We at Ross Dhu Equestrian are delighted to announce that Mark Rashid will be visiting Scotland after an absence of 7 years!

 Mark will be holding four back to back two day clinics at Ross Dhu Equestrian in May 2012 running from 18th to 23rd.

 We are now taking applications for these clinics, the format for the clinics will be half day group sessions.  Mark will work with three riders in the morning and four in the afternoon over the each of the two day slots.  You will work in a group setting and we recommend that you be an intermediate or advanced rider to participate in these clinics.  (Intermediate would be capable of walk, trot and canter and be able to work with other horses in the arena.  We understand that you may wish to bring a remedial or young horse and we will strive to keep you in a group of similarly experienced riders).

The costs for the two day clinics will be £375 per rider and a non-refundable deposit of £150 to be received by 20 January 2012 is required in advance to secure your place.

Ross Dhu Equestrian can also offer limited overnight accommodation for horses.  This would be charged at the full livery rate of £10 per night and your horse would have an individual paddock for himself, or if convenient a stable companion or friends can share a paddock.

There will be catering facilities on site and auditors are most welcome.  The daily fee for auditing is £40 per day.  For those auditors wishing to watch for 3 days or more the fee will be reduced to £30 per day.  A deposit of £10 is required to secure an Auditor place, however we can also take entries on the day.

We request that auditors do not bring children under the age of 13 (unless they are attending the clinic).  All children must be supervised at all times as the resident horses are very sensitive to noise and high energy levels.

We also request that auditors do not bring dogs onto the yard as some resident horses have a fear or issues with dogs.

If you wish to attend as an auditor we request that you bring your own seating but guarantee that you will have a fantastic up close view of the arenas at all times.

Please fill out the form below and return with your deposit to:-

 Ross Dhu Equestrian

Sunnyside Farm

Sunnyside Road

Quarter

Larkhall

South Lanarkshire

ML9 1RB

Places may be full on your preferred days so please list optional dates.  Also, if all spaces are full we would be happy to put you down on the reserve rider list and we request that you be able to attend on short notice should one of the attendees pull out.

Deposits are non-refundable, however, in certain circumstances a partial refund may be given if you need to pull out at short notice and a reserve rider can be attend in your place.

MARK RASHID Clinic application form

 The launch of Equido in Spain is well underway with three students already starting Level 2.  A visit by Morag Higgins to the main Spanish Instructor Yuna McLister (yes she is from Scottish descent!!) and her assistant Instructor Marc earlier this year confirmed that the demand for this new and fresh approach to working with horses is now sweeping Spain. 

 “There are more and more people now wanting to sign up for the course,” said Yuna, “The word is definitely spreading”.  Morag Higgins watched the Spanish students go through their paces working in the round pen and was delighted by the standards demonstrated.  “The Spanish horses are such beautiful sensitive breeds that are a delight to work with and the students have learned so much about how to communicate with them.”

 Yuna and Marc will be joining the five Scottish Instructors at the Equido two day clinic in June this year, a great opportunity for students to meet them and exchange new and exciting ideas.

Here ae a few snapshots of Kim and David enjoying their training:-

Kim schooling Slipper.

At least this summer made Kim feel a little at home although I’m sure the sun was not as warm as he was used to.  Kim is a fabulous rider and really enjoyed the challenge of keeping Slipper Six Legs balanced and co-ordinated.  He learned a lot about feel and energy whilst working with the horse and managed to take this new found knowledge back with him to Spain where he has put it too good use backing and starting youngsters.  Well done Kim, we hope you will visit us again this year. 

The Spanish Stand Off (as opposed to Mexican!)

David dresses for the weather with sensible sun hat and cool clothes!  Here he meets his horse in the round pen for the first time and asks her to back away from him and prepare for work.  Equido is flexible in its approach to loose working a horse and it is up to the student to find a way to work with each individual in a way that the horse is comfortable with and happy.  This can sometimes mean a little experimenting to see what actually works.  After moving her around the pen, David asks his horse to join him in the middle and that they walk together as partners.

 This is great work from both of them and a fantastic experience for our Apprentice.  It just goes to show that horses speak the same language the world over and if we can learn a small part of that language then so much can be learned by both species.  At the end of the session David gives his horse a nice pat and rub as a a thank you for working with him and teaching him that day.

Thank you for being my teacher.

 We at Ross Dhu Equestrian would like to invite you to take a stroll through our life here with our wonderful teachers, the horses. 

All photographs are courtesy of Nikki de Kerf a fabulous photographer with an eye for the moment. 

As we all travel along life’s journey, we are given the opportunities to learn from very special individuals, not all of them are human and many we will not realise have taught us important lessons until they have passed on through. 

It is important to be at one with your environment and at peace with yourself, especially when eating!  Brogan is demonstrating that he does in fact have ribs you can see without the aid of an X-Ray machine!

