The Evolution of Western Dressage

Continued from page 58 horse’s balance throughout the entire sequence to ensure a smooth ride. This can be achieved through half-halts or brief moments of contact and pressure on the reins that help to rebalance the horse before each turn or change of direction. Additionally, riders should ensure their horse moves forward with impulsion and straightness, making it easier to transition between movements without losing balance or rhythm. Remembering these tips can help make for a successful, fluid, and accurate serpentine.

Serpentines are a complex subject, but with the proper instruction and practice, anyone can learn how to properly incorporate these movements

County Lines

2. The meat will be burgers and dogs for donations and potluck as usual along with other activities posted on the kiosk at the campground and our Facebook into Western dressage. Taking the time to get familiar with the basics, understand the benefits, and learn the rules of engagement will ensure you are prepared when creating serpentines during your next western dressage session. Being mindful of transitions between movements can provide a smoother ride for you and your horse. The addition of serpentines has significantly helped evolve this equestrian sport, making it more enjoyable for riders while allowing horses to showcase their abilities. Ultimately, it is up to us as riders to stay informed on best practices regarding serpentines so we can provide our horses with comfortable rides that will have them looking forward to every session with us. theconfidenthorseman.com and www.horsehappyhour.com. Til next time, enjoy the ride.

Hope you find this helpful. For more tips and information, visit my blogs at www.

Kelley Bitter is the owner of Buckeye Performance Horse Center and The Winning Edge Mental Performance Coaching in Newbury, Ohio. A second-generation horsewoman, Kelley began riding and showing at 4 years old. In her teens, she started riding Arabians in various disciplines and won several Regional and USEF titles over the last 50 years. Kelley started riding Western Dressage in 2016. In 2018 Kelley attended the WDAA Train the Trainer program. She has won several titles including placing two of her Arabians in the WDAA World show in 2020 top 15. At the WDAA International Challenge 2021 she placed with her Quarter Horse, Arabians and her student received top ten in the Gaited Division. Kelley also holds certifications as a Mental Performance Coach, Equine Massage Therapy, Equine Laser Therapy and Equine Nutrition. You can read more about western dressage at www.horsehappyhour.com and learn about mental performance coaching at www.theconfidenthorseman.com page. Our Camp Host, Ray, will pass out itinerary’s to all the campers there.

Last I heard, our campground at Van Buren may be closed from

Oct. 2 until next July 4, 2024 for many planned improvements. We are supposed to get water and electric at all camp sites, a dump station, and they plan to black top the rest of the driveway and pads. I will keep you posted on that.

September 8-10 is Edison Woods for Erie County’s Poker

Run, Sept. 22-24 is our NW State Ride at Van Buren, Octoberfest at Reed Road Ranglers is Sept. 29-30 with Harry Hughes Ridea-thon on Oct. 1. Our last scheduled ride is at Sycamore State Park Oct. 19-22. Have miles of smiles! ~Barb O.