Teresa Ramsey - Strasser Hoofcare Professional
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SPORT..
Classical focusat riding clinic
Leading German riding instructor Clinic host Teresa Ramsey of
Peter Speckmaier held riding clinics Hikutaia says students learned that
in Hikutaia and Thames last week, when ridden in the classical forward
teaching the Chiron method. jumping style, the horse is not
Riders from as far away as restrained before a jump and the
Rotorua, Albany and Te Aroha, as rider is not bouncing on the horse's
well as Paeroa riders took part in back.
the Chiron clinic, which taught the "For this reason, the horse is able
classical forward jumping style of to concentrate on the jump more,
riding as first discovered by Italian jump up to half a 'metre higher, and
military rider Caprilli in the early remain less distressed and sounder
1900s. and healthier long term.
Non-riding participants also "Horses also learn not to rush at
attended the clinic, which involved jumps and are nore willing and
intensive theory about equine happier to perform, making it much
anatomy, psychology and the nerv- easier and enjoyable for the horse
ous system as well as a practical and rider."
component. The Chiron style is also used to
Mr Speckmaier says the Chiron rehabilitate problem jumping hors
course teaches basic training and he es and equine muscle development,
was very pleased with the improve- particularly in the horse's back.
ments in the horses and riders over Mr Speckmaier is one of the few
the three days. qualified Chiron instructors in the
Chiron focuses on minimum inter- world, and was certified by the late
ference with the horse so it can bet- Rolf Becher, one of Germany's top
ter focus on the task and jump in a showjumping riders.
more natural style, he says. Mr Speckmaier, ,vho is also a certi
The students learned that many fied Strasser Hcofeare Examiner,
modern jumping methods involved also taught Chiron riding clinics
a two-point or light seat usually and hoofcare seminars in
combined with more contact with Christchurch before flying back to
the horse's mouth. Germany.
Mr Speckmaier says this is more He intends to visit New Zealand
suited for other codes of riding, such again next year for more clinics,
as endurance and trekking rather including an advanced Chiron
than jumping. course.