Buffalo, NY – November 19, 2013 – The tall boots were shined, the riders wore their best breeches, and their horses were groomed to perfection as the world-renowned George Morris stood center ring at the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center (BTRC). For over 25 years, the George H. Morris Educational Seminar has been a tradition at the BTRC, hosting one of the most popular and insightful clinics. Morris returned to the historical center in Buffalo, NY, from November 8-10, 2013 to continue the tradition.   

Morris has provided an invaluable wealth of knowledge to students and auditors attending his clinics for years, working to further each rider’s skills both in the aspects of horsemanship and riding. The Educational Seminar not only acted as a learning experience for riders and was a part of the USHJA Trainer Certification Program, but it also raised funds to continue the progressive work of the BTRC.  

Although Morris is not directly involved in the program, he admitted that he is always very happy to indirectly help the BTRC in any way possible, and one of those ways is the overwhelmingly popular George H. Morris Educational Seminar. A celebrated horseman, Morris has played a vital role, not only in the growth of countless horses and riders, but also in the development of the current equestrian sport. He has often been referred to as the “founding father” of hunt seat equitation. Second to none, his teachings, technique, and style are admired around the world. His clinics are a rare and exceptional opportunity for riders of all levels and ages to learn from the finest.   

“Susie [Schoellkopf] runs a very tight ship, which I like,” Morris explained. “Everything is very organized. It is a big ring with great footing. She is such a wonderful person. I return every year to Buffalo, not only because I enjoy the facility, the program and the people, but also because Buffalo is very nostalgic to me–my mother used to exercise polo ponies in the very same ring I now teach.”

Morris explained further about his annual clinic, “I never know when I give a lesson, with the rare exception that I am schooling a horse for a show, I never know what I am going to do. I set the fences everyday at the clinic, and everyday I slightly change the fences. I have a basic course with gymnastics and cavaletti, and each day I change it on a whim. The night before I jot ideas on a piece of paper, but I don’t have any preconceived ideas, I teach by feel and what I see.”     

SBS Executive Director Susan B. Schoellkopf organized the George H. Morris Educational Seminar. The purpose behind the clinic was for riders to gain firsthand knowledge for success in the sport. The clinic, held November 8-10, 2013, included eight riders from three varying groups of experience (Intermediate, Advanced, Jumper) as well as auditors who gathered to experience Morris’ teaching and guidance.  

“He’s amazing, and all of his clinics are always so beneficial, whether you are riding or auditing,” Schoellkopf described. “It is amazing what he can do, he provides a huge variety in his teaching, and it’s a must for anyone who wants to train or ride.”

Throughout the duration of the clinic, Morris focused on teaching riders and auditors alike about proper horsemanship, correct riding, and the foundation of equitation. He explained, “It’s always based on my interpretation, and what comes off of that. Whatever ring or country you are in, the basics are always the same. Nothing stays the same. Each clinic is very different, even though the structure is the same.”

Morris concluded, “This is one of my best clinics, and Susie and I have very close ties.

I am very comfortable in the ring, and Susie is such an organizer, and such a great horsewoman. It was a wonderful time in Buffalo.”

Based out of Buffalo, NY, SBS Farms’ Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano run one of the foremost show hunter training operations in the country, and travel nationwide to compete in the nation’s most prestigious horse shows. SBS Farms, Inc. continues the proud tradition of the Saddle and Bridle Club as one of the top show stables in the northeast. Schoellkopf is also the Executive Director of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, which houses both The Buffalo Equestrian Center as well as SBS Farms. Built in 1922, the 160-stall facility is a historical landmark, with its unique English Tudor and gothic style architecture. For more information on SBS Farms and the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, please visit www.thebtrc.org.