www.riding-instructor.com
Official Publication of The American Riding Instructors Association
Summer 2021
The Wintec saddles you know and love...
JUST GOT BETTER! comfort d n a s le d sad rites! sted favou on your tru
Model Shown
WINTEC 500 ALL PURPOSE
Combining hard-wearing materials with best-in-class technology, the new range of Wintec saddles has something for every discipline, conformation and budget. Try a saddle today and put Wintec to the test… The saddle is pictured with the Wintec Changeable Stirrup Keeper in Blue for illustrative purposes only, available to purchase separately.
e h t n i o J ! n o i t u l o rev
Find your next Wintec saddle at wintec-saddles.com Share your story
@wintecsaddles
@wintec.saddles
ARIA Official Suppliers and Sponsors Summer 2021 Published by: American Riding Instructors Association P.O. Box 366 Alton, NH 03809-0366 Tel: 603-605-5275 E-mail: aria@riding-instructor.com Website: www.riding-instructor.com
These companies, whose commitment to quality reflects our own, are official suppliers and sponsors of the American Riding Instructors Association. We thank them for their support, which helps us to continue our work.
Director: William Watson aria@riding-instructor.com Manager of Corporate Sponsorship and Advertising: Donna Hartshorn Tel 407-927-3578; Donna@riding-instructor.com Art Director: Ferenc Rozumberski franzz@gmail.com
www.wintec-saddles.com ARIA’s Official Saddle Supplier
www.onekhelmets.com ARIA’s Official Helmet Supplier
www.cazenovia.edu/caz-equine ARIA Official Sponsor
www.horseinsurance.com ARIA’s Official Insurance Supplier
www.wellpride.com ARIA’s Official Fish Oil Supplier
UltraShield by Absorbine Official Fly Control Supplier
Member ARIA recognizes that equestrian headgear that does not meet the current ASTM standard is not safe, although certain equestrian activities pictured in this magazine may not adhere to these requirements. Riding Instructor is the Official Publication of the American Riding Instructors Association. For Advertising Rates & Data, please contact the publisher. The editor of Riding Instructor reserves the right to edit reasonably all copy submitted, and all contributions become the property of Riding Instructor. The Editor does not hold herself responsible for, nor does she necessarily agree with, the opinions expressed in Riding Instructor. Riding Instructor assumes no responsibility for loss or damage to unsolicited photographs or manuscripts. Reproductions without permission are strictly prohibited by copyright laws. While endeavoring to accept only reliable advertising, Riding Instructor will not be responsible to the public for advertisements, and the right to decline or discontinue any advertisement is reserved. ARICP Advisory Board Debi DeTurk Peloso Denny Emerson Julie I. Fershtman, Esq. Charlotte Brailey Kneeland * Founder Gayle Lampe Sarah Sliva, MD Linda Tellington-Jones
To learn the benefits of becoming an ARIA Official Supplier or Sponsor, please contact ARIA at 603-605-5275 or aria@riding-instructor.com
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
3
5 A Tribute to our Mounted Patrol Training
Officers Alan John Jacksonville, Florida
Rick Pelicano Frederick, Maryland
Ric Sutton Chesapeake, Virginia
Sue Zaybal Sandy, Utah
11 Sponsor Spotlight 14 Sport psychology
Ten Steps for Instilling Confidence in Riders While Saving Your Sanity Laura King CHt, NLP, Life & Performance Coach
16 Sport psychology
The Adaptable Equestrian Trainer Laura King CHt, NLP, Life & Performance Coach
18 Legal focus
When the Stable or Professional Parts Company with Their Clients Julie I. Fershtman, Attorney at Law
20 Business matters
Hire Slow, Fire Fast 10 tips For Successful Interviewing By Doug Emerson
22 Business matters
Selling Your Business By Carol Gordon, CPA
23 Business matters
Imitation is Not Always a Form of Flattery – The Professional Ethics of Using Other People’s Work By Peggy S. Brown
26 Steady Up There, Little Monkey By Didi Arias 28 When Quitting Seems Fitting By Lydia Fairchok 32 What’s new 34 Influenced Behavior By Christine Olsen
Official Publication of The American Riding Instructors Association
35 Cameo’s Cauldron
YOU ARE UNIQUE By Cameo Miller
started to use them in the early 1990's. Now they are everywhere and being used in civilian obstacle challenges. The key is to observe something and have the ability to see it as a challenge instead of an obstacle. The other thing that I would like to express so that people understand what we do is we have to adapt to what we have available. That sounds obvious, but I have trained in Virginia, Wyoming, Utah, Florida, California, Montana and Idaho. I have a lesson plan for basic mounted patrol and another for advanced. Of course, everyone asks for the advanced course. The skills are very similar between the basic and advanced, the difference is that the expectation for success and the distractions introduced are more complex. Every class ends up with its own personality and the location, equipment and skill levels dictate how the class will go.
A Tribute to our Mounted Patrol Training Officers Some of ARIA’s Level III Mounted Patrol Officers tell us about their work.
Alan John Jacksonville, Florida
In Riverton, Wyoming we had the full support of all the emergency services, so we had the firetrucks with water cannons shooting at us for crowd control. (It was almost 100 degrees and this was a good way to cool everyone down in the late afternoon.) In California we had a helicopter available, so everyone got to touch the skids of a hovering chopper. In Wyoming we have had field trips down to a local grade school to get the exposure of the masses of kids petting the horses. If we found a construction site along the way, we relished the additional exposure and the standard line is "We spare no
I have found most mounted instructors have built their skills from a variety of sources. As in leadership and general po-
What I have found from teaching across the
lice work, take the best from each source or
country is that there are many different tac-
discipline and use it where it fits for you. I
tics and protocols used regionally. In some
see some instructors rely heavily on English
states officers can patrol solo, while in oth-
or a dressage background, while others rely
ers they must be in two-officer teams. Some
on a western style. I have been fortunate to
departments use mounted patrol actively to
learn from Ray Hunt and take courses em-
manage crowds and conduct police work,
bedded with the RCMP. I have taken English
others use them as a community policing
dressage lessons and ridden western cutting
tool and officers are relegated to public rela-
horses. I am known to be incredibly unorth-
tions duties. There is no "one right answer",
odox and think out of the box. As far as I
as in everything we do, we have to adapt to
know, I was the first person to use air danc-
the community we serve.
ers as a mounted patrol distraction when I
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
5
Feature foot soldiers gave multiple orders over the loud speaker. Even more amazing was the aftermath of this event. It made the front page of the paper (of course) and then the letters to the editor came in about how many people were injured and how reckless it was for the police to bring the horses into a situation like that without training, etc. This is where all our years of work and community policing came in to pay us back. We have a robust Citizen's Mounted Unit - 30-45 citizens who volunteer their time to help patrol special events and downtown in the summer. One expense on your training" as if we planned
own mace and the crowd was getting worse.
of those individuals worked at the hospi-
it. In Sheridan, Wyoming we found a train
An officer asked if the horses were still
tal. They reported zero cases being taken
right along our path and several challenging
available. We drove to within two blocks of
to or reported to the emergency room (in
bridges to navigate.
the party - now riot - and rode in. We de-
an unsolicited letter to the editor). The best
veloped a hasty plan with the supervisor to
letter came from the most unlikely source.
All mounted patrol relates back to good
clear the crowd and give them a direction
A former CMU candidate who was a great
horsemanship. If I can teach anyone good
to disperse. Three officers on horseback
volunteer, but whose horse was not suit-
horsemanship and the trust between horse
rode in and cleared about 150 people in the
able, wrote a letter to the editor that had the
and rider is high, then they probably will not
front yard and porch of a small house in
most profound effect. She reported that the
have many problems when they encounter
about 90 seconds. There were people hang-
officers did train for such events and occur-
obstacles or new things. The rest of a class
ing off the porch, music was blaring, and
rences and in fact she had participated in the
is dedicated to exposing the pair to increas-
the crowd had refused to disperse after the
training. She was not on the unit because
ingly more difficult stimuli so that they can
her horse failed to demonstrate the type of
practice their basic horsemanship skills
demeanor necessary for success in those sit-
in control. I ride and train western, so my
uations and did not pass the end of course
words and phrases match my style. The rider must keep the horse between their hands and their feet. If the horse starts to react to a stimuli in one direction, then he needs to be refocused to the task of being straight and centered. The difference between a police horse and a bicycle is that the horse has a heart and he will make up the difference for you if you have shown him that you care. A horse does not care how much you know until he knows how much you care. A bicycle is just there. My most unforgettable experience was after a 4th of July fireworks display. We worked through the display and were preparing to go home after midnight. As we
The difference between a police horse and a bicycle is that the horse has a heart and he will make up the difference for you if you have shown him that you care. A horse does not care how much you know until he knows how much you care. A bicycle is just there.
test. She was a prominent local citizen and horse person. After that letter was printed, not another word was said and no complaint was ever filed against the officers or the situation. Mounted patrol enrollment increased significantly since then and the civilian unit is still strong after 26 years of service. In closing, our most important goal in mounted enforcement training is to keep the units and the legacy of mounted police work alive. Everywhere there are budget cuts. Everywhere technology has taken a leap forward and the uneducated are skeptical of the value of the mounted unit. I have given hundreds of hours and still consult with interested civilians, instructors and
loaded the horses in trailers to go home,
administrators to advocate for mounted
a call came about an out-of-control party
units nationwide.
where an officer had been sprayed with his
6
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
What are the requirements to be a mounted officer? So first and foremost a person must want to be a police officer. Once hired, the officer has to complete and graduate; then the officer has to complete field training, which is at least another 3 months. Once that is over the officer is assigned to a patrol squad, working in a car. Mounted Patrol is a specialty unit. Officers wanting to go there have to wait for a vacancy and then apply for the position. Once accepted, the officer has to complete the basic mounted class, which is ten weeks plus two additional weeks in field training. Officers learn all aspects of horsemanship including: first aid; recognizing and treating medical issues; horse transport/driving truck and trailer; stable duties; and of course riding and cleaning tack. No prior horse experience is necessary. Once they graduate from mounted training, they are assigned a horse suitable to them. That
Rick Pelicano Frederick, Maryland
the pre-crime unit is trying to figure a loca-
means the new officers get assigned a more
tion of a murder when the vision of mounted
veteran, experienced horse.
police near a park was revealed. Hard to believe it took two days to do that one scene.
