WHEW HEW! I get to do a Richard Spooner clinic!

[Chanda]

Hi guys, long time no talk. I just got back from Italy and have a week and a half to get Chase ready for this clinic. It is at my barn so I couldn't pass it up even though Chase isn't ready. If it gets to be to be too much for him I will just stop and watch.

Has anyone done a clinic with him? What should I expect? Is there any advice you can give me for his likes and dislikes? This is my first clinic ever so I want to make it good.

I am obviously going to dress super nice and neat and have my horse groomed to perfection and carry all needed accesories. Anything else?

The clinic still has some openings if anyone is interested. It is on the 4th and 5th of December in Santa Ynez. Email me and I can hook you up with organizers.

[Chanda]

Hi guys, long time no talk. I just got back from Italy and have a week and a half to get Chase ready for this clinic. It is at my barn so I couldn't pass it up even though Chase isn't ready. If it gets to be to be too much for him I will just stop and watch.

Has anyone done a clinic with him? What should I expect? Is there any advice you can give me for his likes and dislikes? This is my first clinic ever so I want to make it good.

I am obviously going to dress super nice and neat and have my horse groomed to perfection and carry all needed accesories. Anything else?

The clinic still has some openings if anyone is interested. It is on the 4th and 5th of December in Santa Ynez. Email me and I can hook you up with organizers.

[findeight]

Welcome back http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

We expect a full report.

Just a hint, don't be too insecure about it. Groom well, dress well, listen and don't speak unless spoken to and you will have a GREAT time...remember, big name or not, he is working for YOU so don't be scared.

[Horsaholic]

I have never cliniced with him or even met him but I do see him around the shows and he is very friendly. I think you have the right idea in coming neatly dressed, clean horse and well equipped.. It should be fun! Yes, please do report back if you will!http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Nikki^]

You must get pictures too!

[khobstetter]

Just go and have a great time. He is FUN, enthuastic, efficient...AND ENDLESSLY PATIENT!!!

You need to turn out well, clean and tidy...BUT don't feel like you have to obsess about it...

He does a GREAT clinic, has a great personality in that venue and will not only REALLY help your riding..he will assure you a good time AND YOUR MONEYS WORTH!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Chef Jade]

Richard is super-nice. He keeps everything really up-beat and positive. So DON'T be nervous! You guys will be great. Have fun!

[Saddith]

Chanda, where is your barn? I might come audit, if I can get that weekend off work. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

[Chanda]

Thanks guys!

The only thing I am nervous about is pushing my horse too far. He is really just cantering single fences right now and I don't want to end up doing too much. But (and this is a big BUT) I am spending $400 and I want to get my moneys worth. I don't want to feel like I am wasting all that money just because my horse is unable to do the things he has planned. The clinic is just a great thing at a really bad time for me. At the same time, when a guy like that comes to your barn you can't say no.

Saddith, it is right in the middle of Santa Ynez. Email me and I can give you the girls number who it setting it up.

[Gunnar]

Chanda, Richard Spooner is a great clinician. I have a friend who was lucky enough to ride with him. I watched her ride in one of his clinics and was quite impressed with his ability to express himself and teach you his way of riding. He has many interesting theories some that make very good sense. Ask questions as his explations are very informative. He is an extraordianry rider and I think you will have a blast.

Explain your horses experience etc. and he will work with your limitations etc. he is very accomadating and you will get your moneys worth. I am so, so jealous.

PS. Do not drool over him as he is too cute for words and very sweet to boot.

[jennweeks]

yah richard rides at the same place as me and i see him every day and he is as nice as can be. he is really respectful and nice, but you have to be patient and listen to him

-jenn weeks

[Chanda]

Thanks for the reminder not to drool. My hubby will be there videoing and I don't want him to catch any evidence of me drooling over another. Hehe!

[Gunnar]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Chanda:
Thanks for the reminder not to drool. My hubby will be there videoing and I don't want him to catch any evidence of me drooling over another. Hehe! <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Mr Gunnar allows my droolong over Richard ( and Duncan Mcfarland ) Just no swooning.

[sbock]

His clinics are great. He did a clinic at our barn last year. He doesn't like stiff "eq" riding. He really emphasizes moving your arms and upper body to bend your horse and get your horse listening to you. I joked that if I did with my hands what he does with his, I'd get major grief away from barn mates who know what's up. He doesn't reward or encourage pretty riding as a goal but works towards making you an effective rider and your horse an active listener. Pretty is as pretty does with him. You'll have a blast. Give us a report.

[Chanda]

Wow, that sounds awesome. That is exactly the kind of riding I believe in too. I am really getting excited now. This is my first real clinic and it sounds like I picked a good one.

[findeight]

Don't worry about Chase. He can take a clinic.

Most of them are heavy on the flatwork and most clinicians will know exactly where you are before you ever see so much as a crossrail.

Mention you are not jumping much if you wish but please DO NOT go into elaborate detail. Clinicians hate that.

I think you will be surprised at how much he'll get you doing and how confident you'll feel by the end

[hifi]

I am sure he is great. However, I would learn nothing for Richard because I would be too busy drooling and fantasizing http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_cool.gif

[Chanda]

Thanks Findeight, that's really good advice. I would hate to accidentally do anything rude. You are right, I am sure after the flatwork that he will be able to tell for himself how fit (or unfit) Chase is all by himself.

I am working Chases little butt off trying to get him in better shape by next weekend.

[Chanda]

Hey, I had another question for those of you know Richard. Does he ever want to ride your horse during the clinic like GM sometimes does?

[Pocket Pony]

I've seen him get on a rider's horse...and get dumped, too! He's a rider, just like the rest of us. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif (Granted, he's obviously more successful and has TONS more experience!)

[Chanda]

I was just asking because I usually don't let ANYONE get on my horse. It upsets him a lot and I didn't know what I should do if Richard wants to get on him. I would hate to stress out my horse but I would also feel like an ass having to tell Richard no. I would feel even worse if my horse seriously hurt anyone which is always a possibility.

Since I am never selling Chase I don't have to worry if anyone ever gets on him besides me.

[BLBGP]

I think Richard would be fine on Chase. He's a very soft rider who meshes well with all types of horses. It'd probably be good for you to watch your horse go and see how he is with a rider like Richard. And he would be able to tell if he is upsetting your horse and why and work with the problem correctly.