When you are relaxed it takes the weight off your feet.  The resident herd and Ross Dhu Equestrian take this quite literally and find every opportunity to chill out on the soft standing.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We find that even those horses that had been retired still need to feel wanted and to have a job.  Toby is greatly loved by his mum and all here and even though he had been retired for a year he made it quite clear that his working days were not over, so with a little help from his friend David, Toby is now being brought back into very light work.  He eagerly awaits his turn at the long lining and is enjoying every moment.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Showing a flair for work is something, but often it is the most quiet moments that we miss with horses, the times when they are truly themselves and lost in their own thoughts.  One such moment was captured early one misty morning as a yearling wanders across the field watched by an audience of swallows.

 It is when horses are being horses that we get a special glimpse into their world.  What a privalage it is for us here to be able to observe and share such moments daily with our horses.  The trust shown by our residents humbles us as they willingly and openly let us into their world.  What a great job we have here!

We try as often as we can to take time to reflect on the tiniest details and discover the beauty that we often miss in our hectic lives.

Sometimes all we need to do is look at the world in a slightly different way and it is amazing what we can truly see!

After becoming sound he was re-introduced to the herd and immediately slotted himself into top position (he is a ladies man and the girls just love him, which suits the boys as they get peace and quiet!).  He has hopefully learned a vital lesson about keeping his legs well out of kick range and not annoying horses that don’t want to be annoyed!

Over the months he was brought back into work carefully and his training towards being a western horse began.  This is a real challenge for him as jogging is such an alien concept, but, he is getting there and although not the most comfortable in sitting trot, he is doing his best.  We will one day complete my challenge and enter a western pleasure class, the only ex-racing standard bred to do so!  

In the past Slipper had been a fabulous horse to hack out, eagerly taking lead file and happily going out alone.  However, in his last home a horrific accident happend as he and his rider were involved with a hit and run which left him lying in the road next to his unconscious rider!  Needless to say this really shook him up and his confidence (and rider’s confidence) were seriously dented.  This left Slipper with some issues about hacking out.  I had only just begun to help him regain his confidence out on a hack when he received his leg injury and so had not really managed to conquer his fear of people coming towards him, being in front, not spinning and running off, not planting and panicking etc!!

Now he was back into work and schooling well but still struggling out on hacks.  Even with a horse in front he would plant and start to walk backwards, not too alarming you might think but bearing in mind he has no sense of self preservation and we hack in a country park with some serious gullies, embankments and ravines it was quite nerve wracking.  He had in the past reversed over the edge of a very steep embankment and we had both nearly tumbled down to the bottom!!  However, when he planted, if he was given a quick pull forwards from another rider (bridle or reins or whatever they could grab) he would start on his merry way again.  Slowly but surely his confidence was returning.

One of my clients competes in endurance riding and she suggested it might be fun to do a nice pleasure ride with Slipper.  I thought about his potential planting and wasn’t so sure but knowing that I would be surrounded by experienced riders I agreed to give it a go.  I talked to one of my liveries and she was really excited about doing this with her 20 something mare, a real auntie type horse who was a go anywhere do anything maniac!

So both Andrea and I set off with Sophie and Slipper to Scottish Endurance Riding Club event in Hoddam, Dumfrieshire.  We arrived on time looking every bit the complete novice and were immediately impressed by the relaxed friendly welcoming atmosphere with a real sense of camaraderie.  Everyone was so helpful to us, the stewards, the organisers, the vets, the other competitors (we must have looked lost and desperate).  Our experienced friends had been held up and Andrea suggested we just have a go ourselves!  I was really bricking it now!  I had never had to read a map in my life, my horse might not go more than a few hundred yards and here we were preparing to set off on a 19km hack in unknown territory!  I was really worried that all the pressure would be on poor Andrea and Sophie to give us

We made the first checkpoint!!!!

a lead and keep us going.  I needn’t have worried.  Slipper had been so relaxed since he came off the box he was just so happy to be going somewhere.  We set off as lead file and he led virtually the whole 19km, with his little ears up and a really confident step.  There were a handful of “oh I’m not so sure” moments when auntie Sophie had to come along side and lead for a few yards then his confidence would come flooding back and off he would go again.

When it came to a section to be ridden through open countryside and fields (I dare not think how big the fields were) Andrea and I were really worried.  I had never ridden Slipper in an open field and had no idea what he would do and Sophie is a maniac in an open space, her usual routine is to snatch the reins from the rider’s hands and leg it up the field as fast and she can go!  Obviously Andrea did not want to be responsible for the potential carnage this sort of behaviour might cause with me and Slipper and she gamely hung on to Sophie and kept her in walk for the 2 – 3 miles of open fields.  Sophie was disgusted and champed at the bit, foamed at the mouth and rolled her eyes in fury, but they held it together.  Slipper on the otherhand did not seem to notice that we were on open countryside and happily strolled along taking in the view!

