Competition and horse welfare - Can they be compatible?

One of my non horsey friends once asked me if my horses actually enjoyed being ridden, and whether given the choice, they would ever want a rider on their backs.

With the last Olympic and Paralympic Games behind us, we heard and read growing concerns about the welfare of horses at these high levels of competition, and some groups are even saying that equestrian events should be excluded from the big games (although this also has a lot to do with economics and the cost of hosting equestrian events).

Is it fair to ask a horse to travel such long distances and endure very unnatural living and training conditions for the sake of competition, a strictly human endeavor?  Is it humane to endanger horse and rider by requiring them to jump enormous fixed fences at extreme levels of difficulty, as seen in eventing?  How about those horses who have to submit to questionable training methods that are deemed cruel, harsh and even abusive?  Every sport has them!

Cottesmore Leap (Burghley Horse Trials)!

Difficult questions are being asked.  I do believe most riders out there truly love their horses...  I always loved mine deeply, even when I competed and rode very traditionally in the hunter-jumper world.  Even when I had to force my horse into a trailer for a show, or put a chain over her nose to clip her ears.  I just did not know what I did not know, and I did what I was taught to do by well regarded coaches.  Did I ever question my technique - yes, often.  Did I know there was another way, no, not then (this was over 35 years ago).  I had not yet been exposed to other systems or methods, and I was being directed and maintained on a competitive track. Let's be realistic:  this is how a large number of coaches are able to earn a living... it is a fact that riders that compete generally spend more money than recreational horse people - on lessons, horses, coaching and entry fees, etc.

Nowadays, with the advent of the Internet, social media and the growth of natural horsemanship and horse welfare movements, it is harder to remain unaware and it has become impossible to forget, if not ignore, that the world is watching how riders and competitors are achieving their results. The issues arise when the love of the sport and the need for recognition start overtaking the love of the horse... in other words, when the goal becomes more important than the relationship.

Jolie, my former competition horse and the reason I found a different way (Coco 2003)

Back to the first question:  do my horses enjoy being ridden?  I truly believe they do, because they have been given the opportunity of a kind, solid start (or restart) and foundation training, one that values their dignity, their confidence and allows them to understand the process.  One that allows them to learn the fundamental skills they need to operate confidently in our environment and prepares them for a specialized endeavor.  They find purpose in the riding, because I try very hard to give it meaning and provide variety.  I believe it enriches their otherwise very monotonous lives in always too small pastures where everything is provided and they don't even have to flee from predators.  I am convinced that just like us, horses need to have a sense of purpose and a reason for being in their lives.  In the wild, they have to find food, water, protect the herd, reproduce and care for their offspring and herd mates.  In our human and unnatural world, if left to themselves, they become pasture ornaments or barnyard pets with limited stimulation and very few opportunities to think, make decisions and learn.  Horses do love to learn!

I see it as my duty and responsibility as a horse owner to provide meaningful enrichment to their lives by setting them up to learn something new every day, to become calmer, smarter, braver and more athletic.  Idle hooves are the devil's workshop and horses, not unlike dogs and children, do need regular activity and mental stimulation to stay in balance, mentally, emotionally and physically.

Competition can offer such a purpose and meaning, and it can also be done WITH the horse rather than TO the horse, as long as we uphold the principles of good horsemanship and allow the horse to set the timeline.  Questionable training methods are often used for the sake of saving time, taking a shortcut to the desired result, often at the expense of the horse's mental, emotional and even physical well being.  The result is a large number of horses that break down young, can no longer take the pressure, sustain training injuries or even die on the job.  I believe competition done with the horse first in mind can be enjoyed by both horse and rider. I also believe that not all horses are suited for competition, just like some people just don't have the personality to enjoy competing.  Putting the relationship first may mean finding a different career avenue for a horse that is not able to cope well with the crowds, the pressure, the constant changes and the travel involved in a competitive career.

Luca Moneta, international show jumping using natural horsemanship

Is it possible to find freedom within the harness of a rider development and competition system that rewards horses that are trained too fast and must compete at young ages?  That rewards the use of artificial aids, quick fix techniques and often unnatural movement and exercises?  That is designed to teach riders to compete above all, and barely addresses essential horsemanship skills and knowledge? A select few have been able to do it; it takes dedication, a strong resolve and a very open mind. Choosing the path less traveled requires grit, passion, hard work, motivation, determination, core values, and a healthy dose of talent.  Thankfully we are seeing more and more examples out there, riders who choose to put the horse's dignity, confidence and well being above all else and still manage to succeed at very high levels.  They are not the norm, but they exist and they give me hope that things are slowly changing.

