Course Reports:

Round Pen Training – Feb 2006

It was a brave and keen group who turned out at Ross Dhu Equestrian to attended the first ever course in Scotland to teach round pen techniques. On this bright but chilly day they listened dilligently and performed perfectly, putting into practise the theory on round pen training. This course, the first of many, was very well received and each student has kindly given their comments on the day:-

The Brave Attendees….!
“Brilliant Day! Thank you Morag, as ever there is always something else to learn!”

Elaine Allen

Great day, learned about hook up and loose schooling. I also learned how to talk with my horse in his language – a big surprise for us both! Opens up new avenues to explore. I would highly recommend it for horses and horse lovers alike!

Liz Farquhar

Brilliant day, thoroughly enjoyed both practical sessions. Mouse and I learned a lot and will put it all in to practice over the next few months. Lots to think about.

Gail Stewart

A very good day, interesting and well presented in a friendly atmosphere. Highlight was of course the practical, superbly directed by Morag.

Neil Farquhar

Students At Work!

After a morning of lectures on the theory and practise of round pen training, the students moved into the round pen to practise their theory on each other. Developing the correct techniques and placement is essential to ensure success with your equine partner. Once they had exhausted each other it was time to bring their equine instructors in from the field, getting to know their partner for the day. A quick break for lunch to fortify them against the biting wind, then it was out to the pen to put into practice what they had learned.

Once all of the students had worked their horses in the pen and gained their attention and trust, it was time to learn how to build on this trust and work their horses through their paces loose in the pen.

The combination of technique and voice commands blended with energy projection to control, as if by magic, their equine partners. The students learned the principles of loose schooling and the quality of movement expected by their horses when working in the pen.

This second session was much harder to master but all of the students performed brilliantly, working their horses through their paces with the greatest of ease. Well done everyone!