[Jumpin'Fool]

Chanda, I am not trying to flame you, I am really, really, not, but I just don't get it. You have the opportunity to have your difficult horse schooled by a master and you're worried it's going to stress him out? JUMP at the chance!!! OFFER him to Richard to ride! You have been struggling with Chase for years. Take advantage of a great chance!

If other riders stress him out it's most likely because you have creatd that situation. I admittedly spoil my horses rotten. When my trainer gets on them, they of course are upset because someone is politely but firmly saying, 'This is your job and you will please do it.' Instead of, 'Oh he is so sensitive, that little bit is good enough.'

As far as Chase injuring Richard, well that's a chance every rider takes with every horse. I am sure Richard has ridden worse rogues than Chase and better than you, me or 99% of the riding world.

[Pocket Pony]

Well Chanda, I know you are excited about the opportunity, but I say don't go. You are obviously a very good mom for Chase and very concerned about his welfare. But if you and your trainer have him in such a strict program, and you can't bend him in a certain way, or must ride him in another way, then I'd think that you are just wasting your time and money, and the clinician's. I really am not meaning to be rude, but what happens when Richard says "bend him more to the left". Are you going to stop the clinic (with what, 6 or 7 other people?) and explain to him that while you appreciate the input, you are not going to do what he suggests because you might break your horse? I've only seen one of his clinics, and it was a while ago, but it was very intense. Not necessarily in a bad way, but if you weren't prepared then it was very difficult. Lots of gymnastics in bending lines, lots of flat work focusing on lateral flexibility, and just lots of work in general.

Why don't you put it off another year until Chase is stronger? That way you could get the most for your money. It sounds to me like you are going into this with the expectation of "dropping out", anyways. <BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR> This is just a clinic, it is supposed to be a fun time to meet someone new and learn a new point of view or a new way of thinking. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE> You can do that by auditing and you won't even have to ride. Then you could practice some of what you learned at home, with your trainer. And decide if it is something you want to shoot for next year.

[Chanda]

Pocket Pony, you are probably right, I should not do the clinic. But, at the same time I have had to miss so much woth this horse. I have only done 2 dressage shows and 1 Jumper show with him in all the time i have had him. I just wanted to do something fun and maybe open up my mind for a change.

Besides, even if I can only do the flat and a little jumping Richard will still get his 400 bucks. What does he care if I just stay to the side and watch?

If Richard asks me to do something that I don't think is good for my horse I will just not do it. If he asks why I will tell him it is because of an old injury. I am sure he will understand.

[b328]

Out of curiosity, I have never heard of a horse being so sensitive to bending from one session. What kind of accident did your horse have to make him so fragile? I haven't really seen any updates since years ago when he bowed a tendon, so am wondering if there was a more severe accident since then.

[Chanda]

He hurt his shoulder in the trailer and then again at a dressage clinic. My trainer and chiro and vet all think it is connected to his original bow.

To make matters more complicated horses are always born crooked. They are in their mothers bent more to one side. This makes the muscles shorter on one side and longer on the other. Our goals as riders are to lengthen the short muscles and strengthen the long muscles.

Chase needs to be riden on the right rein and bent slightly to the right before being bent correctly to the left. There is sort of a list of things that must be done in a certain order before his is able to CORRECTLY bend to the left. If you don't do these things he will be bent incorrectly and possibley injure his shoulder.

[Chef Jade]

Chanda, I know you are riding Chase a certain way to protect his weak areas. But you also have to think of the long-term ill-effects of not riding him equally on both sides, and allowing him to favor certain legs.

Sometimes having a great pro get on and help "un-stick" parts of your horse can really create a big breakthrough.

Also, you may be surprised at your own breakthroughs you have had with Chase by letting someone else ride him. Wouldn't it be rewarding to see that you have made him trusting of other people, too?

Obviously its your horse and your decision to make, but just wanted to give you some food for thought.

Good luck, have fun, and give us a report! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[wanderlust]

Chanda, I'm with pocket pony on this one. You really should consider auditing. Clinics tend to be engineered to teach both rider and horse, not just the rider. If you don't feel comfortable asking Chase to do something outside your/his normal routine, you shouldn't be doing a clinic.

And just for the record, Richard Spooner can sit on my cranky, quirky horse any day of the week.

[RumoursFollow]

I have to say that I think that if you are so closed to the thought of any new idea or any new introduction for Chase that regardless of how much money you are willing to drop on this, this clinic is a waste of you and Mr. Spooner's time.

Seriously, if your horse is so mentally unstable that you cannot fathom the thought of someone who rides 1000 times better than you ever will riding your horse, then you should just stay at home and train him yourself. Its apparent to me that you dont think you really need his help anyway. If you did, you'd allow him to do what he thinks is best for your horse.

Just my opinion.

[SaddleFitterVA]

5 years ago, I probably would have been in the "oh, nobody rides my horses but me" camp, but now, I've realized that is ridiculous....mostly because I have too many horses, so it is a practical matter, but also, I realize that often, another rider, a skilled rider can find out what I'm feeling or doing wrong, and help me correct it after feeling the horse.

Another thing is that I don't think that one ride is going to "ruin" my horse. If I see something that I think will be damaging, I can tell them to get off my horse, to stop. Yes, it would be uncomfortable, but that would be very rare. Most riders who I'd clinic with would not be so insensitive to the horse and if the horse wasn't fit enough for even work, I'd take another.

I tend to think that "nobody rides my horse but me" is an amateur prima donna attitude that really does no favors to the horse, but as it is the owner's horse, nobody can force them into letting another on their horse.

Interestingly, my fabulous and hot mare, I've only had 3 clinicians/instructors want to get on her to have a "feel". And, it was only once each and every one of them used that to give me better feedback.

Mel

[magic mushroom]

just curious - was it de kunffy that you took the dressage clinic with? i am just asking because i know he clinics up there on a regular basis.

[dmj]

I agree that this would be a waste of both your and Mr. Spooner's time. If you cannot go into this clinic with an open mind, don't go. I have audited and participated in enough clinics to know that this would be an awkward situation, to say the least.

My horse was also abused when he came to me. Sometimes you just have to let go a bit. Your horse may surprise you with what he is capable of, both mentally and physically. I know mine did.