Lauren Barwick, Canadian Paralympian, Silver and Gold Medallist, and 4 Star Parelli Instructor

What if we all considered achieving the following three things with our horses:  Bonding, Obedience and Exuberance.  Many people are able to achieve bonding with the horse through kindness, food, etc., but without obedience, these large reactive animals can quickly become dangerous.  I spend a lot of my time helping well intended and kind people stay safe and teaching their out of control horses respect without fear.
In the competition world, we see a lot of obedience.  Unfortunately, many of these horses would rather be anywhere else than with their human.  As horsemen, we are constantly learning and relearning how to obtain willing obedience without losing rapport with the horse, and it is a fine balance that can easily tip one way or the other.
Exuberance is the horse's willingness to put effort into what we want.  This is when we know we have won the horse's heart, when they choose to do our thing, their way.  They are then able to express their own selves while contributing to the achievement of a common purpose or goal.  After all, horses will run faster and jump higher out of heart and desire!

Blue Moon, an ordinary horse learning to do extraordinary things through Bonding, Obedience and Exuberance

Another great example is Amy Bowers, Licensed Parelli 4 Star Instructor, who is moving up the eventing ranks and now riding at the Preliminary level. A very talented young rider and accomplished horsewoman, she is learning to master that delicate balance with her partner Piper and quickly getting noticed in the eventing world.

Amy Bowers and Piper

What if every competitor has these three things in place, Bonding, Obedience and Exuberance, Would it help ease many of the concerns for the competing horse's welfare?  Might we be able to see more examples of harmonious partnerships and happier horses, which in turn might fuel a growing interest in equestrian sports?

I would love to hear your thoughts on the subject.

Are you ready to go back to (horsemanship) school?

It is that time of year, summer is coming to an end and we start to prepare for fall and winter...  Yet some of the best riding months are still ahead of us, with cooler temperatures, bug free days and gorgeous colors.

My J2S Your Journey to SavvyTM distance coaching program has been extremely well received in the last 2 years. Students especially love the group interaction and support, as well as the guided learning with regular assignments, immediate feedback, timely answers to questions, and live coaching.

The distance format allows them to work at their own pace in their own environment, and on their own timeline, while staying accountable and remaining motivated by the group and the instructor.
The group coaching can be further enhanced with the addition of one-on-one video coaching options for those of you who want more specific support and coaching on a monthly or bi-weekly basis.
J2S combines video coaching, group interaction, support and guided learning with a Licensed Parelli Professional, all from the comfort of your own home and barn!

Get focused, make progress, meet new friends, have fun thanks to this innovative format!
Registrations are now open for the next class starting October 1st.  Take a look at the different options and make sure to sign up before September 25th to enjoy a fall season full of Learning, Experiencing, Sharing, Success and Celebration!

I sincerely hope you will consider joining us and I look forward to helping you on your journey!

Naturally yours,

Geneviève Benoit

Licensed Parelli 3-Star Instructor

What's new in J2S?

J2S 2.0 was launched last March.  Students still enjoyed the connection and group support, as well as the opportunity of receiving one-on-one coaching with the instructor. However, this improved version features a brand new curriculum, based on the new Savvy Club’s 12 Touchstones of Horsemanship, simplified assignments, and more fun tasks!

This new class will be held for 3 months instead of 4 (ending in December).

Here are a few of the great comments received from past classes:

"J2S is already the best value I’ve seen in horsemanship – anywhere, anytime."

"I really like your leadership and direction in the group. I have already progressed more with my horse in the first week than the previous six months (or longer). I thought the homework gave me a lot to think about … but then there was the hangout!"

"I LOVE this class! I have done more with my horse and learned more already than I have in a very long time (if ever).  And what a treat to be with like-minded people! I already feel so much less isolated.  I may never graduate"

Registrations are now open for the October 2016 class.

Click here for details and registration forms

This week, the horsemanship world lost a great teacher and horseman and I lost a friend

The news struck me fast and furious.  Mark Russell suffered a horse accident at a clinic a week ago and he was being flown to Boston, unconscious with serious neck injuries.  A quick exchange with his wife Hela who was waiting to fly to meet him left little doubt... We had to prepare to say goodbye.

A day later, Hela posted the sad inevitable news.  Mark was gone.  He died doing what he loved, pursuing his life's work - riding a young horse and teaching.  The horsemanship world and I have been mourning since.

You see, there has been a huge outpouring of love and sadness at this news.  Mark was widely appreciated and loved by his students and all who spent time with him.  How could they not love him?  He was wise, patient, incredibly giving, highly intelligent, generous and so knowledgeable.  He was an advocate of the horse.  He smiled and shared his wisdom and understanding with generosity and passion for the horse and the people who love them.

I could go on and on about his career, but they are many people in much better positions than I to do him justice.  I want to speak of the man, the friend that Mark was to me.