Officers who want to be a mounted officer have to understand that they might not work
You asked my best and worst day on the job - Any day on a horse is a best day. Being a
The worst day was always the day we had
a regular schedule. Assignments and details
training officer, my best days were always
to put a horse down. Being on the job for
are often at odd times and often require an
teaching new riders and best of that was
36 years, it never was good and one time
early start or working late in the evening.
graduation day. It was always a best day to
is too many times, anywhere from severe
Weekends off are not a given either. Even
see new officers graduate and carry on the
colic to a broken leg. One day was partic-
though we don't work in extreme weather, we
tradition. It made me proud to see that I was
ularly bad. We just picked up a new horse
do work in hot or cold times of the year. Some
able to bring them along.
that we brought in on trial. When we bring
officers simply prefer the comfort of having
a new horse in we always turn him out with
a heated and air-conditioned patrol car. The
Other best days were the opportunity to do
a “babysitter” horse in a small paddock.
job is not for everyone. Cleaning stalls and
other things outside normal patrol. Training
We choose our veteran horse that gets
fixing fence lines is not for everyone.
with other agencies was always on the top of
along well with others. After turnout and
the list. We often supported US Park Police
things seemed to be fine, I went on about
for large demonstrations in Washington,
my business and then came back about
D.C. as well as Presidential Inaugurations. I
an hour later to check on him. He was on
What do you wish the general public understood better about you and/or your horse?
was also fortunate to be in the mounted unit
three legs, and it looked bad. The vet came
I will answer this for the general public who
when we were asked to provide mounted
immediately. The poor thing had a spiral
are not horse savvy. I've seen and heard all
security at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta
fracture. He wasn't on the job for 2 hours.
kinds of preconceived notions that simply
Georgia. That was an unforgettable experi-
Fortunately the owners who donated him
are not accurate. So here is one particularly
ence. However, dealing with the Georgia clay
understood what happens with horses.
crazy incident. I was with my horse at a
on our gray horses was no fun. We also got
large street festival. I was dismounted and
a call to send two mounted officers to play
Retiring a horse was also a bittersweet day.
talking with a group of people when one
a small role in the movie Minority Report.
You hate to see them leave but are happy to
lady asked me why my horse was standing
There is a scene about 15 minutes in where
find them a good home.
on one rear leg with the other relaxed. You
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
7
Feature all know how they stand like that…humans do the same thing. So I pointed out that we humans stand like that too, and the horse was just standing relaxed. That was not acceptable to her however, she asserted that the horse was lame and I should not have him on patrol. So the next day, animal control shows up at the barn because the lady filed a cruelty complaint on me. Fortunately the animal control officer knew it was bogus but had to respond anyway. So please understand our horses are well cared for. For my department, we have plenty of turnout, plenty of hay and a regular schedule with our vet. We don't patrol in extreme weather, and we don't put lame horses on patrol. Our vet is always available for emergencies. Guess what…horses sleep lying down! This was a recurring incident. Our turnout pas-
trailers were parked in the open, we would
a day especially if we have new ones in for
leave two officers with the trailers to dis-
training.
courage shenanigans by the ne’er-do-wells. Mounted officers also have to fulfill the
tures are next to a roadway that has heavy
What’s a typical day at work like?
rush hour traffic. So folks often sit in their
Officers have to report to the barn to start
That means annual in-service training and
cars waiting at the light and gazing at our
their day. Whereas our patrol officers (in
firearms training. The mounted unit also
horses. Well, we all know horses lie down, es-
patrol cars) could simply start their day by
has annual in-service training as well as pe-
pecially on a nice spring day in the warm sun-
being in their beat. Depending on the day
riodic training for preparing for a particular
shine. So we would have panicked citizens
the officer may have a specific assignment,
detail or assignment. In addition to train-
coming to the barn to report a dead horse or
sometimes specific patrol areas, or simply
ing requirements, officers have regularly
two. It was humorous but often tedious when
patrol our areas. Mounted officers did not
assigned court dates as well as other court
an officer would have to go out and prove to
have geographic beats. A bike trail may
dates that come up.
the citizen that nothing was wrong.
pass through numerous beats. So areas for
same requirements as any other officer.
mounted were: developed and undevel-
We also have other details and assignments.
So now for our general horse people: We
oped trails; regional parks; downtown city
One of our duties is crowd control. That has
transport our horses tacked, except the bri-
patrol; or specific problem areas known as
required officers to be at the barn as early
dle. That concept is foreign to many horse
directed patrol. We have full-time barn staff
as 3 AM, or working an evening detail they
folks. But we are in and out of the trailer all
who usually would have the officer’s horse
may not return to the barn until 3 AM. Any
day. There is nothing unsafe about it as long
tacked and ready to go. In the event they
anticipated long detail requires bringing
as the girth is reasonably snug. We also put
weren't available, the officer would prepare
adequate feed, hay and water.
the bridle on when we get to our patrol area,
his/her own horse. Then hook up the trailer,
while the horse is on the trailer. That way
load and transport to their assigned area.
when he backs off the trailer, he's ready to
Officers often go to multiple areas during
What are some memorable experiences?
go. For some horses, trying to put a bridle
the day so police horses are on and off the
Mounted policing offers many opportunities
on outside the trailer might lead to a loose
trailer all day. Our horses all self-load! That
that patrol officers are missing. Being used
horse. During one crowd control operation
eliminates the necessity for a lone officer
for crowd control we have had many oppor-
in Washington, D.C. we were assigned to be
walking the horse on the trailer and risking
tunities to interact with other units. We reg-
a reactionary unit and respond to any prob-
the horse backing out after the officer ex-
ularly worked large details in Washington
lem areas quickly. That required the horse
its the trailer. At the end of the day, officers
with mutual aid agreements with US Park
to be fully tacked including bridles and
come back to the barn about an hour before
Police and Metropolitan D.C. as well as with
face shields. When we responded we could
shift ends to care for their horse, clean the
other surrounding jurisdictions. In 1996 we
quickly get unloaded and respond immedi-
trailer, and clean their tack. For training
were requested to provide mounted security
ately. For this type of incident or anywhere
officers, we might be riding several horses
for the Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia.
8
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
odor created by my body wrapped in Kevlar and the sweat dripping from under my helmet. Our horses stood three-legged in the roadway, already too worn out from the evening’s activities to be concerned with
The job of a Mounted Cop or Patrol Horse isn’t all parades and smiles. It is often quite dangerous.
their surroundings. Forrest, Joel’s horse, was a veteran mount and was usually unflappable. Jusino, my mount, only had a year on the street but he was steady and reliable. Both had been tested repeatedly already that night and they were done. I had just dismounted to clean up after Jusino when the dispatcher put out a call for a large fight in the 300 block of 18th Street. Joel answered that we were responding. I swung into the saddle and collected my stirrup as we trotted toward
Ric Sutton
the fight. Immediately, the dispatcher an-
other shooting just two blocks away. We
Chesapeake, Virginia
nounced a possible subject brandishing a
worked back and forth across the street and
firearm at the crowd on the Boardwalk at
sidewalks for the next hour to clear enough
17th Street. Boot-to-boot as we had prac-
space for medics and crime scene person-
It can be dangerous. Mid-April on the
ticed, we turned and headed for the gun
nel to do their jobs.
Virginia Beach resort strip - the heat was
case. As we trotted across Atlantic Avenue,
stifling; there was no wind in the canyon
three rapid gunshots sounded from about
During the remainder of that shift we rode
created by the high rise hotels and build-
15 yards behind us. The crowd screamed
to two more active shootings and twelve
ings on Atlantic Avenue. It was “College
and people started running in every direc-
more fights. Our horses were struck by
Beach Weekend” and the crowds were
tion. The training effort that we had put
people and thrown objects during these
huge, rambunctious, and aggressive. We
into our horses paid off when they both
events. The job of a Mounted Cop or Patrol
had already assisted with several fights and
turned and headed toward the sound of
Horse isn’t all parades and smiles. It is of-
arrests by ground forces and had joined the
the gunshots. We crossed the street and
ten quite dangerous.
rest of the ten rider unit to break up a men-
found the security guard from an ice cream
acing and violent crowd on the Boardwalk.
shop had been shot in the leg. The shooter
The shift was still young.
had disappeared into the crowd. Joel dismounted, grabbed his first aid kit, started
Sue Zaybal
My partner Joel and I had been in the sad-
medical treatment including putting a
dle for almost five straight hours. Our only
tourniquet on the victim, and called for an
breaks had come when we had to dismount
ambulance. I took Forrest’s reins and cre-
to clean up after our horses. The crowds
ated a barrier with the two horses so that
Once upon a time, I had a horseman’s dream
were shoulder to shoulder from curb to
Joel would have a safe place to work. As
job. In 1981, in a twist of being in the right
wall along the sidewalks and spilled over
soon as enough ground officers arrived to
place at the right time, I was offered the job
onto the street. We were posted up in the
manage the crime scene Joel remounted
of caring for the Atlanta Mounted Police
100 block of 18th Street with our backs to
and we headed to Atlantic Avenue to keep
horses & stables. Hard work & dedication
the Boardwalk in the vain hope of an ocean
the crowds back.
commenced. Fast forward to 1986 when
breeze to cool us and our sweaty mounts.
Sandy, Utah
the training officer resigned. The unit was
The aroma of horse sweat mingled with
As we rounded the corner, we were met by
left without a “volunteer”. So I raised my
the car exhaust, stale beer and marijuana
a couple thousand screaming and yelling
hand & said “I’ve taught lessons in the
smoke provided some respite from the
people that were running away from an-
past.” I became the new trainer. I was still
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
9
Feature able to bring a horse from Atlanta, but never to worry. It’s always a real learning experience riding horses you’ve never ridden before, especially in an environment like Mardi Gras! I always learned so much from the group of instructors who led that school. One year, the Sergeant of the unit asked me if I would like to be one of the instructors. What an honor! Teaming up with some of the other previous instructors, we always tried to offer the best, reallife learning environment for anywhere from 30-60 riders & horses. There was no other mounted school like it in the country. I loved being able to work with the officers & civilian patrol riders who had come to participate. It was always satisfying to help someone who was having a specific riding issue or who needed to learn something no one had ever taught them to do before. I loved it. Due to budget constraints in the early 2000’s, mounted policing went away for a few years in Atlanta. I had to give up my dream job, but Mobile continued to ask me to help instruct every spring. I did it Sue Zaybal on a young horse leading a column of two’s with Sgt. Eddie Carr of Mobile Mounted Police. Mardi Gras, c. 2009.
for several more years, always looking forward to working with new or returning students. And I kept catch-riding, going downtown at night for crowd control on various horses that were offered to me.
a civilian employee and would continue to be so throughout my
The teaching & learning always went together, and it was some of
tenure with APD. I saw officers & horses come & go; some were
the most fun I’ve ever had on horseback.