You go first Slipper!!

Then there was the short section on a road with traffic.  This was a really scary moment.  Sophie is not good in traffic either but thank goodness for the fantastic members of SERC who were stationed along the route at strategic points and who were controlling the traffic.  I told them the problem and they smiled reassuringly and told me they would make sure every car would be very slow and careful and they were true to their word.  Andrea and I agreed we would just go for it and set off at a spanking trot.  Slipper was a star, staying in lead and ignoring the cars and vans creeping past him.  To say we were relieved when we were off road again would be an understatement!

Ok let's go!

We did raise a few incredulous looks and quiet smiles at our completely novice innocence at one of the checkpoints.  There is always water etc available to horses (and as we thought) riders along the route and when one steward offered me an old plastic milk carton of water I politely started to drink as did Andrea.  I noticed the look of  horror on the stewards face as she quietly explained that the water was to be poured over the horse to cool them down!  I didn’t want to ask where the water had come from!  Needless to say I didn’t pour water over Slipper, this would have been too much for him to cope with as he simply cannot stand rain!

This is my water!!!

We finally made it back (a minor miracle in itself considering I was navigating!) in a very good time of 3hrs.  We did not get placed but did manage to get a rosette for completing the course, a very nice gesture for all competitors to help them with their confidence.  I was as stiff as a board, the old knees not being what they used to be, and realised I had done more rising trot that morning than I had done in years (being a western rider I sit to all my trots) but both Andrea and I were delighted and the horses, though tired, seemed to really enjoy themselves. 

Andrea and I will certainly do this again as it was such good fun.  I was worried about how Slipper felt about it, I wasn’t sure if it would put him off.  The next morning I was cleaning the horsebox and Slipper was watching me intently from the field.  I wondered if he would disappear off down the field away from potential work, but, much to my surprise he wandered off, collected Sophie and they both came to the gate with a “Where are we going today” look on their faces.  Here’s hoping they enjoy the next event as much!

Slipper brave pants!!!

Slipper and Sophie Do It Again!

Well guys, looks like we have got the bug!  Yes Slipper and Sophie are just back from yet another big adventure, this time in Maybole.  It was absolutely fantastic and we are both so proud of ourselves and the horses, they were outstanding.  Slipper has kept up his brave pants routine and led the route for most of the way.  I would occasionally let him go behind Sophie and give her a chance in front but he wasn’t scared of anything and was really up for the challenge.  He even did some really great canter work in the open fields and tracks of the hillside and forest we were riding through and because we could crack on a bit we were both back to base inside the time allowed, our speed down to 2hrs and 12mins!  We are now planning our next adventure and I really think that Slipper has found something he can do very well.  What a great wee guy.

Coming from Scotland we were puzzled by the blue sky that did not seem to have any rain clouds whatsoever and a strange glowing disc that beat down with heat and bright light!!!!  We were later informed that this was in fact the sun!  Mark and Crissi very kindly agreed to pick us up at the airport and even  volunteered to take care of us for the two weeks we were there, they obviously had no idea what they had let themselves in for and in fact they probably both now need counselling or therapy of some kind!!

The clinic format was very informal with an equal amount of time being spent on each student and each individual was given a chance to work on their own issues or problems at their own pace.  There was no pressure put on anyone and this really helped us nervous students build our confidence and achieve our goals.  Mark and Crissi would start off each day with groundwork exercises for humans!  Because, as we all know, the horses were not the ones with the problems!!  Fascinating exercises were given which really enlightened all of the students on how the horse feels about their relationship with us and how we can make things simpler for them to understand and make their lives much easier.  It was a reall eye opener for all and great fun to work with a human partner who was more than able to let you know exactly how they felt when too much force was applied!  We all listened intently and worked on what was being taught.  Mark demonstrated how very little energy can achieve a great deal.  It was a great opportunity to feel how subtle we can be with our communication if we really set our minds to it.  It can also be a bit of an eye opener when we realise how loud we are actually being with our horses. 

After our exercises we were invited to tack up our horses and put into practise what we had learned.  I had the privilage of riding Mark and Crissi’s horses and they were absolutely fantastic.  My first mount was Tuff a stunning little dun quarter horse who was light and sensitive and eager to please.  It was very, very hot (even for the Colorado natives!) so lots of water was required as well as frequent breaks for both horses and riders.  I have never drank so much water in my life!  I have been thoroughly detoxed!!  Tuff was exceptional and a real gentleman, he helped me fine tune my riding and apply all that I had hoped I had taken in from the groundwork exercises.

Tuff and I worked together for the next two days and he really helped me develop my feel. 

