clinic with Mandy Porter held at Leone Equestrians November 29th-December 2nd. Another student Noelle  Stuart was invited to assist as ring crew all weekend and had a wonderful and educational experience from the ground. I was originally wait listed and found out just a few days before from clinic organizer and trainer friend Reagan Hayes that I had a chance to ride so I rushed to find a horse! Fortunately I am surrounded by wonderful and supportive trainers, clients and friends and the DeVere’s graciously loaned me their beautiful gelding Chupito BF while my assistant Lauren and working student Becca hustled to take care of the ranch while I was away for the days of the clinic both riding and helping ring crew. We hauled in both days with Chupito and Christine DeVere came to help and video my session late on Thursday afternoon. Lupes, as he’s called in the barn, was wonderful if not slightly enthusiastic day one and then returned for day two like a complete pro! The girls who had a chance to ride over the weekend benefitted from the same flat and gymnastic work and tough but manageable coursework. Madalin Greco and Lea Vickery both learned tons and had a lot of fun on their fabulous mares! Mandy set challenging gymnastics day one to prepare the horses’ ride-ability for day two. Mandy was very positive and kind while still placing emphasis on correct flat work and grit when the coursework got difficult. She set optional bending lines and combinations that made the riders move up to the distances and ride in a forward positive manner. The clinic was fun, uplifting and most of all left my crew looking forward to working on the exercises we practiced with Mandy!! I want to thank NorCal for providing this amazing opportunity and Mandy Porter for sharing her knowledge in such a kind and supportive fashion.