really good at this line of work, and some washed out. And when you teach, you also learn. In 1991, after a horsewoman friend & mentor of mine told me about ARIA Certification, I decided to attempt the Mounted Patrol L2, along with Hunt Seat L2 exams. In those days, there was an ARICP seminar in the early fall in Cherry Hill, NJ, and part of it involved test-taking for those wishing to challenge the exams. I studied hard, I even got back into taking lessons, to help put me in the position of a student again. It was challenging, but a few weeks later, I got the great news that I passed both exams and was now a certified instructor! A few more years fast forward to 1994, and I decided to attempt the L3 Mounted Patrol exam. Again, studying and getting some pointers from contacts I’d made in the industry, I passed the L3! I had the privilege over the years of being able to attend several work. One of my favorites was the Mobile Mounted Police Mardi Gras School, held to coincide with Mardi Gras in Mobile, Alabama. The 8-day school was set up so that we all trained together with the horses at the Mobile facility during the day; then as each rider/horse team was ready, they were invited to go downtown for mounted crowd control during the parade that night. They were long hours, but the team camaraderie was our focal point, as we had to work together to watch the crowds. For several years, I was the student during the school. I always “catch-rode”, as I wasn’t
10
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
ructor.com www.riding-inst
training sessions and competitions exclusively for mounted patrol ion Official Publicatn Riding of The America Association Instructors
Spring 2021
Moving? Don’t miss a single issue… Phone or e-mail us with your new address. 603-605-5275 aria@riding-instructor.com
Sponsor Spotlight
Absorbine ARIA is pleased to announce that UltraShield by Absorbine is the new Official Fly Control Supplier. We look forward to learning more about their products and their suggestions for fly control! Absorbine® has been a leader in equine health care innovation since 1892 and is dedicated to making trusted, high-quality products that help enhance the lives of horses. Like many significant achievements, Absorbine® grew out of humble beginnings and through the tenacity of someone willing to question the status quo. In this case, it was a young woman in late 19th-century Massachusetts: Mary Ida Young. Through her knowledge as an herbalist, Mary Ida created a tincture of herbs and essential oils designed to increase blood flow and speed healing—without burning or blistering horses. This liniment was a revolutionary alternative to the caustic treatments of the time, and Mary Ida and her husband Wilbur started using it on their horses daily. Wilbur depended on their horses as a piano deliveryman, and he began selling the formula on his route – it became known as Absorbine® Veterinary Liniment and quickly gained popularity. Through the years, Absorbine® has built on this heritage of innovation and has become well-known for top-rated brands such as Absorbine® Veterinary Liniment, UltraShield® fly control, ShowSheen® grooming, Hooflex® hoof care, and the revolutionary new Silver Honey® wound care products. www.absorbine.com
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
11
Sponsor Spotlight
Wintec Saddles Are your students looking for more stability and security in their saddle? The all-new Wintec 2000 All Purpose saddle is now better than ever, and still designed to last! • Always comfortable: super-soft and grippy seat that always
Wellpride
feels like home, and complete adjustability for their horse. • Always durable: high-quality, weatherproof materials mean it can outlast even the toughest of seasons, and most care-free
We would like to welcome back Wellpride/Omega3 Innovations as the Official Fish Oil Supplier of ARIA!
riders! • Always easy-care: your students can train in any weather and simply wipe or even hose off the mud when they are finished!
At Wellpride, we focus on making the best equine fish oil so that you and your horse get results. In contrast to many omega-3
• Always the owner’s favorite: Wintec saddles honor a very generous warranty through all their stockists world-wide.
supplements for horses, Wellpride contains high levels of EPA and DHA (which have potent anti-inflammatory benefits). And, because
ARIA is pleased to select Wintec Saddles as the returning Official
we work to preserve freshness during production and handling, our
Saddle Supplier of the American Riding Instructors Association.
Wellpride has a great taste and smell that even picky eaters love! Encourage your students to check out the Wintec 2000 All Purpose Founded in 2003, Wellpride has been used by horses competing at Devon, Rolex/Land Rover Kentucky, Breeder’s Cup, the Pan American Games, World Equestrian Games and the Olympics. Wellpride has also been a favorite with older horses and rescue horses needing extra care for their hooves, joints and digestive health. Whether you’re a competitive horseperson, a pleasure rider, or someone who runs a sanctuary, choose Wellpride -- America’s #1 Fresh Fish Oil for Horses. www.wellpride.com
12
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
and find their next saddle at wintec-saddles.com
American Riding Instructor Certification Program
QUICK TEST CENTER APPLICATION P L E A S E P R I N T C L E A R LY A N D F I L L I N A L L B L A N K S
Miss Ms. Mrs. Mr. First name:
Middle initial:
Address:
City:
Telephone (days):
(evenings):
E-mail:
Birth date:
State:
Select your Level Circle one of the following. You do not need to start at Level I if you wish to start at a higher level and have the necessary age & teaching experience for that level. Level I Instructor in Training (18 years old minimum, no teaching experience required).
Last name: Zip: Fax: Age:
Number of years teaching riding:
Apply early! Space is limited! Test for first time in one or two specialties, at Level 1 or 2: $595. Add $350. per specialty beyond the first two. Add $200. per specialty to test at Level 3.
Level II
Re-testing (after first time): $350. Private testing: Add $250. Change of Test Center date: $250. Payments are non-refundable.
Choose your own test date!
Instructor of Beginner through Intermediate (21 years old minimum, 3 years of teaching experience required).
For private or group testing, contact aria@riding-instructor.com
Level III Instructor of Beginner through Advanced (25 years old minimum, 6 years of teaching experience required).
Earning your ARIA Certification is an important step in your career Register online at www.riding-instructor.com
Select your Specialty Check one or two of the following. There is an additional fee of $350 per specialty to test in more than two. Distance Riding: Endurance & Competitive Dressage
Recreational Riding Reining Riding to Hounds Saddle Seat
Driving
Please note
Advance Registration Required
1. Please register at least 30 days in advance in order to have Call (603) 605-5275, e-mail aria@riding-instructor.com or visit sufficient time to receive your acceptance package and prepare. www.riding-instructor.com to register. 2. Testing at your location may be arranged for six or more Note: Membership in the ARICP requires that you honor and instructors. uphold the integrity of your certification.
Show Jumping
Eventing
Payment Information
Side-Saddle
Hunt Seat Hunt Seat on the flat (no jumping) Mounted Patrol Training Officer
Stable Management Western Dressage
Total amount submitted
Western Equitation / Pleasure
Credit card number:
Select Test Center date
Your signature:
Payment method:
Master Card
Visa
Discover
Exp. date:
AmEx
CVV:
Date:
Payment for full amount must accompany application. Phone-in registrations accepted with credit card payment. Date: Location:
Register online at www.riding-instructor.com Please contact ARIA at
aria@riding-instructor.com for latest list of test centers.
ARICP—PO Box: 366 Alton, NH 03809 Tel 603-605-5275 • e-mail aria@riding-instructor.com • Web www.riding-instructor.com
Check
Sport psychology
Ten Steps for Instilling Confidence in Riders While Saving Your Sanity Laura King CHt, NLP, Life & Performance Coach The life of a horse (and rider) trainer is your
frustration, you lash out with harsh words
It’s time to remember why you do what
dream come true. It’s what you’ve always
during a lesson. But, with your words, you
you do. It’s time to have compassion and
wanted. But some days, the reality of the
hurt the people who have put their trust
to be adaptable to every student. It’s time
life you’ve chosen is tough. A horse doesn’t
in you to help them realize their dreams.
to be aware that your words can undermine
want to change leads, another one kicked
Scars from cruel words spoken or even
every lesson you have taught your student.
out the boards in her stall, you’re running
kind words withheld hide in the unseen
It’s time to manage each student’s learning
low on hay (again!) and teaching your
places of the heart. Your client also faces
methods and create a solution for each
students is a lesson for YOU in patience.
frustration and hides unseen scars from
horse and rider combination.
life, loss, divorce, broken promises or an Why don’t they do what you have told them
aging body. They harbor scars from being
In my book, “The Power to Win,” I include
to do over and over again? It’s so simple. In
loved only for what they can do.
a chapter titled “Your Expectations: From
14
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
Mistakes to Peak Performance.” In it, I
good enough. Don’t let them wallow in
As the trainer, you have the responsibility
outline steps you can take and ideas for
negative self-talk or, for that matter,
to instill confidence in your riders. Try to
helping your students to excel as you want
negative talk from you. Now is not the
remember that they seek your expertise
them to do.
time to focus on past mistakes.
and they are not pros – they are amateurs with a dream. Help them fulfill that dream
Everyone makes mistakes but it’s crucial to
• Kindly
point
out
self-sabotaging
and your dream to be the trainer with
release the past. Has beating yourself up
patterns. Do you have a rider who looks
ever made you feel better? Has it ever made
down all the time or always rides with
you or your students ride better? If you
her reins too long? Improper muscle
Need help addressing your challenges or
answered no, this article is for you. Check
memory can create improper patterns.
achieving your goals? Sessions available
out the 10 steps below to get you both on a
Bad habits are difficult to change; the
in-person, via Zoom, or by phone.
positive track toward achieving their peak
process involves consciously thinking
performance in the saddle and your peak
about how you are moving and feeling.
performance as an effective trainer.
You have the practiced, keen eye as the
successful students AND a kind heart.
trainer; help them understand that their • Start with not condemning yourself for mistakes made in the past. • If you’ve been unkind to someone,
learned muscle memory needs a tweak.
Products: www.summitpress.net
I suggest your students practice a new
Sessions: www.summithypnosis.com
skill for 21 days. Anything less will not
email: SummitHypnosis@gmail.com
result in a true learning experience.
phone: 561-841-7603
apologize. If you failed to fulfill the promise you made to your student, take steps to fulfill that promise.
• Focus on their success. Help them remember things they do well and suggest they visualize those positive
• Make sure your students are focused on
experiences. What you think about is
achieving positive results. Rephrase your
what you become. Remind them how far
language. If you tell your student to quit
they have come and that each learning
missing the lead or stopping at a fence,
experience builds their knowledge.
then that’s what they focus on. Instead, explain the steps they need to change the
• Have them repeat positive affirmations
lead or sail confidently over the fence.
aloud. I like this one: I am grateful and
Help them ride with confidence. We all
thankful for every experience of the past,
know horses pick up on nervousness
and for everything connected with those
and your positive words will help your
experiences. I find it easy to let go of my
students calm down, focus and hear your
fears. I forgive myself for every mistake
words.
I have ever made. Life goes on and so do I. I am stronger than anything life can
• Help them understand that stressing
offer.
about what others think of them or worrying about things over which they
• Suggest they mentally rehearse the test
have no control like the weather, an early
or the course. Use all the senses. Does the
morning ride time, someone walking
saddle creak? Hear the sound of a clear
their horse too near the fence or a dog
three-beat canter. Imagine the smell of
that may run into the middle of the ring
the fly spray or the horse’s mane.
does nothing to help the situation. • Have them imagine a rider they admire. • Help them focus on the present. If they
Do Laura Graves or Beezie Madden or
obsess on the jump with the liverpool
Isabell Werth instill awe? By imagining the
or the half-pass to the left later in
person whom you want to emulate, you
the pattern, they aren’t riding every
have a vision of the performance you desire
stride. Help them know that they are
and you model that excellence.
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
15
Sport psychology
The Adaptable Equestrian Trainer Laura King CHt, NLP, Life & Performance Coach My how the world has changed. Whatever
You didn’t think about it because it had to
• You saw an opportunity to create some-
your experience since the arrival of Covid
change. What else can you adapt to without
thing new or to pivot in a different direction.
19, the world has changed and we have all
even noticing?
• Your capacity for adaptability is what sep-
changed with it. You see, you are Adaptable. We all learned together, as a global human-
Adaptability is Crucial to Your Success Last year, you adapted to: 1) A once-in-a-lifetime, seismic shift in the world.
Change happens in every moment. Being
2) Your thinking and behavior chang-
adaptable to change is crucial to your suc-
ing, at least temporarily and maybe
cess as an equestrian trainer.
permanently. 3) An altered sense of timing and travel as
Was your barn closed for a period of time?
nary moments or extraordinary times. You just need the powerful tool of adaptability to
habits. Have you realized how easy it is to change when change is required?