He started by being my farrier.  My young Lusitano Menina was quite particular about her front feet, and since my trimming skills were only budding, and no other professional was having much success with her, I happened upon Mark.  He showed up in his truck and trimmed her right in the parking lot without fuss or dust.  I instantly knew he was different.  She loved him.  She did not love everyone, especially when it came to holding her precious feet.  Little did I know that Mark and I would share as much as we did.  I did not know Hela then, they were not married and he had kept her to himself.  Every time he showed up at the Rhode Island farm where I worked, we would talk horses, especially young horses, as I learned to educate my spirited young filly.  He told me to 'get a deep seat and a far away look' as he tickled her right on the loins and she cabrioled on the spot!  I knew I had my hands full with this one. He knew what she was apt to do, and how great she could become, I accepted the lesson and the challenge.

Mark had not yet published his first book, Lessons in Lightness: The Art of Educating the Horse.  That was going to come soon after.  Only a small select group of people had seem him ride, and he was not yet doing much in the way of clinics.  He was self-effacing and never put himself forward, he was easy to miss. Unless you had an eye for horses and how they respond to humans.

Then suddenly, he was married to Hela and they moved to Tennessee!  I am not sure how that happened, it just happened.  I was getting out of Rhode Island and preparing to enter Parelli University hoping to become a Licensed Parelli Instructor.  My only riding horse was diagnosed with DSLD and had to be retired a few months before my move to Florida.  Menina was just a baby.  So Mark offered a horse - Easter - who is featured in his first book!  He said I could have her for however long I needed her to go through my training with the Parellis.  She had some baggage from a previous owner, and he only had a few hours on her, but, as he told me, 'she is tough as nails, very well bred and she is a good horse.  Take care of her and she will take care of you'.  He had liked how I handled and ridden the horses at the farm and thought we would be good together.  What a gift!

I drove to Tennessee with baby Menina in the trailer to pick up Easter, and spent a few days on the new farm.  This is when I got to know Hela.  Mark and I talked horses, Hela was adjusting to life on a farm. Mark gave me his book, signed it and wrote something about 'lightness'.  We talked some more, I helped with chores and I cooked for them.  The farm has an old plank barn on it, there was barbed wire everywhere, and the house was not even heated!  The only riding enclosure was a round pen, which I believe was Mark's playground for several years until he build an arena.  This is where we introduced Easter to Menina, and left them overnight to bond before I headed South.  They have been pair bonded to this day. Easter adopted Menina as a mother adopts a baby and they have been best friends ever since.

Several months later I returned to Tennessee with both horses and left them in Mark and Hela's care for a few weeks while I went home to visit family and sort out my life before returning to the Parelli campus, this time in Colorado for the summer months.  Once again, we shared stories, sat on the porch and I cooked for them.  Hela was adjusting, learning, still doubting, but faithfully doing her best.  She loved Mark and she was going to embrace the lifestyle.  I gathered my horses and I left for Colorado.  Throughout those first months with Parelli, I was learning to get to know Easter.  She had huge confidence issues, especially with riding, at least my riding! It took me a while to recognize it and I had to learn to earn her trust.  But what she did have, and I take no credit for it, was a deep understanding of contact and flexion, and a lightness to the bridle I had never felt before in my life.  She taught me what light could be, and I have since been able to take that feel to my other horses.  She taught me only because Mark taught her!  Her flexion started from way in the hind and carried on through to the hand and rider.  I was left with a big responsibility, and that was to preserve it! That horse was going to return to Mark, and I kept thinking, what if I 'break' her?  I remember a session riding with Karen Rohlf and Karen was explaining connection with the reins.  She took a feel of Easter's bridle on the ground, and with surprise, said 'Wow, that is light'.  It is all Mark's doing, I replied, I am just trying to keep it that way.

At the end of my year at Parelli, I returned Easter to Mark, hugely grateful for this wonderful mare and a fabulous gift of learning.  By then, we were doing most of the higher level tasks in the Parelli program, and Finesse was definitely our best savvy.  Mark liked what I did with her, he saw the bond we had developed, and he told me we had done well together and she had to be my horse... he would keep her until I could come back to give her a home. Six months later, we met in Connecticut and I took her home for good. Now 21, Easter is retired from riding due to old scarring in her legs from the damage done to her earlier in life and resulting arthritis, but I still play with her on the ground. She is a wonderful friend and partner, the lead mare in my small herd and a reminder of all I have accomplished in my journey.  Today she takes on a new aura as she carries Mark's memory and the full meaning of the gifts he left me before moving on.  Did I ever really thank him?

My last visit with Mark was at a clinic in Florida in 2014.  I still remember his smile and warm hug as we finally reconnected, and I spent the weekend watching him teach and ride.  We joked and reminisced about past days and mishaps, and I intently watched and listened as he shared his extensive knowledge.  I told him I thought I had finally learned enough to begin understanding what he was teaching!  He laughed at that.