[God]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Chanda:
Pocket Pony, you are probably right, I should not do the clinic. But, at the same time I have had to miss so much woth this horse. I have only done 2 dressage shows and 1 Jumper show with him in all the time i have had him. I just wanted to do something fun and maybe open up my mind for a change. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

That paragraph pretty much contradicts everything you've said previously. Either your horse's "fragility" comes first or your want to do something fun does. If you are as worried as you purport that Richard might ruin your horse ( http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif ), you would not be so much as entertaining the idea of riding.

So, I would either accept that Richard Spooner's riding is far better for my horse than mine and get over myself or spend my $400 on a new pair of Manolos rather than waste his and my time as well as make an ass of myself.

[WildBlue]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Chanda:
...Richard will still get his 400 bucks. What does he care if I just stay to the side and watch?
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

I have to beg to differ. In a mounted group session, a rider who insists on following his or her own programme is disruptive, creates more work for the instructor, and reduces the quality of the other students' lesson. I'm sure you wouldn't mean to be so rude, but it's bound to happen if you can't or won't attempt to follow Mr Spooner's instructions.

If you are that concerned for your horse, auditing is a much better option for everyone.

[meaty ogre]

I think enough stones have been thrown here.

Chanda, look how excited you were when you made that initial post. Maybe your concerns about Chase and about Richard riding him are just popping up from a little anxiety/fear about the clinic. You don't have to make excuses just in case something goes wrong. Just push all that aside and focus on how exciting it will be to have a fresh set of eyes assessing your progress and making suggestions for more!

And heck, if it goes over like a pregnant pole-vaulter, bust a bottle out of the vineyard reserves, pour yourself a glass and get on here and post an "It didn't go too well" post.

Worst case scenario, you have a sucky ride and you learn from it. I say go boldly, and with your initial excitement!

[Coreene]

Of course, keep in mind that other people riding in the clinic also paid $400 to be there are are not there to have their time wasted.

[DMK]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Chanda:
Besides, even if I can only do the flat and a little jumping Richard will still get his 400 bucks. What does he care if I just stay to the side and watch? <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Because if he is a good clinician, he will try to work with everyone sho shelled out $400, and he will try to keep any one group from being too disparate in exercises/skill levels. The upshot is that you could cost other participants their $400 worth of learning.

Chanda, it's your horse, and you do with him as it pleases you, and there is no need to do any more or less...

But in reading your posts about his fragility, his lack of trust, his lack of manners, his crookedness from being conceived... It sort of sounds like there's always a reason why he can't do more, be better mannered, be trusted or trusting and that this reason is totally exclusive to Chase. That may be, but quite frankly most of us ride horses that have holes, need support, aren't the soundest thing on the planet, and/or have foibles that drive us bat shit crazy. It's just most of us buck up and deal with it. And push our horses accordingly.

Hell, I wouldn't know how to jump a course if I wasn't dealing with a right drift that comes from an assortment of various issues the very least of which was an old bow. Most of the time we are pushing our horses the same time we are protecting them. Helping them strengthen the weak areas while we strengthen the rest of the horse to help carry the eternally weak areas. But there is no escaping the adage that you have to break a few eggs to make omelets.

[Portia]

(Sorry, tried to edit my post and ended up deleting it).

It seems to me that what the others have said is both well-intentioned and correct. The basic point of any clinic is to learn and push yourself and your horse to try new things. You have to be ready and prepared to do that to a reasonable degree or it will be a frustrating experience for you, your horse, the other riders, and the clinician.

A prerequisite for any clinic that involves riding in groups is that you and your horse are ready and able to ride at the level set for the group and to do the exercises that might be called for. There's always some leeway, but too much disparity only leads to someone either getting left out of most things or taking an unfair amount of the clinician's and the group's time.

By all means, if you think you and Chase are ready for it, prepared to learn, and prepared to do the exercises that will be asked of you, then do the clinic. Enjoy it and learn from it. But if you honestly think Chase's issues are likely to make it so you can't participate effectively, then it would be better to audit. You can have fun auditing, learn a great deal, and have a lot to take back to work on with your trainer and your horse.

[Linda Allen]

As a clinician familiar with the challenges of dealing with a large number of usually totally unfamiliar riders and horses in a concentrated period of time, I'll weigh in here a bit.

Clinics are not private lessons, nor are they on going help with a trainer/instructor who learns every foible of every rider or horse. They can't be.

The challenge for the clinician is to provide a new perspective, offer some new experiences and challenges, all while not leaving anyone worse off that they were before.

It is impossible to set every exercise in a way that suits every horse on that particular day. We try to set what will give the maximum benefit to the largest number of participants.

My feeling from scanning these posts is that it might be best to audit the clinic this time. There is so much to be gained from actively listening and learning!

It is distracting to the whole group when a rider (even rightly) asks to have exceptions made for their horse. It is also hard for the rider of that horse to learn much while debating if they should/want to be there at all.

If you go ahead with riding, I'd have a talk with Richard before you get on, tell him (briefly!) why you might feel uncomfortable with some things that might be asked, and request that you be permitted to leave the lesson if you feel it is in the best interest of your horse. Then do so quietly and unobtrusively and audit the rest of the session. Do not discuss it during the session and take up other people's time. That's not fair to Richard or the other riders.

This happens occasionally in clinic situations, horses get tired or have something bothering them that they don't warm out of -- make your decision and handle it in a considerate manner and everyone will be happy.

[Merry]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by DMK:
...quite frankly most of us ride horses that have holes, need support, aren't the soundest thing on the planet, and/or have foibles that drive us bat shit crazy. It's just most of us buck up and deal with it. And push our horses accordingly.
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>
Wait! You just described the horse I currently compete and the two previous ones. Is there a club I can join? Where do I sign up?

Chanda, you remind me of the very first time I rode in a GM clinic many, many (emphasis on "many") years ago. I took my sister's grand old horse for the clinic, because I was dying to be critiqued by George Morris. Yet I was worried about the fact that I wasn't on the most athletic, stylish horse. That he wasn't 100% sound. That he was sticky on his left to right lead change unless you set him up just so for the change. That he was blind in one eye. And that he would let out a huge, rodeo-style buck if he was compressed between the rider's hand and leg. But guess what? THAT WAS THE HORSE GEORGE CHOSE TO RIDE for his demonstrations! I wanted to cringe!