Meeting a moment with openness and creativity is what leads to success during ordi-
ity, to wear masks, stand apart, wash our hands more often. We all changed our daily
arates you from the others.
everyone’s schedule shifted.
Did you completely redo your schedule and
keep you open to change.
Life Was Always Uncertain People talk about uncertainty these days as if it’s new—as if it came on the scene with the novel coronavirus. The reality is that life has always been uncertain. Uncertainty is
stay in one location? Things you adapted to
And Bonus points for you when:
quickly included tightened barn protocol,
• You found ways to continue to move for-
redoing your scheduling, no shows. Maybe
ward with what needed to get done.
We never can say what the day will bring, so
you learned to do remote training, it all just
• You realized you needed to do something
we need to be prepared for anything. We’ve
happened.
differently.
already established that you have some de-
16
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
the opportunity for greatness.
gree of adaptability, so let’s continue your
negative self-talk. What you say to yourself
Once you have achieved relief again, you can
preparation for anything-can-happen by
matters. What you think in the privacy of
revisit the upset and breathe through it.
building on your adaptability tool.
your own mind matters too. You may need to do this several times de-
Pendulation
When you need to change, try this….
pending on how focused you are and the re-
Pendulation is something you can do at any
Pendulation
ality of the upset.
thing from minor disappointment to phys-
Find a quiet place and sit in a comfortable
Breathe.
ical pain. It’s a practice that reminds you of
position with your eyes closed.
time to increase our capacity to handle every-
Now use your inner voice to bring yourself
your inner resources and uses them to help decrease your own suffering. It’s a resilience
Choose a neutral point in your experience—
back to your surroundings with relaxation,
practice and resilience is part of adaptability.
maybe your hands or your breath - and focus
and focus on being your personal best.
on it. We call this your anchor point. Keep The practice of pendulation reminds you
your attention on it.
That’s pendulation. Moving back and forth, from discomfort to calm, until the ebb and
that whatever is uncomfortable in any given Now review your body to locate any tension
flow is integrated into a better calm. A better
or discomfort. Notice it. Release it.
outcome.
fortable in this given moment is not my en-
Breathe.
We all have a relationship to change. Maybe
tire experience.
Return to your anchor point.
yours needs . . . changing. If discomfort arises
Feel your anchor point.
at the mere thought of change, there’s some-
moment is not your entire experience. Please read out loud – Whatever is uncom-
thing you can do about that — Pendulation.
Every experience consists of multiples of how you see, hear, taste, smell, feel and
When something disruptive or upsetting oc-
think. When your focus is drawn to one
curs, or you become anxious or worried, or
Everything changes, but not everything
thing only, everything shifts.
you feel pain or discomfort, go to your an-
changes at once. There’s always something
chor point.
neutral in your experience to remind you of your stability and your inner strength to be
Yes, you may have a headache and the program ahead is challenging. Which should
Focus your attention on your anchor point.
ing program?
adaptable. Adaptability is a wonderful tool to be the best trainer – use it daily.
you focus on? The headache? The challengFocusing on the anchor point, in this moment, ignites your ability to decrease your
Need help addressing your challenges or
What you give attention is what gets at-
own suffering by intentionally moving away
achieving your goals? Sessions available
tention. I would suggest that you forget the
from it.
in-person, via Zoom, or by phone.
gram with the thought that you will do your
Here’s the pendulation part.
Products: www.summitpress.net
personal best today, in this moment.
You are focused on your anchor point. When
Sessions: www.summithypnosis.com
headache and focus on the challenging pro-
you feel relief, take your attention to what-
email: SummitHypnosis@gmail.com
Any part of your experience, from sound to
ever upset you--the physical, emotional or
phone: 561-841-7603
thoughts to sensations of your body, is sim-
mental discomfort.
ply one part of your experience. We tend to not see it that way. Instead, we identify with
See if you can sit with it for a bit. Perhaps
whatever the negative is by saying things
remember the upset in slow motion. See if
like: “I have a terrible headache,” or “It is too
you can stay in the calm while you revisit the
challenging.”
wound.
Self-talk often paints a bleak picture. You
If it continues to upset you or cause you dis-
can shift that talk by remembering your per-
comfort, move your attention back to your
sonal best. Relaxing and breathing into the
anchor point.
moment. There are many positive parts to the experience that you can use to shift that
Breathe.
About the author: Laura King is the Director and Founder of Summit Hypnosis and Wellness and is a Certified Hypnotist, NLP Practitioner, Life Coach, and Sports Performance Coach. Laura has written and published several books and workbooks, including ”Power To Win” for equestrians and “Perfect Enough,” a guide to help you evaluate your perceptions and experiences around vital areas of your life.
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
17
Legal focus
When the Stable or Professional Parts Company with Their Clients Julie I. Fershtman, Attorney at Law www.equinelaw.net Laws Impacting Termination of the Arrangement
Stables and equine professionals know it is
to leave immediately and want refunds of
inevitable – clients move on or lose inter-
overpaid fees. Stables and trainers want
est in horses, and the business relationship
advance notice to fill the empty stall, and
terminates. Often, but not always, these
they want all debts settled before the horse
Stablemen’s Lien Laws
relationships end on excellent terms. Over
leaves the stable.
Stablemen’s Lien Laws (sometimes called
the years, disputes and lawsuits have oc-
“Agister’s Lien Laws”) are found within most
curred between horse owners and equine
This article addresses some of these dis-
states. These laws address the situation of a
professionals involving termination of the
putes and offers suggestions for avoiding
stable’s rights, including the right to sell off
relationship. Horse owners want the right
them.
a horse, when boarding and certain related
18
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
fees have not been paid. This author has
Disputes have occurred when boarders and
stables and trainers send monthly invoices
written in the past about these laws. Some
training clients seek to remove their horses
that itemize all fees and charges incurred
allow stables to retain possession of a horse
before accounts with the stable have been
within the prior month, while others require
when board fees are past due. For example,
settled. These disputes can find their way
payment of the same monthly sum. Horse
Michigan Compiled Laws Section 570.185,
in court, when a judge is asked to determine
owners who prefer itemized billing can learn
states in part:
whether the stable’s charges are legally justi-
about the stable’s billing arrangements and
fied and whether the horse can be removed.
practices before the contract is signed.
Whenever any person shall deliver to any ...
All cases differ based on the facts and the ap-
person any horse ... to be kept or cared for,
plicable state law.
such ... person shall have a lien thereon for
• Attorney fee clause. Boarding or training contracts can also address whether one
the just value of ... the keeping and care of
Maximum Interest Rates
such animals, and may retain possession of
Stables sometimes try to collect interest on
the same until such charges are paid.
unpaid balances. Equine industry contracts
As another example, Nevada Statutes, title 9, Chapter 108.540, states, in part:
party pays the other’s attorney fees if a legal dispute arises.
have been known to apply illegally high
This article does not constitute legal advice.
rates of interest.
When questions arise based on specific situations, direct them to a knowledgeable attorney.
Notice and Refund Disputes
Any person furnishing feed, pasture or oth-
Disputes have involved the issue of how
erwise boarding any animal or animals, at
much advance notice either party – owner
the request or with the consent of the owner
and stable – must give the other before the
or his representative, has a lien upon the
business arrangement can end. Disputes
animal or animals, and may retain posses-
have also occurred when the horse owner,
sion thereof until the sum due for the feed,
after leaving the stable, wants a refund of
pasture or board has been paid.
fees. Detailed contracts can help avoid disputes or narrow them considerably.
Based on laws like these, the stable or equine professional might be legally justified in
Risk Management
keeping possession of boarded horses until
Here are a few ideas to control liability risks
they have been fully paid. (Keep in mind that
and limit disputes:
not all state laws give stables these rights.) • Address Termination in the Contract. Boarding and training contracts can include clauses on termination, such as how much notice each party must give the other. • Payment Details. Boarding and training contracts can address whether refunds are allowed and payment obligations, such as when board payments are due. • Lawful Interest Rate. Stables that seek to charge interest on unpaid balances can make sure their contracts provide a lawful rate of interest. What qualifies as a legal interest rate varies from state to state. When in doubt, contracts can specify a rate of interest but add: “… or the highest rate allowed [to the stable] under applicable law.” Julie I. Fershtman, Attorney at Law
• Communication of balance owed.
Some
About the author: Julie Fershtman, one of the nation’s most experienced Equine Law practitioners, is a Shareholder with Foster Swift Collins & Smith, PC, in Michigan. She has successfully litigated equine cases in 18 jurisdictions nationwide and has tried cases in 4 states. She is listed in The Best Lawyers in America and received the American Bar Association (ABA) “Excellence in the Advancement of Animal Law Award.” Her speaking engagements span 29 states. The ABA recently published her new 372-page book called “Equine Law & Horse Sense,” and it is available for purchase on Amazon and through the ABA. For more information, please visit www.equinelaw.net
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
19
Business matters
Hire Slow, Fire Fast 10 tips For Successful Interviewing By Doug Emerson If you are like many professional horsemen
on time, or late for the interview? Late
her to work, or you go through the day run-
and horsewomen, finding the right people
arrivals are often backed by good excuses:
ning on one less cylinder.
to help you in your business is one of your
“heavy traffic, difficulty finding the place,
biggest challenges. That’s partly because
drop children off, etc.” These are the same
4. Look for life in the eyes - good eye
candidates with horse experience are lim-
excuses you’ll probably hear every day from
contact, enthusiasm and energy. And while
ited, the rate of pay in the equine industry
the applicant once hired. If you expect
the following is not absolute, it’s worthy of
is low in comparison to other industries and
punctuality every day, lack of it at the in-
your careful observation. Research suggests
much of the work is unsupervised requiring
terview may be a deal breaker.
when a right handed person is remembering details, their eyes move up and to their left.
employees with good work habits. 2. Is the applicant dressed in a way that
When someone is making something up,
A resume, job application and a short inter-
is acceptable to you for your business im-
their eyes move to the right and down. It’s
view will tell you only part of the story
age? If unconventional body piercings-of-
usually opposite for left handers. There is
about an employee candidate.
fensive tattoos and sloppy general appear-
research available on the internet describ-
ance don’t bother you or your customers, no
ing eye movement and body language asso-
You know what I mean if you’ve ever had
need to worry. If they do, keep in mind you
ciated with lying and telling the truth that
your promising new hire show up for work
are probably seeing the best image of the
may be helpful to you.
on Monday morning and you find out that
candidate at the interview.
not only did the name on the job application
5. Bad mouthing and negative com-
and the face from the interview show up, a
ments - past employers, industry, rela-
whole person came along as well with a life
tionships, family, excessive bad luck. If you
history of good and bad habits.
hear too much of it in the candidate interview, you’ll be forever hearing it from the employee.
There are many books and articles written every year on the subject of hiring. Read
6. How many days off, benefits, what’s
one, or skim several to expand your skills.
the pay? If too many questions like these But, like most things, experience is the
come early in the interview, you know that
best teacher on the practice of hiring good
Johnny is all about his Paycheck.
people. 7. Lack of enthusiasm for horses and or Experience has taught me that the follow-
animals in general. Captain Obvious says
ing points are important to consider in your
this could be a problem.
interview process. They’re in random order 8. Messy car - no science or research backs
and may seem blatantly obvious. But, like a horse with her ears pinned flat on her neck,
3. Does the candidate have reliable
this up, but I got in the habit of walking a
the obvious is still worthy of your attention.
transportation? You know what happens
candidate to their vehicle to have a peek at
when a worker is a no-show. You either find
the car. Back seats littered with adult bever-
a way to pick up the employee to get him or
age cans and fast food wrappers, duct taped
1. Does the applicant show up early,
20
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
door handles and turn signal lenses and out
Your E-Mail Address
of date inspection stickers tell part of a story.
is important - for us and for you!