At one point, he was riding a student's horse and no one was paying any attention to him or to what he was doing, least of all the owner.  The horse carried many physical and emotional scars from years of poor riding and handling, and Mark was softly and patiently working through the tensions to help him relax, find a better posture, soften, while explaining what he felt.  He did that so well, he knew how to restore a horse to health and comfort.

Later in the day, I asked him if it bothered him at all that everyone seemed so uninterested and disrespectful. He smiled and said 'I am here and this is what I do.  Not everyone is here to learn.  But you are here to learn.  So it is all good.'  What a lesson!  As a coach and teacher myself, how could I find that grounding and forgiveness in myself, and be able to be genuinely humble and loving in the presence of less than stellar students?  Knowing that we all have our own journey and that it is not be measured by who is doing what at the time.  Another gift.  I promised I would find a way to see him again.  Then life happened and I could not keep my promise.  Now he is gone.

Mark will remembered fondly and his beautiful spirit lives on. I will cherish Easter girl until she is ready to leave this world as one of the greatest gift I got from Mark. Without him and her I would not be where I am, I would not be the horsewoman I have become. They taught me a lot. I will cherish all my memories of times spent with Mark and Hela, in New England, in Tennessee, in Florida. Farewell Mark, we love you, we hope to make you proud as you watch from the heavens.

Hela is left with a farm full of animals and horses, medical bills, and the grief of losing a husband unexpectedly.  Mark Russell passionately, progressively and uncompromisingly worked to become a remarkable horseman. He was a teacher whose communication skills transcended the horse and made him a respected, sought after clinician worldwide. His work inspired horses and horse lovers, "the whole is greater than the sum of its parts".

The impact of his immediate loss to the horse world is profound, as is the hardship for his family that will be felt far into the future. We are coming together to show our support for a man who has changed the lives of so many of us forever. 

Because of all the generous donations, Hela and her friends will be able to keep producing more of Mark's work. That is a blessing. Thank you for everyone that has contributed so generously, and if you would like to contribute, but have not had a chance to do so, that would be wonderful!

If you would like to donate to this fund, click here.

You don't dance by forcing your partner into movements

Dressage should serve the horse, not the horse serve dressage

Sit on your horse like a champagne bubble

Any retraction of the reins leads to compression, not collection

Mark Russell

What does YOUR journey to savvy look like? The power of doing simple things with excellence and having support

Earlier this year, I launched a brand new distance group coaching format which has drawn attention from students around the world.  Ever since I started teaching Parelli 10 years ago, I have always wanted to be able to follow students on their journey for more than a couple of days at a time.  Clinics are certainly fun and I love to see the changes in people and horses that can be achieved on only a couple of days;  they also foster new friendships and a sense of community.  However, once everyone goes home,  the instructor might not see or hear from those students again for months if not years, and we can only hope that they have felt inspired enought to continue seeking more knowledge.  I always felt a bit disheartened to see the same people come back year after year and look exactly the same as the year before.  Why were they not progressing?  

Looking in the mirror at my own horsemanship, I reflected on those times where I was not making progress and at the obstacles I had to face to keep advancing my skills and my horses.  Like most students, I don't have my own facility and I have to contend with the constraints of boarding.  In order to be allowed to be different, I have in the last few years resorted to boarding my horses at small, privately owned facilities which are open to a Parelli mindset.  That freedom to do the kind of horsemanship I want to do often comes with lack of training facilities, no indoor arena, small spaces to ride and having to contend with weather conditions - challenges that most of my students also face daily.

Isolation is another factor we all experience unless we can be lucky enough to be surrounded by like minded professionals or friends.  Keeping the motivation alive and managing pitfalls can be challenging without support, even in the best of times.  Compounded with factors involving weather, time, timing, availability and just plain lack of focus or goals, this can be a steep hill to climb even for the most dedicated rider, especially when it means finding time away from work or familly, having to get in the car and commute to the barn!

So with that in mind, I created a group distance coaching format which is designed to address these issues.  

Students have joined from all walks of life, ages and stages.  From beginner to Level 4 students, some as far as the UK and Australia, it has been a diverse yet incredibly fun group of aspiring horsewomen (and now even a gentleman!) sharing and supporting each other while being guided and instructed through various horsemanship concepts and assignments.

The key to J2S Your Journey to SavvyTM is that everyone is on their own journey and while guided, is allowed to progress at their own speed and level.  The primary rule is a good attitude, natural, positive and progressive, and we also try to have fun as we learn.

We celebrate our accomplishments and breakthroughts, and help those who are in the Learning Pit see what is on the other side of the wall.

It has been absolutely wonderful for me as an instructor to see students actually gaining depth and scope into the program, improving their relationships with their horses and getting more and more savvy each month!

Here are a couple fun pics and videos of current J2S members and what they have to say about their journey.