But you know what? The transformation in about 3-5 minutes of George Morris riding that horse was amazing... and inspiring. My sister and I will never forget it. Right away, GM could sense and feel so many things about that horse without me even telling him blahblahblah about the horse's idiosyncracies. My sister and I came away far better horsewomen because we could see what could be attained on a horse that we thought had a bundle of "issues" and quirks.

So I humbly suggest that you either, uh, fish or cut bait: You either ride with gusto and give everything the college try, including allowing Richard to ride Chase if he requests, and keep an open to mind to Richard's insights. Or leave your horse at home and audit. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Duffy]

Kip Rosenthal used to come to my college for clinics. I was just getting over pneumonia at the time and still wanted to participate. I let her know ahead of time that I might need to rest at times and if that was a problem, then I would sit it out completely. She was very gracious - said she wanted me to ride anyway, and I literally went to the center of the ring periodically during the heavy-duty flatwork sessions as needed. I know it's not the same thing. But, I wanted to give you an example of how it might be accomplished if you really and truly want to give it a go. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[SBT]

There is a Bible scripture that reads, "If you wait for perfect conditions, you'll never get anything done." Which is fine if living in your own protective bubble is satisfying to you. But if you want to go farther, learn more, and improve your riding and your horse, you must be willing and able to step out of your comfort zone a little bit.

Along the lines of Merry's GM experience: I got the fantastic chance to lesson with George a few years ago. I rode one of his horses, as I couldn't get someone to trailer mine. At home, I was jumping VERY small fences and working on my own, VERY conservatively; my nature is to never come close to "overdoing" anything. Anyway, I got into this lesson and the jumps were going up, up, up...I hadn't jumped that high in years, nor had I done any lines as complicated as what he was giving me. I had a momentary panic; all I could think was, "OMG, he doesn't know I might not be able do this!" My first time through the "higher" line reflected my fear...I kept choking down, adding, breaking to a trot, chipping in. George got after me to "GALLOP!" So I did the only thing I could do: I trusted him, I trusted the horse I was on, and I trusted myself. As soon as that happened, I found myself doing things I never thought I could! And I realized that if someone like George Morris thinks I can do something, I CAN do it; if he didn't think I could, he wouldn't ask.

IMO, the whole point of progressive training, and especially clinics/lessons with top trainers, is getting past those things you "can't" do. Just because you can't make yourself or your horse do something at home, either because of a missing skill or a preconceived notion ("every time we try x, y happens") doesn't mean someone else can't find a way, a loophole you and your regular trainer haven't considered.

I think if you want to do this clinic, you need to clear all of Chase's "exceptions" from your mind, go as you are, and see what Richard can help you with. If you are unable/unwilling to do this, it would be better to audit. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif

[Chanda]

Thanks guys.
Duffy, that was my plan. I had already informed the person setting up the clinic that my horse is pretty out of shape but I wanted to do the clinic anyway. I am totally open to learning new things but I didn't want to overface my horse so I entered him in the smallest fence height. If my horse gets tired I will stop and leave the clinic and watch the rest of it. No big deal.

I am totaly open to learning new things I just don't want anyone to ride my horse. That's all. It just did not occur to me until the other morning at 4am. I asked my trainer and she said it would not be a good idea for anyone else to ride him and I ageed.

I would much rather have him explain things to me so I can do it myself since I am the only one that rides him anyway.

I am not going to offend anyone or ruin anyone elses clinic. I just want to ride my own horse. It is no big deal.

Besides, I just talked to a woman doing the class after mine with bigger fences and she hasn't ridden her horses for 2 years, nor has she ridden for the last 2 years. I think she is going to be a bigger risk of ruining peoples clinic than I am.

[ABBA]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Linda Allen:

My feeling from scanning these posts is that it might be best to audit the clinic this time. There is so much to be gained from actively listening and learning!
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>


http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif I agree here. Chanda, as you said early - you want this to be more of a learning experience for you than your horse. If this still holds true - I'd audit.

[Chanda]

I signed up for this clinic a really long time ago and I can't get my money back. I had not even thought about anyone else wanting to ride my horse because if I had thought of it then I wouldn't have signed up for it. My mistake

When I signed up I didn't know that my horse would have hurt his shoulder. I didn't know that I would be gone for 2 weeks right before the clinic. It ended up being really bad timeing but I am going to make the best out of it. Wouldn't you?

I am obviously again not explaining myself here and it will do no good to go on trying to explain further because no one seems to be understanding what I am saying anyway.

I am going to go to the clinic and have a good time. I will do what I can with my horse and not any more than that. I am sure that everything is going to be fine. I will ride my horse and keep him sound and have a good time doing some new stuff.

I just don't understand how you guys can all get so upset over something so simple. It is really no big deal. I am sure that Richard wouldn't even want to get on my horse so there probably won't be any issue anyways.

Now please let this be. I have learned my lesson yet again not to post my own personal fears on a public BB so I don't get blasted to pieces by people who I don't even know.

[Coreene]

Sometimes consideration for other clinic attendees is more important than getting your money's worth.

Really, Chanda, I would think that someone like Linda Allen, a top-notch clinician, would know it better than you.

[Palisades]

I just wanted to point out that while it might be alright to explain to a clinician that you don't want them to get on your horse, it's going to be a lot more difficult to tell them that you don't want to do x, y, or z with him yourself, which is what this sounds like. You said that you were worried Richard would bend him to much to one side, and things like that- if he is giving you directions from the ground, it is likely that he will ask you to do some of the things that he would want to try if he was riding the horse himself.

If you aren't comfortable with things he might ask your horse to do (either directly, when riding him, or from the ground, when you are), I'm not sure how much you'll get out of the clinic. I think when going into something like this, you have to choose a clinician you really trust, and then do whatever they ask you to do with some faith in their judgement.

None of this is meant as a criticism, but more as a warning: just because he isn't on your horse doesn't mean you'll be able to control all the details the way you usually do with your own trainer. If I misread you and you ARE willing to try what he suggests yourself, then I'm sure you'll have a great time and learn a lot. If, on the other hand, every one of his requests will have to conform to your current, very specific program for your horse, I'm not sure what "new ideas" you'll really be able to pick up.

[Jasmine]

You asked for opinions, and got them. It's not the other poster's fault you didn't like what they had to say.

Take it all with a grain of salt, since none of us know your situation. Then do what you wanted to anyway.

[Chanda]

You know what, I changed my mind, I agree with you guys.

