Clinics & Workshops - Details

January 7

Youth Horsemanship Afternoon Class
Thursdays 3:45-5:15

January 31

Harmony in Horsemanship
Maple Ridge Stable, Indoor Workshop, 1-3:30 pm

Learn how the power of your words and thoughts can drastically change and improve your relationship with your horse. This workshop will focus on softness, awareness and communication, based on the theories of Centered Riding and the martial arts. I will include exercises learned from Mark Rashid’s 3-day Aikido for Horsemanship clinic. Come and learn how improving your mindfulness can greatly enhance your horsemanship skills.

Contact: Heidi Potter; Click here for: Registration Form

February 6

Centered Riding Clinic Day at Maple Valley Stables

30 Woods Hollow Rd. Westford, VT 05494
Contact: Julie Reynolds 802-879-7348, jrey7348@gmail.com or maplevalleystables@gmail.com.

February 18-22

CHA Instructor Certification Clinic.
All Discipline Standard Instructor Certification

Kentucky Horse Park
4089 Iron Works Pkwy., Lexington, KY 40511
(859) 259-4290; Contact: Laurie Brown

More About CHA

February 28

Improving Confidence / Managing Fear
Maple Ridge Stable, Indoor Workshop 1-3:30

Experiencing fear is common, but for some it can seriously inhibit their ability to enjoy something they truly love. This session will help participants learn how to listen to their fear, analyze it and decide the best way to handle it. Equine psychology will be explored to enhance our understanding of why our horses do what they do. Specific exercises to help participants re-establish trust and regain confidence will be practiced throughout this session.

Contact: Heidi Potter; Click here for: Registration Form

March 8-12

CHA Instructor Certification Clinic
The Oaks Equestrian Center, Lake City Florida 32024

Contact: Rhonda Gailey
General Manager/ Riding Director & Instructor
The Oaks Equestrian Center - an O'Connor Signature Facility
& Pony Club Riding Center- Center Administrator
211 SW Theodore O'Connor Circle
Lake City Florida 32024
Office - 386-755-1488 Extension #11
Fax - 386-755-1490
Cell - 386-628-2307
RhondaG@OconnorOEC.com
www.OConnorOEC.com

March 20-21

Centered Riding Open Clinic
Hearts & Horses Therapeutic Riding Center

63 Justin Merrill Rd, Buxton, Maine 04093
Contact: Stephanie Keene at 207-929-4700, or hnhtrc@roadrunner.com

Riders of every discipline and level are welcomed to participate in these open clinics. Walk/trot to seasoned competitors will benefit from obtaining a thorough understanding of the basics. Participants will learn how to communicate more clearly through their bodies, leading to a more, relaxed, trusting and enjoyable relationship with their horse.

March 27-28

Centered Riding Open Clinic at Baymare Farm, Springfield, VT

Miranda Bogardus, Baymare Farm
257 Elm Hill, Springfield, VT 05156
802-885-3090; baymarefarm@gmail.com

Riders of every discipline and level are welcomed to participate in these open clinics. Walk/trot to seasoned competitors will benefit from obtaining a thorough understanding of the basics. Participants will learn how to communicate more clearly through their bodies, leading to a more, relaxed, trusting and enjoyable relationship with their horse.

April 3

Centered Riding Open Clinic Day
Heritage Farm, Easthampton, MA.

Contact: Maureen Raucher at 413-427-5035

Riders of every discipline and level are welcomed to participate in these open clinics. Walk/trot to seasoned competitors will benefit from obtaining a thorough understanding of the basics. Participants will learn how to communicate more clearly through their bodies, leading to a more, relaxed, trusting and enjoyable relationship with their horse.

April 8-9

(Thursday-Friday)

Centered Riding Open Clinic
Sprouse's Corner Ranch, LLC
16680 W James Anderson Hwy, Buckingham, Va 23921

www.SprousesCornerRanch.com

Contact: LaRue Dowd
434-983-8181, laruelanes@yahoo.com

April 15-18

April 15-18 Centered Riding Update Clinic at Southmowing Stables, Brattleboro, VT

April 20

Lessons Begin at Maple Ridge Stable

April 24-25

Champlain Valley Expo, Essex Junction, VT

May 1-2

Equine Behavior Seminar
with Dr. Jeannine Berger, DVM

The goal of this seminar is to introduce the basic principles of Learning Theory. In this 2-day lecture and practical seminar, we will apply Learning Theory principals to horse handling and training. Regardless of riding style, the proper understanding and application of Learning Theory will help ensure proper equine welfare in all aspects of horse handling. In the Basics I seminar, topics such as classical and operant conditioning, as applied to horse handling and training, will be introduced.

In addition, the Basics I seminar will also cover the different behavior mechanisms of the horse. Perception, motivation, response to external and internal stimuli, and the affect of humans with the horse will be investigated. We will discuss and understand how new behavior evolves and how we can teach any new behavior in a fun and exciting way for both the horse and handler. The level of this course is geared for the horse enthusiast, as well as the professional rider. Participation is mandatory in the first day lecture to be eligible to participate with a horse in the 2nd day, practical portion of the seminar. Another 2 days of appointments are available to assist with individual cases.