 On the third day we had a go at working with cattle.  That was great fun!  I have worked with cattle in Scotland (always on the ground and with lots of “hoosh calvie, hoosh calvie, hoosh, hoosh, hoosh” which usually works (especially if you are armed with a bucket of feed)!  The cattle were very good quality Aberdeen Angus so they understood my accent straight away!  They were poised ready for action, not really enjoying the heat of the day!  I decided on a master plan to encourage them to work for us.  Crissi and I bribed them

 with cabbage leaves and other tasty bovine treats, not only did this wake them up but definitely put us on their good side which is always the best side to be when dealing with Aberdeen Angus!  Once all the bribes were gone we mounted up and worked those cows.  It was great fun, the horses really enjoyed themselves and we learned so much about pressure and pressure release as cattle will let you know very quickly when you have applied just a bit too much!  The sight of five Angus galloping down the arena is quite impressive and we thankfully did not do this too often!

Just when we thought we were doing rather well Mark and Crissi decided to put us up to a challenge, they gave us an obstacle course to drive the cattle around!  What was super about the whole experience was the fact that we were so focused on working the cattle we were giving our horses soft cues, doing half pass, full pass, half pirouette etc without even thinking.  It was a real eye opener when we realised as riders we truly lacked focus, but give us a bunch of cows and the focus was there!

Having moved cattle around on horseback there is something to be said about how easy it can be.  I don’t know why it is not done more often in this country although I do know that many hill farmers use ponies and dogs to work sheep.  I truly enjoyed the experience and learned a lot about myself, my horse and my riding.

It was not all work, work, work, the food was absolutely out of this world and we certainly had plenty of it.  After lunch I would retire to a cool spot under a tree and prop myself up with a bottle of water!

I also had the privilege of riding another of Mark’s horses, a Mustang called Zuni.  Zuni was named after a Native American tribe and was perhaps one of the best horses I have ever ridden.  I took to him straight away and he was such a patient and willing teacher that I simply cannot thank him enough for what he taught me. 

All of the students were asked what they would like to achieve/work on during the week and I wanted to work on piaffe and canter half pass.  Crissi had been teaching me how to achieve piaffe without the use of a schooling stick and we had been practising on my own horse Brogan.  Zuni and I worked through most of the week on lightening the trot and maintaining the impulsion.  We achieved canter half pass and almost at the end of the week he gave me a beautiful light, soft, feathery piaffe.  It felt fantastic as he almost disappeared beneath me, his feet barely touching the ground.  What a fabulous guy.

I was delighted with what we had achieved in our ridden work and he taught me so much, thank you Zuni. 

Not all the work was ridden, we were all given the choice of doing ‘homework’ each day as thought provoking exercises were given to the class.   Some of us became really lost in thought and when we presented our homework the next day there was some really fascinating ideas and concepts brought up by the group as each of us viewed the homework from a different perspective. 

This sort of exercise was really helpful to all of the students by encouraging them to ‘think outside the box’ and with such a friendly relaxed atmosphere no one was afraid of ‘looking silly’ and spoke honestly from their hearts.

At the end of the day it was time for the horses to go back to their corall for a well earned rest, Zuni like to have a short drink from his favourite trough before retiring for the night!

One of the highlights of this fantastic trip was the honour and privilege of being allowed to ride Crissi’s own horse, her beloved Jack.  A fabulous ‘Foxtrotter’ one of the gaited breeds of horses.  I had never ridden a gaited horse before and was absolutely blown away by this little guy, he was fantastic, so smooth and sharp and responsive, not an incling of his 20 something plus years!

What a great little horse, really fast and easy going.  I know all you guys out there now shouting at me because I don’t have a hat on!  It was an impromptu opportunity and when in Rome so to speak!  (Please note that we did not break the speed limit of 40mph as we flitted round the arena)!

This has been an absolutely fantastic opportunity for me to study and learn from two of the best trainers in the world.  I am so grateful for having this opportunity and to be able to pass on to my students a little something more than I could before.  I will continue to train and study with both Mark and Crissi’s guidance and hopefully I will be able to achieve the absolute harmony that comes so naturally to both these fantastic horsepeople.

NEW CLINIC DATES  13 – 15 April 2012, 14th and 15th July 2012 and 8th and 9th September 2012

 The next full two day clinic teaching the innovative and unique Equido ethos will be held on:- 

Our top team of Equido Instructors will be available throughout the clinics to help you develop your equine skills.  Topics to be covered are:-

 Groundwork Communication

Working your Horse in the Round Pen

Groundwork Communication/Practical Application

Long lining/Trying Something New

How to Load Your Horse Safely and Sensibly

Basic and Advanced Ridden Work On Flat

Basic and Advanced Jumping Techniques

Bareback Riding

All ages and standard of riding are welcome as are all styles.  The Equido Instructors are well trained in both English and Western riding techniques and can offer their assistance in most Equestrian disciplines.