There is a certain percent chance that if Richard wanted to ride my horse that I would learn all sorts of new stuff and it would be great.

There is also a certain percent chance that Chase could tweek his shoulder and get hurt.

My idea of what the percentage of both chances are is different than what all of you think they are.

Who is right? I don't know.

Anyway, what's done is done and I will make the best of it.

[BLBGP]

When is the clinic? If you decide to do it, just relax and have fun. It's always a plus to hear something from another professional's opinion. Clinics can be incredibly eye opening.

[SaddleFitterVA]

Chanda,

I doubt that the clinician would even try to get on every horse and just let the organizer know. I doubt that a clinician would even ask if they know you are going to say no.

Have fun. I love clinics and I've only had one actual "clinician" get on my horse, that was a dressage rider. The rest of the clinics were devoted to teaching me.

I've had 2 jumper trainers ride my horse, one was interested in trying her because he would have liked to have sold her (and I did take lessons from him), the other was at the end of a lesson to see how she felt after watching us go.

So long as you can be unobtrusive in stepping out if necessary, then no biggie.

I personally find that I don't "audit" as well when I'm riding as I do if I just go audit. I'm too busy absorbing what was said to me to really absorb what is being said to the other groups. Plus, horse care takes up a big chunk of time.

Mel

[Pocket Pony]

When I bought Paddy, in the back of my mind, I thought about the GM clinic that is at Patty Ball's up here every year. When I tried him, he seemed ready to go. When I got him home, I realized we needed to get our "language" set before I followed through with such grand plans. Both of us are capable enough to go, I think, but we're no where near prepared. I think that in order to participate in a clinic, the horse and rider must be uber-prepared. Prepared to the point of practicing and working on things that are possibly more advanced than you'd do in the clinic. I've audited a GM clinic before, so I know what to expect. And I know that I have to be prepared to do my best. And I know I'm not there with Paddy yet. So I've set it as a goal for next year. Before he retires or kicks it, I want to do a GM clinic!!!

[Madison]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Chanda:
There is a certain percent chance that if Richard wanted to ride my horse that I would learn all sorts of new stuff and it would be great.

There is also a certain percent chance that Chase could tweek his shoulder and get hurt.
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

IMO there is a 100% chance that you would learn something new if someone as talented as Richard got on your horse. And I think that would apply to most anyone. In fact it is why we all either secretly hope or outwardly beg for talented clinicians to ride our horses at a clinic http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif

But, if you truly believe that the chance of Richard Spooner getting on Chase puts his shoulder that much at risk, then I have to wonder why you would put him through a clinic at all, even with just you riding. In my experience, clinics are very demanding even on a fit horse, and in that case I would probably choose to audit rather than risk it.

Good luck and have fun whatever you decide to do. I agree with whoever said it would be easy to let the organizer know you prefer not to have anyone else ride him, if Richard is considering riding during the sessions. I think people here have tried to give honest, frank advice based on the information you provided, which is of course all anyone has to go on.

[AAJumper]

I know your situation is special, Chanda, but in my situation, I would love it if Richard Spooner got on my horse to see what he thought of him and what his thought were about my horse from being in the saddle. But I would guess that he would be too busy working with the group as a whole to get on anyone's horse unless it was absolutely necessary. I've ridden in a few clinics (two with Linda and she is a great clinician! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif ) and the only time anyone got on a horse was when Will Simpson came to our barn to give a very informal clinic, and my horse was being a butthead. Will got on him and kicked his ass and it was really cool to watch!

I also agree with Linda that if a horse/rider combo are not properly prepared, they can really bring down the group. I used to ride with someone who always had to do things 3 times as many times as everyone else to get it right, and that got really annoying. Because that person would be getting a lot of instruction while the rest of us (usually just me actually) was just sitting there. It would just take away from everyone else's experience. I know that wasn't the point of your question, etc., but I felt the need to mention that.

[Chanda]

You are totally right. I think I just explained Chases condition poorly.

What I was trying to say is that If I ride Chase a certain way I continue to strengthen his shoulder and balance his body so he gets straighter and straighter and stronger and stronger. I have worked on this for the last two years and I am very proud of what we have accomplished because it was really hard work.

When I left for two weeks I had someone who I trust longe him lightly for me everyday. When I came back I found that he was a little sore in his bad shoulder and not moving as well as he was when I left. I totally expected this.

I guard that shoulder very carefully when I ride him, I protect him from ANY possible pain because I care for him that much. I know when it is hurting and I know when it is strong.

I have been riding him and jumping him for the last two weeks to prepare him for this clinic and he is doing really well. I think we are decently prepared because his shoulder feels very strong right now.

I just want to guard him against any strain to that shoulder. I am only able to protect him if I am the one riding him because I can FEEL it.

I feel like I can do most of what the clinic will ask of us and I think that as long as I can make sure my horse is feeling OK that we will both have a good time. Having fun is my whole reason for doing this. I just want to get out there and do some great flat work and jump over a few small jumps. I am sure that I will learn all sorts of cool stuff.

You will have to forgive me if I try with all my might to protect my horse. He has been through so much already.

If there is even a 5 percent chance that Chase will hurt his shoulder than I would rather not have someone else get on because I know 100% that I will not allow his shoulder to get hurt.

[Chanda]

AA, I know for a fact that I am already much more prepared than some of the people who are doing the clinic. That is why I am doing a level down from what I think my horse can do. Like I said there is one woman who has not even ridden her horses for the last 2 years. I have got to be more prepared than her!

[Pocket Pony]

Well good luck to you - I hope you can report back that you had a wonderful time and learned a lot. I'm sure we'd all like to hear about the format and information shared.

[AAJumper]

Chanda, I wasn't commenting on whether or not you are prepared more or less than other people, because I have no idea what level you are riding at or where you are in your training. It was just a general comment about what happens when someone is not prepared in general. If you feel you are properly prepared, then that is great...have a fun time!

[Perfect Pony]

Chanda, I don't mean this in a rude way at all, but after reading this thread, I think you may find it wise to really re-read your own posts and what people are saying to you, you may someday see why people treat you the way they do. I also get the feeling that even if your horse had absolutely nothing whatsoever wrong with him, you would manage to find something, as well as a reason no one could ride him except you.