Melody (Brandon, Manitoba) started out in the middle of a harsh Canadian winter in the Prairies. She was still recovering from a major horseback riding accident which left her physically impaired and scared to ride.  But mostly, she had to come to terms with the fact that she did not understand why her horses did not act like partners. This is her third J2S class and to quote:  "I have attended many clinics and ridden in many places -- BC, SK, MB, ND, CA -- but I learned to learn in J2S and it has completely changed my horsemanship."   She has started to ride again, with savvy, and after almost getting out of horses altogether, is now having a great time with her four equines.  Here is fun movie she made of her Haltering with Savvy assignment.

Karen (Nova Scotia) has been a long time Parelli student, but her new partner Java, a young LBE, caused her to seek more regular support.  His playful and dominant nature constrasted sharply with her RBI Humanality.  Through distance coaching and a dedication to studying the program, Karen has made huge strides with her young horse and they are now having a lot of fun together.  Check out her dragging an object project video after I challenged her to teach Java something purposeful and interesting. 

"For me, this J2S class has all been about inspiration. I am able to put all the other key words together when I am inspired by watching each of us learn and grow with our equine partners, share BFO's that hit us in the middle of the night, post triumphs, a few set backs and then more triumphs, and all under the excellent guidance of Geneviève who allows us to take this journey exactly as each of us needs to. That's Inspiration!!"

Sandra and Mariya (Melbourne, Ontario) are a mother and daughter team and Sandra has been a Parelli student for many years. She had however never really taken instruction from a Licensed Parelli Instructor, and was having trouble keeping Mariya interested in riding and playing with her pony Ginger.  I visited their farm a couple of times in 2015 and Mariya's interest started rising.  

In Mariya's words:  "When Geneviève came to Ontario last year, I hardly ever played with my pony.  I was unmotivated and going backwards.  After my first lesson, things changed. I started playing with Ginger at least once a week.   After my second and third lessons, I became motivated and confident about riding again."

Both then joined my distance coaching programs, and are now enjoying a lot of great horse time together.  

Mariya has started riding again and passed her Level 1 with flying colors last fall (L1++).  She is just about ready to submit Level 2 On Line.  This video of Sandra and Mariya made the Parelli social media pages and was their take on an assignement which instructed them to do something fun and imaginative with their horses!

Lisa (Rodney, Ontario) has always dreamed of having a great connection with her mare Derby.  Her little Appaloosa is 21 years old and has been there and done that, and she is a great, safe, steady riding horse.  However, for years, she showed no interest in her human partner and would leave when Lisa showed up.  Through lessons and distance coaching, Lisa learned how to motivate Derby to find her and catch her, and then to connect and want to stay.  For Lisa, this is a dream come through.  Derby will now seek her and catch her from way back in the pasture, leave the herd and the hay to be with her human partner. As a bonus, she is now exhibiting a lot more expressive behavior during their play sessions and offering lots, rather than just being submissive and obedient.

Says Lisa:  "Went out to the pasture this afternoon to bring Derby in for our foot picking project and all the horses were down at the bottom of the pasture . I called Derby and she lifted her head and started walking towards me. Then she started trotting and she trotted the whole way up the pasture to me ... at the front of the whole herd!!!! Trotting !!!! TO ME !!!! Derby !!!! How extremely awesome is that???"

Our next instalment of J2S Your Journey to SavvyTM will be revamped this spring and be centered on the 12 Touchstones of horsemanship.  For me as an instructor, it has been so much fun watching these students grow and learn throughout the year, even during the winter months where we focus on small but important tasks that to keep improving their feel, timing and balance, and their overall relationships with their horses.  By having them study with me consistently for several months, I am able to get to know them, coach and support them through highs and lows, and really see them blossom.  There is nothing more rewarding that that for a coach!

Your Journey to SavvyTM is a group distance coaching program spanning four months and run by Geneviève Benoit, Licensed Parelli 3-Star Instructor.  Students from all over the world gather to share their journey, celebrate their achievements and support each other.  Check out the student video from the first class in 2015!

Find out more information at www.vifargent.com/yourjourneytosavvy or on Facebook www.facebook.com/yourjourneytosavvy

Announcing the third edition of J2S - Your Journey to Savvy Group Distance Coaching Program!

Announcing the third edition of the very popular J2S Your Journey to Savvy Group Distance Coaching Program! 

Stay motivated and progressive through the winter months, with support from a Licensed Parelli 3 Star Instructor and a community of like-minded students.

Registrations are now open, four different packages to choose from. Class starts November 1st! Check out the details in on www.vifargent.com/yourjourneytosavvy

WHY

This guided distance coaching program was designed to answer many of my students’ and my own challenges with learning the Parelli program at home.  Many of us feel the need to break through the feeling of isolation, have fun, stay progressive, keep the motivation alive and find ways to continue advancing despite weather, facility or time constraints.  The program will provide accountability and consistency, which are key to reaching your horsemanship objectives.  It is built to help you stay focused, stay on track, spark your imagination and inspire new ideas through regular homework, consistent help and support from a Licensed Parelli Professional, as well as opportunities to connect, share and celebrate your achievements with other members of the group.