 Costs for the two day courses are:-  £60 for one day and £100 for two.  

 To book your place or for further information please contact:-

 Morag Higgins – Tel 01698 886 492 Mob: 07979741672

 CLINIC REPORT FOR 4TH AND 5TH OF JUNE 2011

CLINIC REPORT FOR 13TH AND 14TH OF JUNE 2011

CLINIC REPORT FOR 1ST AND 2ND OF AUGUST 2011 

This was our first clinic to be held on Bute and it was a huge sucess with fabulous work being carried out by all the students, the horses and the instructors.  The local newspaper was on hand to report the event:-

Due to popular demand Equido are offering an intensive study week to allow students to graduate in Level 1.  We are also trialing our first Level 2 Fast Track Course.  This will be split into three one week courses with the first six modules being covered in the first week.

We hope that this will allow those students in full time employment to be able to gain their qualification during their annual leave.  The study week will be inclusive of all training, examinations, course materials etc and lunch will be provided each day.  Local Bed and Breakfast Accommodation is available a short drive away and we are happy to provide space for tents for those rough, tough hardy types!  There is also limited in house accommodation for those students who have no transport.

For local accommodation we can recommend:-

Clyde Valley Cottages, Cornsilloch Farm Courtyard, Dalserf, By Larkhall, South Lanarkshire, ML9 2UA

Tel: 01698 889 021

e-mail: christiana7uk@btinternet.com

LEVEL ONE FAST TRACK

NEXT STUDY WEEKS COMMENCING 

February 13th 2012

March 19th 2012

April 23rd 2012

June 11th 2012

PLEASE CONTACT MORAG HIGGINS TO SECURE YOUR PLACE.

LEVEL TWO FAST TRACK

NEXT STUDY WEEKS COMMENCING

January 15th 2012

April 2nd 2012

PLEASE CONTACT MORAG HIGGINS TO SECURE YOUR PLACE.

The Level One study week is at a cost of £250 per person. 

The Level Two study weeks are £200 per week per person.

Remember this is a recognised qualification and a great chance to meet all of the instructors and trainers (human and equine!).  For further information and booking forms please contact us by e-mail.  We look forwards to meeting you all!

Student Feedback Study Week 28 March 2011

An absolutely brilliant week was had by the nine students attending the latest fast track course with brave Andrea Hibbert gamely studying at home, in between work sessions then sitting all exams on Friday!  It was a dynamic crowd which kept all of the Equido Instructors on their toes with their insightful questions.  One student, Pam Cherry, came up with an absolutely brilliant breakdown of what it means to study Equido:-

Energy and body language is the key.  Use it to focus on what you want your horse to do and vice versa.

Quality and strenght of bond develops by being passive and persistent, using consistency and repetition and by planning ahead.

Understand herd behaviour and the heirarchy of the horse’s individual needs.  Don’t blame the horse, he is just trying to survive.

Identify the problem, act appropriately, fix it and move on.  Everything means something.

Do think outside the box!  Most of the time there will be a solution or a compromise.  Set yourself up for success!

Offer the horse a choice.  Don’t fight, be clear.  Make the wrong thing difficult and the right thing easy.

We all thought this was absolutely brilliant, well done Pam.  So what did the students think?

Linda Jaimieson – Everything was pretty damn awesome!!!

Jo Atkinson – I have enjoyed the course, found it both interesting and informative.  Would be very interested to find out more about level 2.  I have met some great people and was mad eto feel very welcome making the learning process a pleasure.  I would highly reecommend Equido.

Lynn Roy – Really enjoyed my week and loved having Jo as my mentor.  Think the only way I could have enjoyed it more would be if I was staying on site.  It almost feels like a retreat and although the course was full on and stressfull at times, the whole place has a really calming atmosphere.

Megan O’Donnell – This was an enjoyable week, hard work but I really fell the knowledge I have gined will be of great value in my future relationship with horses.  The staff could not have been more friendly or helpful and I will be recommending this course to others  Thanks for a great week!

Laura Cruells (Spain) – The staff were fabulous, helpfull, welcoming and caring I am satisfied!!!

Katie MacKay – All the staff were really helpful, had a great time.

Pam Cherry – I found the course very informative and I have thoroughly enjoyed myself.  The atmosphere on the yard is wondrful and calm and this is reflected by the horses.  If I were a horse this is where I would  – like to live!!

Carmen Ferrera (Portugal) – I liked very much all the classes both lectures and practical, the staff were very useful and the horse are very well trained.  This moment the “Ross Dhu Equestrian Centre” is for me the chosen school to study horse behaviour, techniques and care.  Morag you are a very good teacher.