Pocket Pony, I think you should do a GM clinic with Paddy sooner than later, I happen to know for a fact you are 100% ready for one. Remind me to tell you the story about the video Gunnar has of her clinic experience. There was one girl in the clinic on one heck of a difficult horse that she rode at the last minute, it was hilarious. GM also got on Gunnar's horse Bodie and ended up doing a piaffe that would have made even the most talented GP dressage rider proud.

[Illyria]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Chanda:
I just want to guard him against any strain to that shoulder. I am only able to protect him if I am the one riding him because I can FEEL it. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>
IMO, if you can feel it then so will Richard Spooner be able to, should he happen to get on him. And who knows, perhaps he may know some exercises that will help.

[Coreene]

Chanda, what are you going to do during the very long flat phase if he asks for shoulder in, haunches in etc?

AAJumper you are SO right.

[Chanda]

What's wrong with shoulder in and haunches in? I do those to strengthen his shoulder?

I think you are just trying to be argumentitive now and I am not going to respond anymore.

[ClemsonGraduateRider]

I agree with those who would be thrilled if Richard Spooner wanted to ride my horse.

I also wonder why you are riding this horse at all if such a slight change or disruption in routine could cause, what appears to be an always lingering injury, to reoccur. I'm honestly wondering, would a spook to a certain direction seriously hurt your horse? I understand if you don't want to answer but it sounds as though Chase may just be perpetually injured?? http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_confused.gif I just can't imagine that a horse that fragile should be worked at all.

[Coreene]

I just figured that if you were so worried about bending you might be worried about lateral work. Unless his nose is attached to his backside, I can't understand the problem.

Chanda, really. You asked about saddles and then shot back at everyone who bothered to give advice, because you knew better. Ditto on hunt coats, ditto on double bridles, ditto on the double dressage whips. Learn from it, girl. The lesson is right there: don't come asking for advice and then shoot the messengers.

[Robby Johnson]

My advice would be this - you cannot control every little thing that happens. We all try; we're all control freaks. But they're horses and they usually don't break as easily as we think they might.

I have organized many clinics and will organize many more. I am always politely tolerant of the participants who have a lot of "if A then B" conditions. As the organizer, I normally brief the clinician on the riders the first day, then the clinician does their own research.

Aside from Blyth Tait, who got on three horses the weekend he taught for me in Dallas, Kim Severson - for whom I've organized six clinics, has ridden one horse during that entire time.

For the most part, riders at that level don't want to take a chance on a less-than-safe horse. (Edgy New Zealander's aside!)

Try to clear your mind and be open to new ideas and philosophies. Otherwise, you're wasting $400.

Robby

[On Second Thought]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Illyria:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Chanda:
I just want to guard him against any strain to that shoulder. I am only able to protect him if I am the one riding him because I can FEEL it. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>
IMO, if you can feel it then so will Richard Spooner be able to, should he happen to get on him. And who knows, perhaps he may know some exercises that will help. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Holy Crap, Chanda, that HAS to much make so much sense it makes your head want to cave in! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[jetsmom]

I know exactly the type of horse we are talking about. You guys are all wrong. I know there is such a thing as a horse that only one person can ride. I even saw the movie about it.
I think it was called "The Black Stallion". And, just to make sure that everyone is really sure it exists, there was even a sequel, called "The Black Stallion Returns".
So, there!

[DMK]

You must have totally forgot about "The YOUNG Black Stallion" - just goes to show that even the Black let TWO people ride him. So there! http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif

[jetsmom]

Yeah, but that was before the ship sunk and he got washed up onto the beach hurting his shoulder, so he could only gallop around the island to the left!

[DMK]

Stop... stop... please stop.... &lt;whimper&gt; *gasp*

[Pocket Pony]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR> Yeah, but that was before the ship sunk and he got washed up onto the beach hurting his shoulder, so he could only gallop around the island to the left! <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

OMGiH, I think I'm going to pee my pants!!! http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif

[Lisamarie8]

OK, Chanda, I know that probably hurt your feelings, but deep down... if you REALLY dig, you have to admit that was funny as hell! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

[Lisa Cook]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by DMK:
You must have totally forgot about "The YOUNG Black Stallion" - just goes to show that even the Black let TWO people ride him. So there! http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

And if you count the books and not just the movies, THREE people rode The Black. Alec Ramsey's girlfriend rode him in one book.

Uh, not that I ever read that series much as a kid, or anything... http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

[A. Roose]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Lisa Cook:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by DMK:
You must have totally forgot about "The YOUNG Black Stallion" - just goes to show that even the Black let TWO people ride him. So there! http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

And if you count the books and not just the movies, THREE people rode The Black. Alec Ramsey's girlfriend rode him in one book.
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Yeah, but if you recall, it was shortly thereafter that the Black threw out his back and was laid up for months. Alex started dating much thinner girls after that. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

[good booie]

What is clearly obvious here is that you have a LAME horse. Why on earth would you take him to a clinic????? If his shoulder is strained or whatever his malfunction is it is clear he needs time off. So you already spent the $400 dollars. SO WHAT! Get over it and take care of your horse.

IMO if you think that taking him in a *lower level* of what he can normally do jumping will be ok because of his injury you are out of your mind.

I am not quite sure who was bent in the womb. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_confused.gif Or who's ship sank first.

[jetsmom]

Good booie,
He's not lame. He just can't bend to one direction. She should be able to do most of the exercises. If, for example, there is a bending line to the left, and the horse can't be bent left safely, then all she needs to do is politely ask Mr. Spooner for permission to do the line backwards, which will now make it a bending line to the RIGHT! Same exercise, only safer for a horse handicapped with the ill misfortune of having been crooked in the womb.