WHAT

This is a unique group coaching and support program which does not require you to leave home and allows you to learn under the guidance of a Licensed Parelli Professional; it also provides access to a community of like-minded aspiring natural horsemen and women.  Through homework, weekly group meetings and coaching, you will be able to keep advancing your skills, stay inspired and motivated and share your experience and successes with other students in the program.

Your questions will be answered and you will no longer find yourself ‘stuck’ with no idea on how to start moving forward again.  The homework and challenges will spark your imagination, help you develop your leadership and deepen your relationship with your horse.

It can be done anywhere, anytime and only requires a commitment to learn and the desire to participate (… and an Internet connection).

If your horse is recreation for you, can you be recreation for your horse?

You are not alone!  Join us to stay motivated and get support on your journey to excellence!

Join our Facebook Page for announcements and more student testimonials

Cactus, Cattle and Cowboys Fair Spotlight with Blue Moon and Menina

Here is the video of my spotlight at the fair last weekend with Blue Moon and Menina. There was a lot of noise and commotion, we were competing with tractors, generators, draft teams, the horse show in the adjoining ring and a live band on stage! I had to redub the music because the audio track was so bad... Both mares were superstars, I am so proud of them! ‪#‎Parelli‬‪#‎Horsemanship‬ ‪#‎Instructor‬ ‪#‎HorsesLiberty‬ 

June news and new 2015 clinic schedule - Nouvelles de juin et nouveau calendrier des formations 2015

Clinic schedule in Ontario for 2015 and an update on the Weekend with Pat Parelli in Quebec.
To read the whole newsletter, click here http://conta.cc/1GpOQL1

Calendrier des formations 2015 en Ontario et nouvelles du Weekend avec Pat Parelli au Québec.
Pour lire toute l'infolettre, cliquez ici http://conta.cc/1GpOQL1

February News and Updates - Nouvelles et mises à jour de février

In the news for this month:
The Parelli Intensive Foundation Clinic now a 3 part series, a Pat Parelli clinic, and more learning opportunities!  Check out our updated event schedule.

Click here to read February's newsletter

Les nouvelles de février:
Le Stage Intensif est maintenant une série de trois formations, un stage avec Pat Parelli et de nouveaux évènements! Voyez notre cendrier des évènements à venir.

Cliquez ici pour lire l'info-lettre de février

For the first time, a weekend with Pat Parelli in Carignan, Quebec

For the first time, Pat Parelli will be coming to Quebec and presenting a 2 day clinic!

A weekend with Pat Parelli May 30th-31st in Carignan, Québec.

It's official! Pat #Parelli will be in Quebec May 30th-31st for the first time EVER! Pat will be presenting the Parelli program and coaching riders on their problems with horses. 

Come as a spectator or apply to take your very own lesson with Pat Parelli. A few lucky riders and their horse will have the opportunity to have a 3 hour private lesson with Pat to expose and solve common behavior problems.

In addition, 10 tickets will be auctionned for a private dinner with Pat hosted Saturday night, with all profits going to the Parelli Education Institute. This is HUGE! 

Tickets on sale now, best price and rider applications before March 13th. 

I have personally dreamed of this for the last 15 years. Click below for info and to get your tickets.

Information, tickets and rider applications here 
http://www.lesencansdechevauxcarignan.com/horse-clinics.html

Key to Success No. 7 SUPPORT

Right at the beginning of his Natural Horsemanship book, Pat Parelli introduces his Level 1 theory by outlining the six keys to success.  They are:  Attitude, Knowledge, Tools, Techniques, Time and Imagination. Since the original publication of the book years ago, a seventh key has been added:  Support. 

In my earlier posts, we focused on the first six keys:  Attitude, Knowledge, Tools, Techniques, Time and Imagination.  In this post, I will introduce the last key to success, SUPPORT.  This one is truly one of the most important one of all!

Key 7: SUPPORT

As in any long term project that requires motivation, commitment, thoughtful planning and perspiration, the support of like-minded people who are on a similar journey becomes critical in allowing horsemanship students to continue advancing, keep on track, and as needed, to find encouragement and inspiration.

When I started on my natural horsemanship journey in 1999, it was definitely the path less traveled. In fact, only a very small handful of people in my part of the world had heard of this new approach to horses and for the most part, we were ridiculed, shunned and basically considered too different to be part of the ‘in’ crowd. It was a lonely journey and I found myself connecting to other like-minded students mostly through various Internet groups and communities around the world. With no instructors nearby and no access to the technology resources we have today, it was a journey of trial and error and it was often very frustrating. It took grit to stay on track and keep going despite the criticism, the failures and the obstacles. This was a time when showing up at an English barn with a rope halter was a big No-No, and no one really understood why we ever wanted to play with a horse on the ground.

