Amateur Dilemma

By, Meredith Rogers

It’s that time of year again when we start to look at the show schedule and plot our plan. But, even if we don’t show, this is still a time to think about goals for the upcoming year. If you are lucky enough to have an indoor, you may even be starting to actually work on your goals. If you don’t have much opportunity to ride during the winter, you can still prep for better weather. For example, you can take the time you normally spend riding and watch YouTube videos that provide insight into a problem you’re having.

There are two competing theories of improvement. The old way of thinking is strength-based, where you build on skills you already possess. However, this can lead to a false sense of confidence. The new way of looking at growth is to critically examine what you need to improve and work on those skills. This involves a lot of selfreflection, which isn’t always pretty. No one likes to have their weaknesses pointed out, even by ourselves. Nevertheless, critical feedback has been shown to provide the motivation needed to work on what needs to be worked on.

For me, it’s always my position that I need to work on. I am jumping full in on trying to fix it this winter. My trainer has been very creative and I’ve seen improvements as we attack the problem(s). But, we’re also not ignoring what I need to learn to show 3rd level. So, my overarching goal is to fix my position, so I can be more effective at getting flying changes, half-pass, and all the other requirements of 3rd. My goal for showing has always been to ride as well at shows and I do at home, and I want to ride well at home.

“New year, new you” doesn’t have to be just a cute phrase. Look in the mirror, have that difficult talk with your trainer, and pick one thing that you want to work on to improve. Then, figure out the best way to go about it, whether that be changing how you ride or doing some reading/watching. Once you’re well on your way in accomplishing that goal, move on to another and then another and then another. By spring, you’ll be amazed with where you are! (At least that’s what I tell myself.)

Working towards getting back here!

Let's Ride the 2023 Dressage Tests

A Symposium featuring Jeanne McDonald, S and Jim Koford, USDF Gold Medalist

Delaware Valley University Equestrian Center

Doylestown, PA

Saturday, April 15, 2023

Jeanne McDonald is a well-respected judge and trainer She is currently a USEF “S”and FEI**** judge. She holds her Bronze, Silver and Gold medals, and sat on the committee to write the 2019 dressage tests.

Jim Koford is a well-known competitor and coach who has his USDF Bronze, Silver and Gold medals. He is a regular competitor and winner at the US Dressage Finals, frequently showing non-traditional breed horses to the highest levels of dressage.

They will give the auditors and riders a unique perspective on riding & perfecting the 2023 dressage tests from Training level through Fourth level from both a judge’s & trainer’s viewpoint.

Demonstration Riders being sought for each level! Application and selection procedure can be found on StriderPro.com

CLINIC PRICE:

$50 per rider includes test of choice for the level with commentary followed by a short training session

AUDIT PRICE:

$50 pre-registered $60 at the door (will include snacks and water)

A copy of Negative Coggins (dated within 12 months of the event) and a copy of the LVDA waiver must be submitted at time of application. Rider applicants please read all criteria before submitting videos.

RIDER APPLICATION DEADLINE:

MIDNIGHT March 1, 2023