[good booie]

My bad. ok, so then she should pose as a really nervous amateur that does not quite understand the you should take the jumps with the flowers facing you. I've got it now. I just knew there was a clear explanation. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/winkgrin.gif

[Pocket Pony]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR> She should be able to do most of the exercises. If, for example, there is a bending line to the left, and the horse can't be bent left safely, then all she needs to do is politely ask Mr. Spooner for permission to do the line backwards, which will now make it a bending line to the RIGHT! <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

I think the ADA would find that acceptable. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Lisamarie8]

i think i just pee'd a little

[jetsmom]

Pocket Pony- The ADA, equine division is very clear on the right to equal treatment of handicapped equines.
Rule 6624.3c states- Every qualifying handicapped equine must be permitted access to the same level of training as non-handicapped equines, not limited to: pro-rides (regardless if your trainer fears for their life while on them), clinics, and schooling shows. In the event that it is a clinic or show, allowances must be made to give the handicapped equine equal access to all jumps. This can be accomplished by flowers on both sides of the jumps, invisible poles for those horses that have a jump height phobia, and mandatory clapping of the audience after the handicapped equine completes a round (or a fence or 2) so as not to damage the self esteem of the emotionally fragile handicapped equine.
Rule 6524b-All handicapped equines shall have equal access to turnout as non handicapped equines. While turned out, a single side rein should be used on those equines suffering from "crooked in the womb" syndrome, to prevent the afflicted equine from accidentally bending to the afflicted side and causing further disability.
There are many other ADA rules for handicapped equines, but I've only posted the most applicable.
For those of you making fun of the Black Stallion, please be aware that the ADA also is closely affiliated with the NAACE (National Association For The Advancement Of Colored Equines) and prefers not to use the word "Black". We like to refer to it as Lightness Challenged.
Black has too many negative connotations.

[Pocket Pony]

Ooooh boy, here we go!

Thanks for the update on the equine ADA laws, jetsmom. That was very helpful. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif

[Tin]

hmm... does that apply to horses who are, er... shall I say one flake short of a bale? because man, I could really use that to my advantage! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

[fleur]

jetsmom http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

[lauriep]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by jetsmom:
Pocket Pony- The ADA, equine division is very clear on the right to equal treatment of handicapped equines.
Rule 6624.3c states- Every qualifying handicapped equine must be permitted access to the same level of training as non-handicapped equines, not limited to: pro-rides (regardless if your trainer fears for their life while on them), clinics, and schooling shows. In the event that it is a clinic or show, allowances must be made to give the handicapped equine equal access to all jumps. This can be accomplished by flowers on both sides of the jumps, invisible poles for those horses that have a jump height phobia, and mandatory clapping of the audience after the handicapped equine completes a round (or a fence or 2) so as not to damage the self esteem of the emotionally fragile handicapped equine.
Rule 6524b-All handicapped equines shall have equal access to turnout as non handicapped equines. While turned out, a single side rein should be used on those equines suffering from "crooked in the womb" syndrome, to prevent the afflicted equine from accidentally bending to the afflicted side and causing further disability.
There are many other ADA rules for handicapped equines, but I've only posted the most applicable.
For those of you making fun of the Black Stallion, please be aware that the ADA also is closely affiliated with the NAACE (National Association For The Advancement Of Colored Horses) and prefers not to use the word "Black". We like to refer to it as Lightness Challenged.
Black has too many negative connotations. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

OH. MY. GOD. That is perhaps the funniest thing I have read since being on these boards.

DMK, girl, your reign as resident cynic is being challenged!!!

[Coreene]

Said Chanda: <BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>maybe open up my mind for a change. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE> http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_eek.gif

Between the saddle fitting, coat, whips, double bridle, rein length, psuedo-dressage, nose-touching-ass and all of the other trite stuff which we are peeing ourselves about, you have already demonstrated that the mind is not only closed, it is welded shut. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif

My guess is that Chase would just squeal with delight to be ridden by one of our top international riders, who can make his mom's school horses look like something Anky would take to World Cup, who would make Chase bend and stretch and lengthen and do it all without double whips, a double bridle and being held to one side.

He deserves it! But most emphatically not in a clinic full of other people who paid to learn! You're not even tacked up and you've already closed yourself off to learning a thing, but you're prepared to go and let innocent people piss away $400 because you, in your unwavering determination to prove that you are right, have already decided that Richard is wrong, and will waste everyone else's time and money while you try and prove it to everyone else. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/dead.gif

[dropitlikeitshot]

Absolutely without a doubt peeing myself RIGHT NOW http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[dropitlikeitshot]

This post no longer had meaning since the other was deleted before I could get here to "edit."

Please return to your regularly scheduled COTHness.

[DMK]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by lauriep:
OH. MY. GOD. That is perhaps the funniest thing I have read since being on these boards.

DMK, girl, your reign as resident cynic is being challenged!!! <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

jetsmom doesn't post often, but as I recall she has always had a special gift... leaving one to wonder which branch of the ADA recognizes her special gift? http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[JustJump]

What a way to wake up!!! Here I thought the thread got so long because Chanda was describing what had happened at the clinic...now we've got the ADA Equine Act!!

Everyone else is sleeping, and I am trying not to spit the coffee all over the floor, I'm laughing so hard!

OMG. Chanda. If Chase is truly that fragile, he just simply shouldn't be a riding horse. Retire him now. Turn him out, forget him. Or wake up and admit that you have somehow micromanaged yourself into a corner. Who is your trainer? Is she nuts? Or just one of those insane dressage queens? Maybe you are trying to do the wrong discipline altogether. Would you feel the same way about Robert Dover getting on your horse? Please. You are in California. Surely there are counselers available to deal with your type of fear. Does that poor horse get turned out? Or do you protect him from that, too? Look at yourself, Chanda! You have fallen straight off your rocker!!!

And I'm trying to think...what would I POSSIBLY want to undo if the guy who DROVE ALL NIGHT ON 10 MINUTES NOTICE TO RIDE IN THE NATIONS CUP FINAL THE WEEK OF 9-11-01 rode my horse?

Talk about inspiration for not letting anything get in the way of your goals.

Don't you have any goals anymore? Or are you afraid to set them? Come to your senses. You have spent ENOUGH time NOT doing things with that horse. Either not do it (again) or: suck it up and go to the clinic, DO EVERYTHING you are asked to (including handing over the reins if the miniscule odds of that happening go against you), and SHUT UP while you are doing it. You will live. SO will Chase.

Sorry, but you need a BIG reality check.

[levremont]

Chanda I have to aggree with most of the posters on here, audit the clinic. What are you getting Chase ready to do? You do realise that jumpers require, speed, scope, agility right? How do you think this horse you have to protect from hurting himself constantly could possibly successfully do any decent level of jumpers? As a jumper rider I have to get my horse fit, strong and ready to go in the ring and in the ring I need to be able to depend on him, if I have to worry constantly about him overbending, hurting his shoulder, his back, his mind (yes all horses are crooked, somehow most manage just fine!)I will never be competative at all. It really sounds like either your horse needs to retire or you need to let go a little.

[Nickelodian]

I do believe I may just have been witness to a TMP invasion.