9. Poor listener - Even though you will
ARIA communicates primarily by e-mail with its members.
only be doing twenty percent of the talking
Please make sure we have a working e-mail address for you.
at an interview, the candidate should show signs of coherence and listening carefully to
If you’re not sure, write to us at aria@riding-instructor.com and let us know your current e-mail address.
what you say. After all, carrying out your di-
Thanks!
rections is a key job requirement. 10. Lacking good manners - you’ll never
Com p Onl lete Se y $2 t 95
be happy apologizing for your employee’s crude behavior and impolite habits. Even though it’s not you being rude, their reflection tarnishes your silver. There is no perfect employee. But, as a profitable business owner, screening for bad habits and attitudes makes good sense. Good attitude trumps work experience.
Revolutionary Coach to Rider Communication
Job candidates with good attitudes, but weak on work experience and skills can always be trained for business. Job candidates with bad attitudes, while having work experience and skills, can become difficult employees to manage. You will hear comments like: “This is the way I was taught to do this, in my last job we always did it another way, this isn’t my first rodeo” are examples of lack of ability to accept change. “But I can fix the bad habits of this employee” some think. Time will prove you can’t. Let the bad employees go quickly and find a job where they will be happy. Hire slow, fire fast is a business philosophy with merit!
About the author: Doug Emerson writes, speaks and consults about the business half of the horse business. Find out more at www.ProfitableHorseman.com
Communicate at whisper levels. Cyber headset fits comfortably under helmet.. Superior comfort for instructor.
www.eartec.com 800.399.5994
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
21
Business matters and determine a market value. The best resource for this would be a specialized real estate agent. The real estate agent can explain the best way to prep your property for potential buyers. 2. Find an attorney who specializes in business sales – preferably equine businesses. You have some choices to make as to whether you want to sell the property, the actual business or both. You may just want to dispose of the property but now want to work for someone else and take the customers with you. Or you may want
Selling Your Business
to continue to live on the property but sell
By Carol Gordon, CPA
so select an attorney who can help you
your customer list, horses and tack. There are plusses and minuses to either choice make the best decision.
It could have been your life’s work or something that you started a few years ago and decided that it wasn’t for you. It’s your business. And now, you’ve decided that it’s time to sell. However long you’ve owned it, it’s personal. It’s a reflection of you and your family.
3. Prepare to speak with potential buyers. Be aware that while you may cater to adult amateurs, someone else might be looking to buy a riding school for children. You may do a lot of the maintenance
Typical initial questions for a potential
The first and most important part of pre-
yourself, but the new owner may have to
seller are:
paring to sell your business is making sure
hire extra help. Be ready to discuss mul-
“What’s my business worth?”
that you understand your business inside
tiple options for various features of your
“How long does it take to sell a business?”
and out so that you can address a potential
business – e.g. that extra barn that now
My answer to both of those questions would
buyer’s question before they even ask it.
houses school horses could be used for
be “It depends.”
Not just understanding who the best lesson
DIY boarders, leased to another instruc-
horse for walk-trot students is and how to Preparing your business for sale in many
fix the frozen hydrant – but EVERY aspect
ways is similar to preparing a horse for sale.
of your business.
tor or offer quarantine services. 4. Take your business to market. Just like selling a horse, taking the time to
It takes time, thought and effort. You will be wearing multiple hats (nothing new there!).
The five key areas for your focus should be:
prepare for the sale is the most important part
You’re still the owner of the business but
1. Legal – contracts (boarding, lessons,
of the process. But taking the time will make
you also need to shift your mindset and start thinking like a potential buyer.
leasing, etc.) and risk management. 2. Finance/Accounting – financials and possible sources of funding.
What kind of questions would a buyer ask? “How will I fund the purchase of this business?” “What is my business plan?” “What are the potential target markets for this business?” “What are typical monthly expenses?”
3. Human Capital – employees, vendors,
security (credit card processing, etc.) 5. Sales and Marketing – target markets, advertising, customer retention, etc.
To be able to address these questions and ef-
understand each of these areas, it’s time to
fectively prepare your business for sale, you
implement a plan.
need to take time to develop and implement
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
cades working at this business every day. You owe it to yourself to finish the job right.
customers.
Once you feel confident that you know and
22
painful. You’ve spent years or perhaps de-
4. Information Technology – data and data
…… and so much more.
a comprehensive plan.
the rest of the process much simpler and less
1. Assess the salability of your business
About the author: Carol Gordon is a CPA with an MBA from Boston College and the owner of Carol Gordon, CPA, which provides consulting services to equine-based businesses. You can contact her at cgordoncpa@gmail.com. If you have any questions that you’d like covered here, please email her with your suggestions.
and, outside of breakthroughs in scientific discoveries and technology, are usually not all that new. This means that presenters, clinicians, website owners, riding instructors and trainers should be mindful and take care with what they teach and how they teach it. In this Facebook, internet world it is far too easy to click a few keys and copy other people’s work and then casually pass it off on your own website or as your own idea. Using someone else’s work, copying their ideas, their words, their illustrations, their exercises, and even in some cases their trademarked or copyrighted materials and passing it off as ones’ own work is stealing. I was recently involved with an individual who had produced a video, which they fully intended to sell for profit. The video
Imitation is Not Always a Form of Flattery
was presenting and teaching the princi-
– The Professional Ethics of Using Other People’s Work
own rather crude drawings and tracings
ples of an already well-known training and teaching technique. This person had the audacity to actually copy the illustrations from a book on the subject, making their and then trying to pass the information and ideas off as their own work. This was a young instructor, not very experienced, and shocked to discover that what they had
By Peggy S. Brown
done was illegal and a distinct copyright violation. They thought that redrawing the
Training and working with horses is an age-
horses, and if you think about it not much
illustrations and changing the words in the
old pursuit going back even before the ear-
information is really brand new.
book around a little bit made it ok to do. Wrong!
liest horse book, On Horsemanship, written by Xenophon in 355 BC. Xenophon taught
Most everything we are as horse peo-
about horse care, bitting and training and
ple comes from things we have learned,
How about an instructor who wants to be-
much of his advice and wisdom applies
whether from personal experience, from
come a clinician or presenter at horse ex-
to methods still in use today. Many other
instructors, perhaps clinics or expo pre-
pos? Perhaps they see someone else do a
books of horse instruction have been writ-
sentations, or from other educational me-
presentation that they really like and then
ten throughout history and even today the
dia we have experienced throughout our
they decide to copy it, with a few minor
publishers of horse books are still very ac-
lifetime. In the modern horse-world we
changes of course, and then perhaps they
tive. Nowadays besides books, we also have
often see trainers and coaches teaching
go on even further perhaps to use someone
videos, YouTube, the internet, educational
techniques that may be new and different
else’s ideas to write a book, shoot a video,
horse expos, horse clinics and more and
or techniques that may well have been
or to do expo presentations on their own.
more avenues that teach us about train-
copied from someone else’s work. Keep in
Where are this person’s professional ethics
ing, caring for, and riding horses; there’s
mind however that most things dealing
here? Transparent and weak individuals,
so much information available and yet the
with horses have been around, perhaps in
aren’t they?
horse world is a small world and horses are
slightly different ways, for a very long time
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
23
Business matters take a statement or illustration off the in-
About the author:
ternet, you must ask for written permission
Peggy Brown is a
from the author and/or the publisher!
Level IV Advanced Centered Riding and
A professional knows and understands that the correct thing to do is to give credit where credit is due and to take care not to take other people’s work and pass it off as ones’ own.
This is not as difficult as it seems - drop the
Driving
author or publisher a business type letter or
from Toledo, Ohio.
Clinician
email, inform them of what you would like
She is classified as
to use, why you would like to use it, where
an Expert Instructor
you would like to use it, and ask if you could
and Instructor Educator by the American
have their permission to use it. Then when
Riding Instructor Association and was hon-
you do use that photo, or exercise or illus-
ored to be named the 2005 Instructor of
tration make sure to write “used with the
the Year. Peggy generously shares her years
kind permission of ____”. This is the proper
of experience in competing, handling and
thing to do, the polite thing to do, and most
training horses and riders in all disciplines
importantly, the legal thing to do.
including hunter, jumper, dressage, western, games and speed events, combined
What about trademarked ideas or presenta-
and pleasure driving, and trail competition.
tions? Be careful here as usually someone
Peggy and her Haflinger mare Ulie were
who has taken the time to trademark some-
North American Champions in Versatility
thing may really decide to step up to defend
and also in Games Events; they were also
A professional knows and understands
their product or idea – and it may well be in
long listed for the United States Equestrian
that the correct thing to do is to give credit
court. And even if they don’t follow through
Team in Advanced Single Pony Combined
where credit is due and to take care not
and contact their attorney consider what
Driving. A firm believer in solid foundation
to take other people’s work and pass it off
you have done with this organization’s or
training for horse and rider, Peggy helps
as ones’ own. For example, when I teach a
person’s idea, you’ve copied it or even sto-
riders learn to use their bodies wisely to
clinic, I try to give credit to the person or
len it. What does that say about your in-
prevent injury and to communicate clearly,
source where I got the information. For in-
tegrity as a professional? When in doubt
in balance and harmony with their horse.
stance, I might say “I learned this wonder-
always ask permission, this is certainly not
Working domestically and internationally,
ful breathing technique directly from Sally
an instance where imitation is considered a
Peggy as the Visible Rider™ wears a bone
Swift” or “I found this new jumping pattern
form of flattery.
suit that helps riders learn more about their own bodies and how the rider’s position af-
in Jim Wofford’s book Modern Gymnastics” or “Here’s a great illustration of haunches
A professional should stand tall enough in
fects the horse’s body. She has taught rid-
in from Susan Harris’s poster series on
their boots to be able to credit those other
ing and driving in North America, Australia,
lateral work”. Please understand that of
instructors, judges, authors and illustrators
Iceland, Scandinavia, Japan, Egypt, Israel,
course there are many things we learn that
who have had an impact upon their lives
Europe, and the United Kingdom. In 2011
are out there in the great common pond
and who have taught them important
The Japanese Racing Association spon-
of horse wisdom, but professionals know
lessons. You probably won’t of course
sored Anatomy In Motion™ to present at
that when we use another professional’s
remember to credit every single idea over
two of their Jockey training schools. Peggy
work, we should try very hard to give credit
the years that has crossed your path but
also performed with Susan Harris in Vienna,
where credit is due.
please do your best to give credit where
Austria for the first European Centered
credit is due. Ask permission to use the
Riding Symposium. Peggy’s goals are to
A professional must understand and be
ideas and works of others and remember
help horses improve performance and com-
clear on copyright laws and trademark re-
even if you think you have gotten away
fort levels by helping their riders and driv-
strictions. Publishers and authors take these
with using the work and ideas of others,
ers establish sensitive, balanced, indepen-
things very seriously and have not put the
there may well be other knowledgeable
dent seat and hands. Peggy lives with her
time, money, and work into creating a book
professionals and horse people quietly
husband and animal friends at Walnut Hill
or video to then have it be stolen and passed
watching what you do. You will never make
Farm in Maumee, Ohio. ™
off by others as their own work. When you
a mistake by following correct professional
wish to use a quote from another’s work or
ethics and honest practices – teach fairly,
borrow a photo or illustration from a book,
teach honestly, teach well.