Lorraine McCallum – This has been the best move I have made coming to Ross Dhu on the Equido Course.  It is a very relaxing and welcoming place to learn.  The staff are extremely pleasant and willing to help and offer their experience at every turn.  I will return happy to learn more and continue this wonderful journey with horses.  There is no other equine place better or welcoming to learn.

The excellent students of March 2011:-

Student Feedback Study Week 11 October 2010

Two fantastic students rounded off the fast track courses for 2010.  Both were our youngest fast trackers to date (still at school) and did very well, despite the fast pace and huge learning requirements.

Amanda McSharry (Bute) – “Never thought a week at Ross Dhu would be so much fun and such a laugh!  Loved learning with and spending tiem with the horses, dogs and staff and can’t wait to come back and see them all again!”

Kirsty Fingland (Callander) – “I thougherly enjoyed my time here at Ross Dhu, staff were so lovely and ehlpful and the equido course has gi en me knowledge that I will carry with me all my years of (hopefully) being a vet! Thanks!”

Student Feedback Study Week August 2010

Thomas Moffatt – “I picked up a lot of interesting and useful information between the lectures.  The discussion on the Five Rings was very enlightening.  I found the input from all of the Instructors to be very useful to me as it came from the point of view of a single horse owner.

I liked the atmoshpere in the lectures and I felt comfortable asking questions.”

“With the little experience I have the practical work was essential and it has given me the confidence that I could look after my own horse.”

Student Feedback Study Week 1 March 2010

Four students attended this surprisingly warm study week.  Again there was a lot of intensive training and much worry (totally unfounded!) about exams etc but needless to say all passed with flying colours!  All students are now continuing onwards and upwards and have now decided to move onto Level 2.  Well done everybody who attended!

Student Feedback Study Week 5 October 2009

There was a great group of students attending this one week course in October and good fun and lively conversation was had by all, both during the lectures and in the evenings (when they were supposed to be studying!).  We had students from as far afield as the Isle of Bute and Southampton and all were eager to soak up the insight and knowledge from Equido Level One.  It was an intensive study week with a lot of information to get through but everyone worked really hard and not only passed all of their modules but passed them with Distinction! (What a bunch of swats!).  All are now eager to go on to Level Two and we will be trialing intensive study weeks for level two with these eager volunteers.  Here are some of their comments:-

Babs Butler (Southampton) – “Really enjoyed my time here at Ross Dhu, have learned so much and have realised what I need to do homework on.  Very intensive, looking forwards to doing level 2, thank you all, Happy People, Happy Horses Hurry for Natural Horsemanship at Ross Dhu!

Jan Clark (Stirling) -“A very comprehensive foundation course – I learned loads about how to look after a horse; a bit worrying how much I didn’t know since I’ve owned horses for years!”

Fiona Hillis (Ilse of Bute) -“Had a fab time, really nice instructors, staff, horses, family and dogs!  An absolute must for the Instructor or horse owner to have a better and kinder understanding towards their equine friends, I will look forward to passing on my new found knowledge.”

Gillian Morrison (Isle of Bute) - “The food was great! Horses and people were great!  Had a really good time”

We are currently setting study dates for next year, watch this spot for further details.

FORMAT OF 5-DAY FAST TRACK COURSE LEVEL ONE

FORMAT OF 5-DAY FAST TRACK COURSE LEVEL TWO

The response to Bruja has been absolutely phenomenal with the first print run being sold out in a matter of weeks!

A second print has now almost sold out as word spreads. I am very surprised and delighted at how much people are enjoying reading about Bruja and really appreciate comments and e-mails from those who have read the book, so please feel free to contact me via the e-mail address and if you would like your comments printed on this page just let me know.

Remember, Bruja is Published by: Fisher King Publishing

and is available on-line from*: www.fisherkingpublishing.co.uk @ £9.99
BORDERS BOOK STORE SELLS OUT!

Borders book store in Glasgow Fort have twice sold out on their copies of Bruja. This combined with two book sigining days by the Author has proved to be a great sucess. Borders is currently in stock so if you would like to order from them direct or grab a copy off the shelf before they sell out you might need to be quick! If you would like a signed copy then just ask Borders to arrange another book signing day with the author and this can easily be arranged.