Thankfully, things have evolved in the last ten years and there is a growing interest for natural horsemanship methods and the importance of building a sound partnership with the horse. Natural horsemanship students are still a minority, but we are a growing minority, and with an increasing number of prominent members who are succeeding in competitive circles, the likelihood of being dismissed as ‘only good for people who don’t ride’ is subsiding.

Athletes such as Canadian Lauren Barwick, 4-Star Parelli Senior Instructor and Paralympian, who has been to 3 Paralympic Games, 4 World Championships and a great number of other international competitions; Lauren most recently claimed Silver and Bronze at WEG in Normandy and gives inspiring demonstrations with her dressage horses all over the world.

Click here for a short video of Lauren demonstrating horsemanship savvy with her Paralympic mare Off to Paris.

Luis Lucio is head of the Spanish dressage team and has recently been appointed to the FEI. He has been a long time friend of Linda and Pat Parelli and integrates natural horsemanship methods into his training program; in fact, Luis lists Parelli Natural Horsemanship right at the top of his home page. Click below to watch a video of Luis Lucio riding Grand Prix movements with nothing on his horse’s head.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9kt-JuqJtZA&feature=youtu.be

Luca Maria Moneta is an international show jumper from Italy and a long time student of the Parelli approach who is making his mark worldwide as a successful competitor. Luca has been dubbed the ‘carrot man’ after he explained in an interview how he won a puissance class at the European Championships by rewarding his horse’s try with a carrot after each successful jump.

In the Western world, one of Pat Parelli’s top students, Elli Pospsichil, just finished in the Top 15 at NCHA Cutting World Finals in Fort Worth, Texas.

So what does this have to do with support? Well, these very inspirational people all have something in common: they did not achieve their results alone. They have sought and enlisted a lot of support and when they need help to resolve an issue or find a better way, they don’t hesitate to go to someone who is more masterful than they are to get help. Linda Parelli regularly teaches Luis and Luca, Elli studies full-time with Pat Parelli and Lauren has spent many days and hours with the Parelli’s to hone her skills and figure out her complex horses. They think up, not sideways, in everything they do, including when the time comes to find a mentor.

Nowadays, there is no reason to feel alone in your backyard or at your barn trying to learn. There are Licensed Parelli Professionals available worldwide who have dedicated their lives to helping students reach their goals; most of them offer many different teaching formats, in person or through distance coaching. They can help point you in the right direction, find the resources you need, get unstuck and support you through your journey.

In addition, the Parelli Program is underpinned by a robust subscription based training support system. If you want to achieve measurable and sustained improvement in your horsemanship skills, consider a Parelli Membership Plan a pre-requisite to that progress. The Parelli members club is gathering a vast community of horse lovers and giving them access to a huge Learning Library available on line to support students on their pathway.

Finally, there are play groups and natural horsemanship communities popping up everywhere, even in far away places like Africa and Indonesia. If you reach out, you may find there several more like-minded horsemanship students near you just waiting to find a buddy and have play dates! Or start you own support group, organize a few simple activities and you might be surprised who shows up! We even have communities of students who are spread out in different countries and meet through Skype and video to challenge and support each other. A great example of key no. 6, Imagination, at work.

What are you going to do in 2015 to find or build your support network and reach for your horsemanship goals?

Wishing everyone a very Happy Holiday Season and lots of great horse days in 2015! As always, keep it natural!

You enjoyed this article?  Let us know by submitting your comments and feel free to share with your friends!

For more info on Parelli training, visit www.vifargent.com

Your Journey To Savvy - A Guided Group Learning Program at Home to Advance Your Parelli Journey

Announcing Your Journey To SavvyTM - A Guided Group Learning Program at Home to Advance Your Parelli Journey.

Learn * Experience * Share * Achieve * Celebrate

This program was designed to answer many of my students’ and my own challenges with learning the Parelli program at home.  Many of us feel the need to break through the feeling of isolation, have fun, stay progressive, keep the motivation alive and find ways to continue advancing despite weather, facility or time constraints.  The program will provide accountability and consistency, which are key to reaching your horsemanship objectives.  It is built to help you stay focused, stay on track, spark your imagination and inspire new ideas through regular homework, consistent help and support from a Licensed Parelli Professional, as well as opportunities to connect, share and celebrate your achievements with other members of the group.

Starts January 1st, 2015

For more information or to sign up, visit www.vifargent.com/yourjourneytosavvy

Décembre 2014 - Voeux des Fêtes, idées de cadeaux, évènements à venir, rabais sur les forfaits de leçons d'hiver, et encore plus!

2014 se termine, réaliser vos objectifs, idées de cadeaux et un nouveau départ en 2015!