24
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
www.anatomyinmotion.com
Schools, Colleges and Universities with Equine Programs Name of school: Averett University
What degree or certificate programs are offered?
Bachelor of Science Degree in Equestrian Studies. There are 5 concentrations to choose from within the degree. All majors take a core of about 30 hours in ES courses and then specialize afterwards. 1 Dressage Instruction: students develop skills and a base of classical theory for eventing, training, competing, teaching, and writing about Dressage. 2 Eventing Instruction: teaches classical theory and practice for competing, training, and teaching eventing. Students can earn their ARIA certification while in school through an instructor certification course. They also have the opportunity to go through USDF and USEA instructor training programs. 3 Equine Assisted Psychotherapy: Students take courses in
psychology as well as participate in practicums learning EAP equine specialist skills. 4 Equine Science: Students take a variety of science course to prepare them for graduate studies in veterinary medicine, nutrition, equine reproduction and more. 5 Equine Management: Students take additional courses in the business department to compliment the equine courses, and prepare students for a variety of business and marketing careers in the equine sector. What riding disciplines are available?
Classes in dressage, hunt seat and eventing are offered at a variety of skill levels. Are the horses owned by the school, students or others?
The horses are all owned by or leased to the University. What equestrian-related extracurricular activities (clubs, teams, etc.) are available?
We participate in the Intercollegiate Dressage Association, Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (hunt seat), compete regionally in eventing and combined training shows, work with a local thoroughbred rescue, and have a pre-vet club. Are there pre-qualifying criteria for students wishing to enter your program?
There are no pre-qualifications for our program. Because our
WORLD-CLASS EQUINE AT CAZENOVIA COLLEGE
• Nationally ranked team competing in Hunter Seat,Western Horsemanship, Reining and Dressage • Nationally recognized equine business management program • Ranked one of America’s Best Colleges and a top Best Value in the north by U.S. News
OUR 240-ACRE EQUINE EDUCATION CENTER
Cazenovia College, Cazenovia, N.Y. 13035 www.cazenovia.edu 1.800.654.3210 16
Fall 2019
|
Riding Instructor
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
25
Steady Up There, Little Monkey By Didi Arias Illustration by author The first time I heard my wise and enlightened mentor mention the “monkey in the head” I knew exactly what she was referring to. What a perfect description for that inner “voice” that incessantly chatters on in the mind. Knowing that I had at least one monkey firmly established in my head I wanted to learn more about this monkey business, and most especially, how to rein it in. On went the kettle and we sat down for a long and informative chat. In Buddhist teaching, she explained, “monkey mind” is an expression for having unsettled, confused and/or indecisive thoughts; basically, a metaphor for a chaotic mind. That sounded so familiar and gives a simian face to one´s inner critic. The Buddha described the monkeys as being “intoxicated”, carrying on excitedly and noisily (as monkeys tend to do when they get excited). Science also recognizes the existence of this mental chatter and cites it as a normal function of the brain, which I guess is reassuring to know. So how does one know when you have an inhabitant monkey? Basically, the monkey resides there under the guise of your mind´s continuous mental “noise”, and It isn´t necessarily bad. That little monk helps keep us on top of things, gives us good hunches and instincts, so it’s a useful little guy to have around. It only becomes a problem when it takes on the role of sole DJ of your mental playlist of fears, worries and guilt, keeping
to have a moment of meditation but find
talk start up. When you are trying to fall to
that list set to “repeat”. When you do manage
your thoughts drifting to “why didn´t I buy
sleep, the monkey is either running through
to convince the monkey to play something
those breeches in khaki and I forgot to pick
tomorrow´s To-Do list or saying “Hey, are
else, it bangs out re-runs of the past, anxiety
up carrots”. Likewise, blame the monkey
you kidding? You´re relaxing when we have
about the future and self-doubting notions.
as you talk yourself out of riding today be-
a big show tomorrow?” All this mind chatter
As DJs go, when the monkey in this groove
cause the weather might get windy and the
keeps our brain cells in a state of over-activ-
it won´t win any prizes for positive uplifting
horse may spook and you may fall off, go to
ity, wearing us out physically and mentally
the spirit.
the hospital, get laid off from work and, and,
– it doesn´t seem content to just let us “be”.
and… If my coach has to remind me “not to The monkey is at work when you are trying
26
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
over-think it”, I know that I let the doubt
I asked my friend how one could deal with
an annoying imp and better still, how to get
and had no idea how to teach” would you?
rid of it. “You need to learn to live in balance
Of course not, so put yourself in to non-ac-
with your monkey -it´s not like you can call in
ceptance mode should those thoughts in-
an exterminator.” she pointed out, “But as it
vade your mind space, firmly telling that
is your own mind, you can control the mon-
monkey “no way, we´re not going there”.
key; it isn´t the other way around”. In short,
Curb those nasty thoughts by replacing them
accept your monkey, make friends with it, but
with counter thoughts (“I´m looking great”,
don´t permanently hand over the reins. She then laid out her suggestions for “reining in” the monkey which I have put in to my own words as memory serves. Meditate – The Buddhist belief is that the chatter can only be silenced through meditation, but I feel one has to be very trained and dedicated to be able to rewire their brain enough to completely block out all unwanted noise. Personally, some micro moments of meditative silence would suffice as trying to sit still and totally clear my mind is very challenging. I do think that some of us can find some meditative benefit in the performing of mindless tasks. My husband swears that mucking out is his daily meditation (great news for me!) and I do find that a specific art ritual I practice is very quietening and centering.
To be mindful just turn the brain over to being more aware of your surroundings through your senses, whether by concentrating on your breath, chewing slowly, the sensation of your hands on your horse´s body.
“losing twenty pounds was no easy feat”, and “my trainer thinks I´m an awesome pairing with my new jump prospect”). Substitute the negativity by envisioning positive outcomes (your student winning his class). Physical Activity – It is no news that exercise comes up here as a recommendation. The endorphin rush from exertion puts a silencer on mental noise, so go ahead, saddle up! Strange as it may seem, my personal monkey goes by the name “Mr. Jiggs” after the roller skating chimpanzee that gave a show at our school when I was a kid. I still remember him after all these years, so felt that it seemed right to posthumously honor his name (even though chimpanzees are not actually monkeys). Plus, if I am to live in harmony with my resident monkey, naming it seemed a good step in the right direction.
Engage in focused tasks – Our ability to
With our most interesting conversation com-
multi-task is an asset of having a little mon-
ing to an end, I gained a feeling of clarity and
key on hand as it allows switching on to au-
normalcy. I have been reminded that I am my
topilot to tackle a variety of things at once.
own DJ, selecting my own music and when to
But we also need to switch out of that mode
play it; I decide on the speed and the volume.
and be able to put deep focus on single tasks,
Quite simply, I am the one holding the reins.
otherwise we end up just coasting along. I was then gifted with the most beauti-
When we can concentrate our focus on specific jobs or actions it gives the monkey some
on your horse´s body. This awareness holds
ful Japanese ink painting of, guess what? A
down time. Speaking of “down time”, if there
you in the present and the monkey gets an-
monkey. This now has a special place on the
was ever an invention made to keep one dis-
other siesta. If the mind wanders, catch it
wall by my desk, the friendly face a reminder
tracted it is the cell phone, so make an effort
and gently guide it back. To practice being in
of its importance to me as part of who I am.
to wean yourself off its constant use.
the present, do it when it comes most naturally to you; for me, it is when I am in nature
Be mindful – Being mindful means “focus-
or quietly with my animals.
ing on the present” and one does not have
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
to meditate to be mindful. To be mindful
Hear No Evil – There may be times when
Didi Arias is a Level 3 ARIA
just turn the brain over to being more aware
your monkey mind loses its helpfulness
Certified Instructor and na-
of your surroundings through your senses,
and goes ape on you. You wouldn´t tolerate
tional dressage judge and
whether by concentrating on your breath,
someone running up to you and saying that
teacher, who resides in
chewing slowly, the sensation of your hands
you were “ugly, overweight, a lousy rider,
Almeria, Spain.
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
27
When Quitting Seems Fitting By Lydia Fairchok Some young police officers were talking
it would look with horses grazing blissfully
roam. Well-kept careers must be nurtured,
about the pros and cons of working for dif-
on those verdant, rolling hills? (Sorry, golf
protected from overuse, regularly purged
ferent agencies in the area. “Hey, Sarge!”
enthusiasts – perhaps you have thought my
of negative influences, and kept in check.
said one. “What would you tell someone
pastures would look better as a fairway.)
When these caretaking measures are in place, pastures and careers alike experience
who is looking to change jobs?” The sergeant looked thoughtful for a moment, then
Grass is also a fragile resource. Even if you
replied, “The grass is exactly the same.”
are blessed with more acres than horses,
steady growth and yield a fruitful harvest.
you undoubtedly have to practice some
Sometimes, though, no matter how much
Grass is important to horse professionals. It
type of rotational grazing, manure removal,
care you give your professional pasture, you
means our horses can have healthier joints,
over-seeding, weed control, and mowing.
cannot help but notice things that seem a
lower feed bills, and happier digestive sys-
Neglected pastures are easy to spot because
little greener on the other side of the fence.
tems, and we can have the satisfaction of
they quickly devolve into mud, stubble, and
Sometimes it is because our students have
seeing horses do what horses are meant to
waste. In short, good grass takes work.
gone before us. When clients walk out, we inevitably wonder if we are offering a worth-
do. In our line of work, we can’t imagine a more proper use for grassy expanses than
Our professional lives are very much like
while product, or if someone else really does
pastureland. Haven’t we all driven past a
the pastures that we rely on to provide our
have something that much better. “If only”
golf course and thought how much better
four-legged partners with food and room to
thoughts begin to creep in: If only my barn
28
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
was newer or fancier. If only my arena were
heard them from my friend JR, who works
tion will tell you why. Did you reach this
bigger, or I had an indoor. If only my horses
in the competitive world of auto sales. He
point because you struggle with managing
were better-bred or more talented.
was tired of changes at his dealership that
demands on your time, relational boundar-
had given rise to poor leadership, organiza-
ies with others, separating work and home
Sometimes the work itself weighs us down.
tional flaws, and negative coworker dynam-
life, or allowing destructive vices to drag
We question the return on our efforts: Why
ics. He was weary of showing up to the same
you down? Remember that you are the sole
am I doing this? Who really benefits from all
unwinnable battle every morning, but he
common denominator of all your experi-
these hours I’m putting in? Does anyone be-
wasn’t willing to quit on a bad day.
ences, and your personal baggage is portable. Resigning from a position (or even
sides me really care? With admirable tenacity, JR guarded his pos-
liquidating a business) is elementary com-
Sometimes the days are never-ending, the
itive attitude and stuck it out until things
pared to resigning from an attitude. The
wheelbarrows are overflowing with ma-
got better. Nothing was perfect—many of
work of ending a negative mindset begins
nure and have flat tires; the horses are
the issues persisted to varying degrees—but
now so you can make a rational decision
lame or unwilling; the students are dull or
eventually there were times where he could
about whether or not you should go, and
contentious or needy; another piece of the
point to specific accomplishments and say
so you can bring your best self to any new
barn just fell off; another piece of you just
“That went well.” As those days developed,
ventures.
started to ache, and another bill just arrived.
so did an opportunity to work elsewhere.