COMMENTS FROM READERS:-

“I am reading the book at present and it is most enjoyable. Bruja sounded a marvelous horse and I can understand how you felt about her because this is just how I feel about Hannah” Sally Peers – horse owner

“Morag has excelled in sharing her emotional highs and lows as owner and partner of the remarkable Bruja. It reminded me of my own equine adventures as a youth and that horses continue to change my life” Ailsa Powers – Equestrian Yard Manager

“I want to tell you how much I enjoyed it and how so much of what you said was like my own experience with horses, from when I wished for one every time I blew out my birthday candles to the day I finally got my own horse and then the heartbreak of losing my soul mate when I had to have her put down. Thank you for your story – it really touched my heart

and conveyed so well the love and partnership between a girl

and her horse.” Elaine Hutchinson Horse Owner

“I’ve started reading Bruja and it is very good. I felt proud becasue the author signed it specially for me!” Emma Anderson (age 9yrs)

“An emotionally descriptive account of the horses’ ability to teach, the altruistic companionship they give and commitment they so rightly demand” Alan James Mueller MRCVS

“Anyone who has spent time around horses will be moved by this account. Any young girl who has yearned for a horse of her own will be inspired. It will touch the hearts of all who read it.” Sue Armstrong MA VetMB VetMFHom CertIAVH MRCVS RSHom

BOOK REVIEWS:-

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW & BESTSELLER EXTRACT: Bruja

by Russell Leadbetter Evening Times, 200 Renfield Street, Glasgow G2 3QB

IT’S the most unlikely publishing hit of the year – a book that fondly recalls 20 years in the company of a horse called Bruja.

Even the book’s author, Morag Higgins from the East End of Glasgow, can’t believe that her words are in such demand. But it’s proved so popular that the publisher’s first print-run has sold out and a large Glasgow book store has been doing excellent business out of it. The book is a funny, and moving, record of Morag’s time with the Irish draught thoroughbred cross, which died nine years ago.

“Bruja and I basically grew up together over 20 years,” says 43-year-old

Morag, who was brought up in Mount Vernon.

“I kept her in a yard at the back of the old Glasgow Zoo and we used to ride

along the main road, through all the housing schemes, through Broomhouse,

Barrachnie, Baillieston, Shettleston, Mount Vernon, Carmyle.”

“We’d go out with other horse riders and had some mad times. I remember

things like sneaking into Bothwell Castle and being chased by park rangers.”

She laughs at the memory.

“She was an exceptional horse in all sorts of ways. She was a professional

show-jumper, I qualified for the Horse of the Year Show at Wembley with her

two years in a row and she won a lot of money. When I retired her from show-jumping she went on to do one-day eventing, cross-country, dressage, showing. She was one of those horses that could basically do anything. When Bruja died, I was absolutley devastated. Like other people who’d also experienced loss, I remembered everything we’d done together. So I told myself, Morag, you should write this down now, because in years to come you may have forgotten it all and this will be

something for you to look back on and think, God, I remember when we did

that!’”

Her story took her just a week to write, but was an emotional, cathartic

experience and she would frequently find herself typing through floods of tears.

“At other times, I’d be helpless with laughter as I recalled some of the things we did together.”

The manuscript was written just for herself, though she let friends and family read it.

Morag was speaking with a publisher about another book she had planned on horse training but he sensed something in her voice when she spoke of Bruja and after telling him some of the story he asked if he could see what she had written. He called me and said ‘put the training book on hold, Bruja should be your first work.’

If Morag was bemused by that, it only increased when the publisher said that, in his view, the book ‘had the feel of the next Black Beauty’.

The book, as promised, appeared, and Morag did not know what hit her.

“Not only has it been published, but its first run sold out,” she says.

“Because I’m a professional horse-trainer, I know a lot of people in the field. A book review appeared and that spread the word further still. It has been a roaring success, and not just with horse lovers. What we’ve found is any animal-lover can relate to the story. A neighbour of ours read it and said it reminded him so much of his dog – he said, ‘I understand now why my dog did this or that, and how I could have been better for him.’ All I ever wanted in my whole life was to work with horses. Growing up in the East End of Glasgow, what were the odds of that happening? Very slim. Yet there was a drive in me – I wanted this so much, and tried so hard. I think the book reflects that.”

Morag had had a successful horse-riding career by the time Bruja died, but it was a horse, Brogan, bought for her a year later by her husband Mark that propelled her to the next stage of her career.However, while Brogan, was sweet and cocky’ he also had a fiery temper that, if provoked, could make him volatile. Morag saw a TV programme about a cowboy called Monty Roberts, widely known as a man who listened to horses. Amazed by what she saw, Morag contacted Roberts’ people, and they told him where she could learn his methods. The upshot is that Morag is now an expert in what is known as natural horsemanship, which relies on principles of psychology and equine behaviour to help horses and their owners achieve their full potential. You may need a tissue or two when you read it, but this inspiring, moving story will also make you laugh. Morag, who runs an equestrian centre near Larkhall, Scotland, has come a long way, but Bruja will forever be part of her. Bruja is published by Fisher King Publishing and is available

at £9.99 on line at www.fisherkingpublishing.co.uk

NO REGRETS

A last twitch from that knowing ear, slowly I watch her fire disappear.

Our souls join together one last time then the spark is gone.