Contact: Heidi Potter; Click here for: Registration Form
Equine Behavior Seminar Brochure | Poster

May 3-4

Equine Behavior Private Sessions
with Dr. Jeannine Berger, DVM

Contact: Heidi Potter; Click here for: Registration Form
Equine Behavior Seminar Brochure | Poster

May 7-8

Centered Riding Open Clinic at Pony Farm, Temple, NH

Contact: 603-654-6308
Lorna Young lornayoungpf@yahoo.com

Riders of every discipline and level are welcomed to participate in these open clinics. Walk/trot to seasoned competitors will benefit from obtaining a thorough understanding of the basics. Participants will learn how to communicate more clearly through their bodies, leading to a more, relaxed, trusting and enjoyable relationship with their horse.

May 15

Round Pen Workshop
Maple Ridge Stable, 1-5:00 pm

Our annual Round Pen Workshops are designed for those new to round pen training and/or those who want help problem solving or improving their technique. The focus is on mindfulness, accurately reading the horse, correct timing and doing as little as possible to get the desired result. The spring session is a great opportunity to get your horse out, traveling and “tuned up” before the clinic & show season begins. Bring your own horse or learn from one of ours. These workshops are limited to six participants and unlimited auditors. The cost is $75 to participate and $25 to audit. Register early as these fill up quickly.

Contact: Heidi Potter; Click here for: Registration Form

May 30

Maple Ridge Farm Clean-up Day
1:30 pm, with Cookout at 4:00

June 5

Horsemanship for Husbands Workshop
Maple Ridge Stable, 1-3:30 pm

The Horsemanship for Husbands Workshop is a new addition to our season. This idea came from a couple of clients who were looking for someone to help with educating their “significant others” in the way of horsemanship. This “non-gender specific” workshop is designed for family members, spouses and anyone, who “by default”, must assist in the care of family horses. When one handles a horse they are either training or un-training the horse. This hands-on session will include explanation of equine psychology and discussion on why horses do what they do. There will be a main focus on safe handling in a variety of situations. Participants can either bring a horse or use one of ours. Limited to 8 participants so please register early. Session runs from 1-3:30. Cost is $75.00 to participate and $25.00 to audit.

Contact: Heidi Potter; Click here for: Registration Form

June 7-11

CHA Instructor Certification Clinic at Pony Farm, Temple, NH

Contact: 603-654-6308
Lorna Young lornayoungpf@yahoo.com

June 25-27

Dressage & Jumping Multi-Discipline Clinic, with Mitzi Summers, Maple Ridge Stable

A.J.A. Judge, Level IV Centered Riding© clinician, friend and mentor, Mitzi Summers, will be here this summer for a day of lessons and a two-day Multi-Discipline Dressage & Jumping Clinic at the Guilford Fairgrounds. The morning sessions will focus on learning or improving your horses way of going through Dressage, including riding a test and being judged on the second day. Dressage done correctly benefits horses of all levels, disciplines, and breeds. No Dressage experience is needed! Afternoon sessions will be for those interested in learning how to help build their horse‘s confidence over jumps along with those who are experienced and want to improve. Rider position and a safe progression of exercises will be included. Riders can choose to participate in either or both sessions. Ms. Summers is a very highly experienced and well respected trainer, instructor and judge who travels the world sharing her knowledge

Contact: Heidi Potter; Click here for: Registration Form

July 12-16

Youth Horsemanship Camp, for Intermediate Riders (Walk/Trot/Canter), Ages 10 & up

July 24-25

Gaining Confidence & Building Trust Clinic
Maple Ridge Stable

This two-day clinic is designed for riders of all levels and disciplines. The goal is to help participants re-establish trust and re-gain confidence with their equine partners. Each day begins with classroom time learning and practicing exercises designed to help control emotions and thoughts. Mid-morning we begin our series of groundwork exercises to improve communication and leadership skills with our horses. We finish each day with work under saddle. This work includes exercises for horse and rider to help them relax, be more safe and enjoy a more respectful and trusting relationship. This clinic is limited to 12 participants, with horses and stabling available on a first come, first serve basis. Please reserve your spot early. A $100 deposit is required. The cost of this clinic is $275 ($250 for registration by May 15) Auditors are encouraged and welcomed for $35 per day.

Contact: Heidi Potter; Click here for: Registration Form

July 26-30

Youth Horsemanship Camp for Walk/Trot Riders, Ages 10 & up

August 16-20

Youth Horsemanship Camp for Aspiring Equestrians, Ages 8 & up

August 28-29

Centered Riding Open Clinic

Host: Barbara Brasso
68 Rockwell Road, Queensbury, NY 12804
Phone 518-793-3276. E-mail: blbrassel@yahoo.com

September 6

Guilford Fair Open Horse Show
Mitzi Summers, Judge

September 11-12

Centered Riding Open Clinic
Davis, CA

Contact: Heidi Potter at heidi@inharmonywithhorses.com, 802-380-3268; Registration Form

Riders of every discipline and level are welcomed to participate in these open clinics. Walk/trot to seasoned competitors will benefit from obtaining a thorough understanding of the basics. Participants will learn how to communicate more clearly through their bodies, leading to a more, relaxed, trusting and enjoyable relationship with their horse.