Sometimes the farm across town seems
He took the new position and walked away
Don’t leave unfinished work.
like they have it all together while you are
without having to wonder if he gave up too
The overarching work of teaching is a con-
splitting at the seams. Sometimes, Monday
soon or if he made a knee-jerk reaction.
tinual journey with no definitive end. Your
through Friday, nine-to-five with paid time
JR quit on a good day. Short of an urgently
task will never be “finished” in the tradi-
off, benefits, and a 401K doesn’t sound so
toxic or morally compromising situation, so
tional sense because there will always be
bad, does it?
should you.
more students and horses that could benefit from your time and expertise. However,
Stop. It’s not bad to think about moving,
Don’t quit just to get away.
changing, or doing something else entirely.
When I downsized my instruction program
less like walking out a door than it is like
It’s not bad to take an honest look at the
in 2014, I wasn’t escaping from teaching. A
taking an exit ramp off the interstate. You
scope and sustainability of your horse busi-
career in public safety was an exciting and
wouldn’t crash through the guardrail along
ness. It’s not even bad if you come to the
welcome change, but it wasn’t because I
a highway just to get onto an adjoining
conclusion that you can’t, don’t want to, or
couldn’t stand one more day in the arena;
road; you would wait for an exit even if it
shouldn’t do this anymore. But if you are
it was because I had a new purpose in a dif-
meant travelling a little farther out of your
thinking about throwing in the towel, make
ferent field.
way.
Sometimes our calling changes, and that’s
Likewise, leaving an instruction program
there is a right way to leave, and it’s a lot
sure you are actually thinking. Don’t simply react to frustrations and feelings.
okay. Leaving to go to something else is
should be a sensible sequence wherein
The grass on both sides of the fence is exactly
a positive and empowering experience.
stepping back does not result in damage
the same. If you quit—totally or partially—be-
Perhaps you are ready to change gears
to you or your stakeholders. People rely
cause you are worn out, discouraged, or feel-
to raise a family, move to a new state, or
on you to provide a degree of transition,
ing insufficient and defeated, then you are
jump into a completely different industry.
whether through referrals or providing the
running the substantial risk of throwing away
Congratulations! Teaching will always be a
knowledge and tools for them to find their
something that should have been salvaged.
part of who you are, and you will carry the
own alternatives. Horses count on you for
You have an obligation, therefore, to weigh
benefits of your equine career into all your
careful placement in new homes. As you
the choice of quitting with the same thor-
future endeavors.
contemplate quitting, are you able to wrap
oughness and professionalism that should
up your loose ends, or would you be leaving
drive all your decisions. So how do you con-
Other times, our calling remains the same,
unresolved messes for someone else? If it’s
sider the possibility of quitting the right way?
and it is our attitude about the calling that
time to go, ways to go properly will begin to
has shifted. Are you overworked, resentful,
present themselves.
Never quit on a bad day.
and passionless about teaching? The nov-
Google is inconclusive on the matter of
elty of a new path is unlikely to last very
I recently experienced this when a client
who first uttered these important words. I
long. Relentless and honest self-examina-
and I made the difficult decision to give up
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
29
on her gelding, who clearly didn’t enjoy the
able and can develop deeper relationships.)
of my own struggle with the desire to give up. The grass of my career was getting over-
job we had in mind for him. After months of frustration, quitting became a real option.
While not all of your inner circle has to have
grazed and underfed in a hurry, and many
Our main concern was finding a home that
a strong sense of rightness about every one
nights found me begging God to take some-
would be able to manage his quirks, some
of your decisions, you should find affirma-
thing off my plate, and for that something
of which required experienced handling. We
tion or at least a general lack of opposition
to be instruction. The other side of the fence
cautiously and reluctantly spread the word
among your “abundance of counselors”
looked awfully green compared to where I
that he was for sale. Within a week, his daily
when you air your thoughts about quitting.
was standing, and the work of restoring my
caretaker at the boarding stable approached
If you do encounter differing opinions, lis-
own pasture felt insurmountable.
my client to say that she wanted him. We
ten closely to the reasons why, and don’t
already knew that they had an established
discount the contributions of those who
My calling isn’t over, though. When I con-
bond and she was familiar with his handling
are not inside the horse industry with you.
sider the needs of my horses and students,
needs, so it was an easy decision and a rea-
People who know you well do not have to
I’m not on an exit ramp. When I talk to my
son to rejoice as the question “Should we
know your field well in order to have hon-
inner circle of people who are positioned to
quit?” was answered almost immediately.
est and valuable input. Oftentimes the
speak into my life, they affirm me in my re-
outside perspective is the most unbiased
sponsibility to keep teaching. When I look
perspective.
closely at myself, I see that the areas that
You don’t need everything to be spelled out up front, and often you will wait much lon-
need to change are not within instruction
have!), but there should be some degree
Don’t make up your heart before you make up your mind.
of external confirmation that your work is
Have you heard the tongue-in-cheek re-
adapt. Someday these factors may be differ-
coming to a natural close or someone else is
sponse, “My mind is made up; don’t confuse
ent, and stepping back might be the right
ready to step up and continue the mission.
me with facts”? Walking away from a role
call at that time. For now, whether it’s a
as an instructor is rarely just a professional
good day or a bad day, quitting isn’t on the
move. Instruction is built on relationships—
table.
ger than a week for the answer (I certainly
Don’t make the decision in a vacuum.
itself; it is the way I manage my time and obligations outside the arena that needs to
In the words of King Solomon, whose reign
with clients, with peers, with horses—which
over ancient Israel was characterized by
means that any contemplation of quitting is
I hope it isn’t on the table for you, either,
wisdom and peaceful prosperity, “Where
bound to be an emotionally charged line of
because we need instructors who are com-
there is no guidance, a people falls, but in
thought.
mitted to professionalism and the good of the horse. Our industry needs you; your stu-
an abundance of counselors there is safety.” Wise kings didn’t make their decisions—
These emotions help us to consider options
dents need you; your horses need you. But if
which would have affected the entire civili-
outside our comfort zone, develop strong
the time truly has come to bow out, the rest
zation in their care—in isolation. They had
convictions about our courses of action,
of us will take it from here. Only let your de-
advisors who were qualified contributors to
and provide fuel to follow through, which is
cision be made out of careful consideration
the decision-making process, and the king
a good thing...as long as we make our ac-
and wisdom, not bitter resentment and the
didn’t move forward without first weighing
tual decisions based on facts, not feelings.
errant belief that some other pasture holds
the words of their counsel.
It is human nature to seek out only those
better promises.
pieces of information and opinions that If you are a leader (hint: if you are an in-
tend to agree with the answer we want, but
Hang in there, my friend, through this roller
structor, you are a leader), you need a group
“follow your heart” is a Disney myth. While
coaster of decision-making. You are a skilled
of people close enough to you that they can
our feelings provide valuable impetus, our
and competent individual who will bring
speak honestly and directly into your life.
brains are meant to ultimately reign over
value to everything you do no matter where
This might be comprised of a spouse, profes-
our hearts. Get outside the emotional bub-
you go. If you stay, stay because there is still
sional peers, mentors, close friends, or other
ble, get honest with yourself, and get wise
good work to be done, and you are meant to
family members—but it needs to be people
counsel. Whether you quit or keep on keep-
do it. If you quit, do it with excellence be-
who are not afraid to tell you when you are
ing on, you won’t regret how you got there.
cause in doing so, you will leave the grass on this side of the fence a little greener for the
going off course. (If you don’t have anyone who can address you honestly this way, you
May I be painfully honest? I write these
rest of us, and we will thank you for it as we
probably have some work to do on your
things to you because this year, I wanted to
wish you well in your next calling.
character so that you are more approach-
quit teaching. Every point above is a piece
30
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
GIVE YOUR HORSE THE STOMACH
TO PREVENT ULCERS. Horses constantly face changes big and small that cause stress. But you can help prevent stress from causing ulcers. Protect your horse by medicating during times of potential stress with ULCERGARD. There is no generic for the gold standard in equine omeprazoles. FDA approved. Proven to work. Trusted for decades.
STRIKE BEFORE STRESS DOES.
ULCERGARD IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: ULCERGARD can be used in horses that weigh at least 600 lbs. Safety in pregnant mares has not been determined. Not for use in humans. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children. In case of ingestion, contact a physician. ULCERGARD® is a registered trademark of Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health USA Inc. ©2020 Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health USA Inc., Duluth, GA. All rights reserved. US-EQU-0189-2020
31
What’s new
ty as the
mplicated attention. icles have work and ates differ nts, avoid
can also nification hat would in which essor and mless, and e lessor is es the lesses can be attorney.
ngements
and ends t)
ons
➢ Cameo’s Cauldron cont’d from page 30 into your curriculum. Trail rides are one way you can do this as well as being great learning experiences, but there are many others activities too. Are there people in your area that do yoga or meditation classes, who are very knowledgeable herbalists or gardeners? You might offer them a natural space to hold Absorbine some sessions. Since you and your people are already present, there can be an easy flow into Silver Honey® Rapid Wound Repair from Absorbine® is the first and only something that may help all. Perhaps others wound and careclasses, line toand combine in the area willskin join these become the natural healing powers of medical interested in lessons. grade Manuka Honey and MicroSilver BG™. The revolutionary formulas It shouldn’tthe taketreatment a crisis for us to realize moisturize area as it heals and are proven to stop 99.9% of what’s important, but it usually does. Let’s bacteria immediately to start healing faster. not ignore or forget what we have suffered to learn. Let’s use it to improve our lives, Veterinarian-developed and tested Silver Honey® also protects the skin’s the lives of those around us, and to be betnatural soinyour horses, ponies and animal companions heal ter people.microbiome, We have all been this together, and, if we continue to work together, will quickly and comfortably. SilverweHoney® can be used on all animals and is all be fine when it’s well and truly over.