[KateDB]

Isn't this one a no brainer?
You don't think your horse is "fit" for the clinic, you don't really have an interest in trying new things and you don't trust someone else getting on your horse in order to better understand his way of going and improve both you and the horse....
For the sake of the clinician, the other participants and your horse...don't go!
Going to the clinic would be completely selfish and inconsiderate to everyone involved.
Chalk the $400 up to a lesson learned...and stick with your current program, since it works so well for you.

[texan]

chanda, i understand your concern, but it might help to look at it from another angle. Maybe, just maybe what will happen is that Chase will respond in a positive way. I have a very high strung, sensative tb, that by no means likes all riders. One of Canada's top riders got on him, and let me tell you, she cantered that horse around on a loose rein, throwing in small jumps as she went. He was relaxed, and responsive. I have it on tape, it really was amazing. Please try to go into the clinic with an open positive mind as usually our fears turn out to be unfounded. Good luck, and i hope you have a great time.

[jetsmom]

DMK- Are you trying to say that "even a blind squirrel can find a few nuts sometimes?"
Lauriep- Glad to provide a little humor for you. DMK is my idol...The wit, the horses and she lives in GA which I have wonderful memories of.

[Erin]

PennyForYourThoughts, I deleted your first post. I'm sure you can find a way to make your point without name-calling.

Be nice, be respectful, be polite. Thank you.

[Magnolia]

Here's a thought - borrow someone elses horse to ride if you are worried about your horse getting hurt or losing out on the opportunity to ride with Richard Spooner. If Chase is in such a strict program with such specific needs, you may not get value from riding him with a new person, especialy if you are concerned about hurting him. Borrow a horse. Work on YOU. Have fun.

[Coreene]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by texan:
Please try to go into the clinic with an open positive mind <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>
http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif

If she goes and tells Richard first about the womb thing, she's paying to give him a story he can tell at dinner parties for years.

One of the best examples of what a great rider can do was witnessed by a bunch of us, about six years ago or so, when Richard was down at our place for the Summer Classic. His mom had a schoolie that refused to do a thing, so Richard jumped on and gave that horse a Come To Jesus ride which had the horse demonstrating that, deep down, it was indeed an elastic dressage horse AND could pop over four feet without batting an eyelash. I swear that pony was smiling at the end.

[DMK]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by jetsmom:
DMK- Are you trying to say that "even a blind squirrel can find a few nuts sometimes?" <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Hell yes! It's been my governing principle as it relates to finding eight fences in any given class!

[Bumpkin]

LOL Coreene, you are right, the womb theory is something, that perhaps even Reader's Digest may even pay good money for.
hmmmmmmmmmmm http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif

[Midge]

Holy piling on, Batman!!!

Do I think Chanda is out there as far as her concerns about the clinc? Certainly!!

Do I think she deserves being the butt of some rather cruel jokes? Nope!

I think we should save this amount of cruelty for the people who under serve their horses, rather than over.

Chanda, if your horse is sound enough, go to the clinic and try to do everything you are asked with an open mind, including Richard sitting on him. I have never been disappointed with the results of having a better rider on my horse, even if it di bruise my ego. If he is not sound enough, go and audit and ask them to give you a credit on a future clinic.

[mygenie]

OMGIH, I am STILL trying to get my head around the womb theory. I mean: No freaking wonder H/J folks don't care about breeding (see KWF's threat), if we are not even sure weather they are going to come out straight!! http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif

Jetsmom: http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif

[Inverness]

Maybe this is why I can never get my horse straight to a fence? And here I thought it was due to my faulty steering. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Jasmine]

I've actually heard that theory from my trainer, as a reason the horse I ride won't pick up a right lead canter all the time. I kind of figured it was just that he needs more muscle, and a hock injection or two. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/winkgrin.gif

[Chef Jade]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Midge:
Holy piling on, Batman!!!

Do I think Chanda is out there as far as her concerns about the clinc? Certainly!!

Do I think she deserves being the butt of some rather cruel jokes? Nope!

I think we should save this amount of cruelty for the people who under serve their horses, rather than over.

<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

I totally agree, Midge! Why don't those who choose to berate and belittle take their discussion off-line if they feel the need to be so rude? Or at least save it for those who over-work, underfeed, and neglect their animals. Jeez. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

How is Chanda's protection (or arguably over-protection) of her horse harming you all in anyway?

Back to the topic at hand: Chanda, I do agree that if you feel you can't give it 100%, and even allow Richard to ride Chase in the rare chance he will want to, I would just audit. Someone also had a great suggestion of borrowing a horse. Is that an option?

[JER]

Seriously, who came up with this womb theory?

This explains why I spend a good part of every day fighting the urge to curl up in a fetal position. I used to think it was stress but now I feel so much better about it!

[jetsmom]

Maybe Richard was also crooked in the womb on the opposite side as Chase. If so, he might be able to get on that horse and get a bend that would make Olga Korbut jealous! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Oooh, I just dated myself...Is anyone else old enough to remember who Olga Korbut was?

Oh, and I hope Chanda knows that some of us are truly just engaging in what is meant to be harmless fun. But if it gets too rough, there is a universal signal that let's Erin know that the thread needs to be locked...it is "pfffft".
It seems to work rather well, judging from past threads where it was used to that effect by another poster! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Inverness]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by jetsmom:
Maybe Richard was also crooked in the womb on the opposite side as Chase. If so, he might be able to get on that horse and get a bend that would make Olga Korbut jealous! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Oooh, I just dated myself...Is anyone else old enough to remember who Olga Korbut was?

) <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

I'll see your Olga Korbut and raise you Ludmila Turischeva (sp?). http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Fessy's Mom]

jetsmom - you are my hero! http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/sadsmile.gif

Oh, and Nadia was better! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

For me, Chanda threads have me intrigued because being an optimist, I am always hoping to see that one post of hers where she tells everyone that we were right - that she is way overprotective, that it's NOT necessary to ride with a double bridle, shadow roll and two dressage whips, etc. etc.

Will any of us live to see that day? I think it will not only be a happy day for us, but for Chanda too! http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif

[Louise]

You know, I don't come over to H/J very often, but I heard about this thread.

There is some good information and advice here for Chanda. There is some funny stuff here too. But, its beginning to deteriorate into a strictly "slam Chanda" thread.

So -- pfffft

Thread closed.