September 21-22

Evening Clinics, 5-8 pm

Afternoon Private Sessions

Ranch Roping with Jon Ensign

New opportunities for learning from Montana Horseman Jon Ensign. This is a progressive clinic with a one-day option for those who just want to learn the first steps. Safety is very important in this clinic. Therefore, only riders and horses who seem ready will be able to practice throwing at the cows.

Day 1 includes learning the elements of handling, coiling, & throwing the ropes at various stationary “targets”. Limited to 15 participants.

Day 2 is for those more serious about throwing from horseback. Their horses need to have had some desensitizing work with ropes and be relatively quiet with this work. They also need to be familiar and secure working with cows. Day 2 is limited to 10 participants.

Private sessions for preparation will be available during the day on Wednesday the 22nd, prior to the clinic. These private sessions will be on a first come, first served basis.

Held at Heritage Farm in Easthampton, Massachusetts

Fees: September 21, $60. September 22, $85. Sign up for both sessions for $130.

Registration Form

September 18

Round Pen Workshop
Maple Ridge Stable, 1-5:00

Our annual Round Pen Workshops are designed for those new to round pen training and/or those who want help problem solving or improving their technique. The focus is on mindfulness, accurately reading the horse, correct timing and doing as little as possible to get the desired result. The spring session is a great opportunity to get your horse out, traveling and “tuned up” before the clinic & show season begins. Bring your own horse or learn from one of ours. These workshops are limited to six participants and unlimited auditors. The cost is $75 to participate and $25 to audit. Register early as these fill up quickly.

Contact: Heidi Potter; Click here for: Registration Form

September 23-26

Jon Ensign Colt Starting Clinic
at Maple Ridge Stable

Jon Ensign will be returning this fall Don’t miss a chance to work with this Master of Natural Horsemanship. Sessions include a Colt Starting/Restarting clinic beginning Thursday, September 23-26 from 9-12:00. The focus will be on starting or restarting young, green or troubled horses. Jon’s events fill up quickly so please sign up early to ensure your spot!

Jon Ensign Clinic Registration Form

September 25-26

Jon Ensign Advanced Horsemanship Clinic
at Maple Ridge Stable

The Advanced Horsemanship clinic is designed for riders of any discipline who have worked with Jon in the past and/or those who are able to safely and comfortably ride in a group situation. Participants should be comfortable riding at the walk/trot and have experience riding at the lope or canter. The focus will be on developing skills under saddle. Topics will include moving all parts of the horse, developing softness and relaxation in the horse, desensitizing work and exercises out of the ring. For fun we will include some roping practice-off the horse with an option for progression to roping from horseback. This work is great for desensitizing even if you never plan on roping a live cow! Those who haven't ridden with Jon in the past may schedule a session with him on one of the two afternoons prior to the clinic (see below). The Horsemanship clinic will run from 1:30-4:00 on Saturday & Sunday, September 25th & 26th for a cost of $275.00 with an early bird rate of $250 if $150 deposit is received by July 15th.

Jon Ensign Clinic Registration Form

September 23-24

Private Lessons with Jon Ensign

Private sessions can include respect training on the ground, under saddle work or problem solving of any kind. Sessions will be available at Maple Ridge on Thursday and Friday, September 23rd & 24th for a cost of $75. A $25 deposit is required upon scheduling.

October 2-3

Centered Riding Open Clinic
Sprouse's Corner Ranch, LLC
16680 W James Anderson Hwy, Buckingham, Va 23921

www.SprousesCornerRanch.com

Contact: LaRue Dowd
434-983-8181, laruelanes@yahoo.com

October 9-10

Centered Riding Open Clinic
Kindred Pointe Stables
3575 Conicville Rd. Mount Jackson, VA 222842

www.kindredpointestables.com

Contact: Claire Livesay, Stable Manager
540-477-3570, clivesay@kindredpointestables.com

Riders of every discipline and level are welcomed to participate in these open clinics. Walk/trot to seasoned competitors will benefit from obtaining a thorough understanding of the basics. Participants will learn how to communicate more clearly through their bodies, leading to a more, relaxed, trusting and enjoyable relationship with their horse.

October 21-24

CHA International Conference
Oakes Equestrian Center, Lake City, FL

November 5-7

Centered Riding Symposium
Brattleboro, VT

November 20-21

Centered Riding Open Clinic
Hide Away Acres, 1425 Simmons Rd, Kissimmee, FL

Contact: Ellie Cook
hideawayacres@earthlink.net 407-973-3169