– the OEQ™ CoreRide™ collection. This traditional zip front paddock boot will provide hundreds of hours of stylish and reliable use, thanks to the genuine leather construction, eco
About the author: itch, wounds and burns.
rider rubber sole and YKK® front zipper. A corrected grain finish is smooth,
Cameo Miller is a Masters-level clinical psychologist and a Level IV ARIA Certified Instructor based in Michigan. She is a member of the ARIA Evaluation Panel and National Riding Instructors Convention Staff.
uniform and attractive without compromising durability, and is paired with
www.silverhoney.com
a Cambril lining which is breathable, anti-bacterial, anti-mold, and anti-static for all-day comfort. Elastic side gussets provide a custom fit and ease of wear. A dual insole system provides two sets of insoles – one for whole-number sizing, and one to create half-sizing – which allows room for
emnificaby law)
growth, or changes in socks for varying weather. These boots won’t disap-
language
point – and neither will the matching half chaps, sold separately. The grain leather half chaps provide an elegant look plus enhanced grip.
erly draftase”/share he horse,
most experiShareholder n Michigan. cases in 18 quine cases Lawyers in Association Animal Law n 29 states. orse Sense, is available please visit
State Line Tack® is pleased to introduce new paddock boots and half chaps
effective on cuts, abrasions, sores, rain rot, rashes, fungus, scratches, sweet
n-routine
al advice. pecific sitledgeable
State Line Tack
The YKK® zip back ensures easy on/off and thousands of smooth zipper cycles, while a full-length elastic gusset allows for a custom fit. Elastic snaps at the top and bottom protect the zipper integrity without binding while
Accidents happen.
riding, and the elastic foot stirrup accommodates a variety of boots and soles. They can be paired with the matching paddock boots for a complete and sophisticated look in the irons.
An accident that happens during your lesson is a threat to your career, business, and assets. With Markel’s Riding Instructor Liability Coverage, it takes only a few minutes to protect yourself. •
Credit to ARICP certified instructors.
•
Up to $1,000,000 liability limits.
•
Coverage applies on and off premises.
Official Insurance Supplier of The American Riding Instructors Association
The entire OEQ™ collection is comprised of timeless, well-designed pieces that add functionality and value to any equestrian’s life. Only the best fabrics are utilized in designs that have been rigorously tested to ensure their
Debi DeTurk (888) 217-3657
usefulness, resulting in the creation of products that ensure the only thing you’re worried about at the barn is your performance.
horseinsurance.com
To view the entire OEQ™ collection, visit
Liability • Mortality • Farm owners • Care, custody & control • Umbrella liability riding-instructor.com | Summer 2020
32
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
www.oakequestrian.com 25
Cowgirl Magic Ultra Hydrating Cream by Cowboy Magic… A Little Magic Just for You! Riding your horse every day, not to mention a myriad of barn chores - is tough on our skin, leaving it dry and irritated. Cowgirl Magic Ultra Hydrating Cream was created especially for those who ride and take care of horses! This age-defying moisturizer, new to the Cowboy Magic line of products, adds a cowgirl’s touch. Rejuvenate hands, neck and face with a mildly aromatic, silk-infused cream designed just for a cowgirl (or cowboy) like you. Enriched with age-defying ingredients, this magical cream, includes a blend of natural oils such as coconut, apricot, avocado, sesame and olive oils that restore suppleness to the skin and vital nutrients help to keep nails strong and flexible. Poof! Just like magic, it absorbs immediately into the skin without leaving any residue. Perfect to keep a firm grip on the reins!
www.cowboymagic.com
American Riding Instructor Certification Program Nationally recognized certification for 37 years ____________ National standards of excellence and integrity
Somerset Equestrian Trading Espoir Equestrian UV Protective shirts offer the ultimate in comfort, style and fit! The hand illustrated designs feature equestrian themes and take you from Stable to Street! Ladies’s sizes XXS- 2XL. $99.
American Riding Instructors Association P.O. Box 366 Alton, NH 03809-0366 Phone 603-605-5275 e-mail aria@riding-instructor.com web www.riding-instructor.com
Visit www.somersetequestriantrading.com to see the complete collection.
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
33
ber growing up in the time where we all said, “I want to be like Mike.” Athletic superstars have a way of becoming superhuman in our minds; if we wear the shoes, wear the clothes, and adapt the same attitude we can do it, too. Of course, we all learn at some point it takes a lot more to achieve athletic greatness. When I look at the riding pros that cover the magazines and dominate social media, I examine what habits they will be setting for the kids that I currently teach. Do they wear helmets? Are they kind to their horses? What kind of message are they sending? I will admit that I have seen examples of
Influenced Behavior By Christine Olsen
riders emulating their idols by purchasing a certain saddle, wearing a certain brand of clothing, or suddenly changing their position because ‘so-and-so’ rides that way. It is good to be reminded from time to time
I am a baseball fan. I grew up around the
the helmet on as they walked out, or keep it
that as an instructor or coach you are al-
sport. Not only was my father a coach for
on as they approached the dugout. Even with
ways setting an example as part of your job
our local baseball and softball teams, but
the reminders, the kids continued to forget.
description. Reflect on the example you are
my siblings and I played the sport as soon
This behavior became so frequent the referee
setting today.
as we could hold a bat. The majority of my
had to come to the dugout twice to explain
time now as an adult is spent in the sand of
the rule, and give the team a warning.
You don’t have to be an Olympic rider to set a good example. Every trainer, instructor,
the riding arena, rather than a baseball diamond. When I can get away, there’s nothing
I couldn’t help but wonder what was hap-
coach and working student should be set-
I like more than filling the hours with a good
pening. I did not keep track of how many
ting an example at all times. Even the attire
ball game.
times this rule was repeated, but it was more
of the barn staff helps identify the culture of
than enough that it was no longer a forgot-
a stable and can help your clients pick up the
A while back I remember attending one of
ten mistake, but rather a clear objection
habits you want them to possess.
my nephew’s baseball games. It was near the
to the rule. If they are instructed to keep
end of summer, and there is no better feeling
their helmets on, I wondered who is teach-
Ask your students who their riding icons are.
than a hot day melting into a cool evening.
ing them to take their helmets off? When
Ask them what qualities they look up to, and
While I was watching this game and trying
watching the pros on TV, it is clear to see
why. This could lead to some very interesting
to allow my mind to unwind and relax, there
who the influence is.
discussions. This will not only help you further mentor your rider, but continue devel-
were observations that couldn’t go unnoticed. Particularly it was about the boys’ be-
In this situation, kids are looking up to their
havior on wearing their batting helmets.
idols and ignoring their coaches’ instructions. As a coach myself, I found this dis-
During the entirety of the game, I was truly
play extremely alarming. I was concerned
amazed at how many times the boys would
for my nephew, his safety, and how he took
take off their helmets while they were out-
instruction.
side of the dugout. Anyone who has ever played the sport on any level knows that a
Having a sports idol is important for every
batter must wear a helmet at all times. The
athlete. It is a physical manifestation of a
coach would both remind their players to put
goal to continue working toward. I remem-
34
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
oping a great relationship with your client. About the author: Christine Olsen has 15 years of experience in the industry as a rider, trainer, clinician and instructor. She provides mobile coaching services through Northern Illinois and enjoys sharing her passion for horses with her students.
Cameo’s cauldron … in which Cameo Miller stirs her thoughts and ideas to see what rises to the top.
argue forcefully that they are ‘right’. But you
profession. But, as noted before, your skills,
can talk to the next person and their ‘right’
abilities, circumstances, and everything else
way is sometimes diametrically opposed to
about you and your life is unique. There is
the first person’s ‘right’ way. And we’ve all
no one else in the world exactly like you. If
heard all the shadings of ‘right’ in between
you pay attention to what you do very well,
the two opposite ones. So those of us who
and what you do less well, you can tailor what
pay attention have learned that there is no
you offer to be exactly what some people
‘right’ way. We again look to those who seem
need, and you will be VERY GOOD at it.
to be doing the best in whatever discipline we
Your reputation will grow, and so will your
have chosen—adopting their methods and
business.
techniques. Where many of us fail, is that we then try to But if you’re really paying attention, you
expand beyond what we are so good at into
will also notice that you have to tweak even
what we are only so-so at. Always continuing
the best advice to fit your own totally unique
to improve what we know is desirable and
situation. Sometimes people feel badly about
important, but we do not need to immediately
this—“I would love to be able to xyz, but…”
incorporate that into what we are currently
Sometimes people give up on something
teaching if this compromises our reputation
that would partially work very well for them
as “expert” at what we do know well.
because they can’t do it all the way. What a
example, you may have learned a great deal
shame! Pay even more attention. There is no
about saddle fit recently, but to then begin
‘right’ way to do anything. There wouldn’t
“teaching” that to your students may not be
be “new math” if there was only one way to
your best bet. It may be better to have the
YOU ARE UNIQUE
do math, there wouldn’t be new procedures
real expert come in so you and your students
if there was only one ‘right’ way to do surgery.
all learn more.
For
There is no “only one right way” to do anything that I can think of. So where does
We are all coming back from a very difficult
that leave us? With discovering the very best
year. As I’ve said in previous articles, this is
way to do things for each of us. Each one of
a really good time to reassess and change
us has different resources and circumstances,
how you operate as you reopen. You really
By Cameo Miller
different strengths and weaknesses, different
shouldn’t balance yourself on a scale using
Illustration by Bethany Caskey
everything. Each one of us is totally unique
anyone else on the other side, or try to follow
as is our situation.
their path. There is already someone ahead of you there. Be so great at what you do that
We all have those in our profession whom we look up to and try to emulate. We learn
We all know that the person who can train at
others consider balancing against you. Learn
as much as we can from them so that we can
the highest level may not have the patience
from others, don’t try to be them. They are
work towards being as good as they are. We go
or desire to work with the rank beginner.
unique too, you can never be better at being
to clinics, watch videos, and read voraciously
While there are those who are equally expert
them than they can. You are unique, you
(no, I’m not kidding—have you seen the
at working with the beginners. We know that
are special, no one else in the world can do
number of how-to books there are on riding).
the person who has an innate feel for what to
exactly what you do in exactly the way you do
We debate with each other over different
shift or change to create what they want from
it. This is a great gift for you to use if you pay
and varied methods—sometimes to try to
the horse may make the very best trainer,
attention to it. Let’s go into this new chapter
get others to embrace our favorite methods,
but may not be able to explain what they are
fully reopened, fully aware of our strengths,
sometimes to refine what we are doing by
doing to be able to teach students. For every
and fully utilizing them.
adding in new techniques. And we are all
tiny bit of our profession, different skills and
well aware of the myriad variety of ways there
abilities are needed to be the best at it.
are to work with and be around our equine partners. This can sometimes be daunting—
So what are YOUR strengths and weaknesses?
there is no RIGHT way to do anything. Lots of
No one can be all things to all people, and no
people will tell you what the ‘right’ way is and
one can be the very best at every part of our
About the author: Cameo Miller is a Masters-level clinical psychologist and a Level IV ARIA Certified Instructor based in Michigan. She is a member of the ARIA Evaluation Panel and an ARIA National Test Center Administrator.
Summer 2021 | Riding Instructor
35
FLIES DRINK 4 CUPS OF YOUR
HORSE’S BLOOD EVERY 10 DAYS1
Don’t let them feast. With each bite, the risk of transmitting disease increases. Stop ticks, flies, gnats and mosquitoes before they start with UltraShield® EX. Its sun, sweat and water-resistant formula kills and repels them for up to 17 days. And won’t burn the skin like oil-based products.
Get UltraShield® EX, the Fly Spray in the Black Bottle,™ for our most-advanced, longest-lasting protection.
EndFlyFrustration.com 1
Townsend L. Horse flies and deer flies. University of Kentucky ENTFACT-511.
©2021 W.F. Young, Inc.