Cliquez ici pour lire l'info-lettre

Cliquez ici pour voir le diaporama de ma revue de l'année 2014

Au plaisir de vous revoir en 2015!

December News - Wrapping up 2014, achieving your goals, gift ideas and looking ahead to 2015!

Holiday Greetings, Gift Ideas, Upcoming Events, Winter Lesson Special and more!  

Click here to read the newsletter

Click here to see a slideshow of my year in review

See you in 2015!

November News - Winter lesson specials and Early Bird rates for the Parelli Intensive Foundation Clinic (and more!)

November newsletter - Winter specials and EB rates for the 2015 #Parelli Intensive Foundation Clinic (and more!) 

In this month's news:

• Horseless Workshops
• Winter lesson package specials
• Registration opens for the 2015 Parelli Intensive Foundation Clinic - Early Bird rates
• Rider Biomechanics training
• In the press...
• Savvy Tip of the Month
• Quote of the Month
• Items for sale
• About Covey Hill Farm

Click here to read the newsletter

Info-lettre de novembre - Leçons à petit prix pour la période hivernale et tarifs Early Bird pour le Stage Intensif Parelli 2015 (et plus!) 

Dans les nouvelles ce mois-ci:

• Ateliers sans chevaux 
• Forfait de leçons d'hiver à petit prix
• Les inscriptions sont ouvertes pour le Stage Intensif Parelli 2015 - tarifs Early Bird
• Cours de biomécanique du cavalier
• Le conseil Savvy du mois
• La citation du mois
• Articles à vendre
• La Ferme Covey Hill

Cliquez ici pour lire l'info-lettre

Join us for the 2015 Parelli Intensive Foundation Clinic!

Join us for the 2015 Parelli Intensive Foundation Clinic in Havelock, Quebec!

7 Games, 4 Levels, 4 Savvys! Are you ready?

Announcing the 2015 Parelli Intensive Foundation Clinic with Geneviève Benoit, 3 Star Instructor, and assistant junior instructors (TBA). Dates:  June 28^th to July 2^nd, 2015. 

5 days of intensive Parelli led by a top notch instructor and graduate of Pat Parelli’s Mastery program - this is THE event for dedicated students who are aiming for excellence!   

Are you a dedicated Parelli student ready to move forward? Are you looking for an opportunity to participate in a week of intense learning with an experienced instructor, without having to travel across the continent?

This event is an opportunity to get in-depth coaching and immerse yourself in the Four Savvys with an aim to reach for Levels 3 and 4.

The format of this clinic has been completely revisited with the primary objective being to ensure the participants receive much more individual attention. Attendance is limited to 10 riders.

The first afternoon will consist in theory, and each of the next four days will begin with a remuda - a get together for discussion and Q&A. You will then spend the rest of the day in group learning sessions with your horse! You will also be assigned homework every day: watching a DVD, reading an article or any other assignment to help reinforce your learning.

The last afternoon will be dedicated to focused lessons, which will be observed and commented by all the participants.

Minimum requirements for participants with a horse are Level 2 completed (blue string) and able to ride your horse in a group. 

Gallery students are an integral part of all theory and simulation sessions, and get to observe and comment all riding sessions.  There are no prerequisites for Gallery students.

EARLY BIRD RATES IN EFFECT UNTIL JANUARY 31ST FOR RIDERS AND GALLERY STUDENTS

Rider spots will be awarded on a first come, first serve basis! A 50% non refundable deposit is required to reserve your spot.

Covey Hill Farm is a beautiful private facility in Southern Quebec, set on 250+ acres of sloping terrain at the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains.  The property features a gorgeous indoor arena with professional footing, a state-of-the-art barn featuring large airy stalls, hot and cold water wash bay, large pastures and lots of space to play!  We are also building an outdoor playground.  The private lake is a short walk away for a refreshing swim on a hot day.  Covey Hill is adjacent to the US border and Upstate New York, an easy trip from Plattsburg and Burlington.  It is 45 minutes south of Montreal, Vaudreuil and St-Lazare, and a short drive from Ottawa, Cornwall and Bromont/Knowlton.

Click here for pictures of the facility https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153356160404778.1073741842.207591719777&type=3

There is a full service campground nearby as well as several other lodging options and we have a few RV spots available on the property.  The area has lots to offer for after hours dining or touring and to entertain your non horsy partner!

We look forward to seeing you there!

  

For more information about Geneviève, visit http://vifargent.com/meet-genevieve-benoit/

For more information, program, registration forms and documents, visit http://vifargent.com/parelli-intensive-foundation-camp/

Event page on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/events/749683901771686/ Or contact Geneviève Benoit, Licensed Parelli 3-Star Instructorwww.vifargent.com THE HORSE SOUND IN MIND AND BODY, NATURALLY!