And still her spirit lives on, burning in the hearts of the ones that she shared her gift with.

They only need close their eyes and remember, to feel that power, the rush, in this she will never go.

Bruja was and still is unique but don’t we all feel this way about the things that touch our very core.

Bruja had character, strength, spirit and a willingness to teach us how to live.

I only felt this a few times, the oneness.

I know that I will feel that fire again.

Bruja tried to teach me so much and I feel that I learned so little from her, one thing I do know though is that I’ll never try to teach a horse how to be a horse.

NO REGRETS, we all make mistakes, it’s the way we learn and it’s the way we live.

I do miss that auld bag, funny eh?

RESPECT

WHAT IS YOUR QUESTION, is it, walk trot or gallop, ask me in the right way and I can give you all that you wish for.

If you demand, then all you will do is contort my body with pain and twist my nature into the ignorance and arrogance held in your own mind.

When asked properly, I would crawl on my knees for you, I’d break my back if you wanted, I would give up my life for you, and all I ask in return is for a warm bed, some food, a kind word and love from every touch from your hand.

To think or whisper the language I know, which is so complex to some people, but so simple for others to understand for they know what can be achieved with kindness and love.

Speak softly the words that I know and I’ll give you the key’s to heaven, shout and all of hell’s demon’s will follow you forever or until you learn to listen and ask in the right way.

I am the wind,

I am life’s force,

I am a part of you,

and will be forever.

THE EMPTY STABLE

An empty stable is all we see through the tears.
No comfort found there for the passing of an old friend.

The bond has been broken
In Nature’s way a tragic play of life and death, love and loss.

We know we have done what was right
But still it sits on us with its crushing weight.

Time will heal the wound in our soul
But our heart will always be broken when
We think of our old friend.
In memory of Piper.
BEEN IT, SEEN IT, DONE IT

A Poem From Old Wise Horses

Been it, Seen it, Done it,
The old mares would say,
As they watched the youngsters frolic and play.

Old now, but young at heart,
In each other’s company,
Never to part,

Until the time that greets us all,
When even warriors have to fall.

And to that place we all shall run,
Peace at last,
All battles won.

Been it, Seen it, Done it,
Nothing more needs said

Home

Cold morning air on my face, good to feel life’s breath flowing through me,

Then I am gone, flying across the earth, bathing in the morning sun as we dance together,

No care or fear, just joy for the moment, blending as one, our movements a ballet of nature’s making.

The herd settles, a mist covers our tracks and the sun watches over us as we graze,

Content with it’s warmth on our back

Horses surround me,

I am home

WHISPERS

Mountian high, prairie wide, our lands are gone now, no place to hide.

Our life with man, a tenuous link, a beast of burden no right to think.

But still they come down through the years, their gentle touch to ease our fears.

They are the ones who know the way, their selfless hearts are why we stay.

And when I’m asked what did they say, I simply whisper then walk away.

AS ONE

He has an honest eye I heard them say, and to their lives I’ve come to stay.

To bring them joy my only wish and in return a simple kiss.

Into our worlds we both have come and when we touch we act as one.

Until we part at each days end and till tommorrow to see our friend, our bond is set we breath as one a happy future a life as one.

BROGAN

Flaxen mane and tail, with liver chestnut hair, we think, breath and move as one, without a single care.

This bond we have, unbreakable, it’s there for all to see. The lightest touch a whispered word, we move so soft and free.

Our journey moves from year to year, it seems to have no end, and still it’s fresh and wonderful to share it with my friend.

Adventures saught I dream awake and not a word is spoken, for there are none that I could speak to show my love for Brogan.

SOULMATE

Trust your heart and I will carry you all the days of your life.

For we are one, a friendship forged with trust and love, respect and honour.

No words need said just a soft touch or a simple carress. This is our language.

We will never part, even when our bodies leave, our spirit soars as one, this life will never end for our bond is eternal.

NIGHT AND DAY

I am lost for now,

Spirit gone,

Extinguished by fear,

No compasion behind those eyes,

Souless orbs bruning into me,

Taking my freedom with every glance.

 Sold,

A word of dread for all our kind,

Moved along like a leaf in an Autumn storm.

I know not this for I have now found.

 A gentle touch,

A kind word to greet my every morning,

Live and love behind the eye that holds me now.

My spirit safe,

The life I lost brought to me again.

 I will give my all to you for only you know the secret words of the heart.

NOTES FOR A NEW OWNER

Quiet my heart for I am lost.

Ease my soul from this darkened place.

Take my spirit from the pain I know,

Give back all that has been taken from me.

All I ask is for you to hear,

The voice that connects my soul to yours.

Gentle in its tone, soft in its touch,

Spoken the correct way we can achieve so much.

We go on from here.

BREATH OF LIFE

Wind carry me on my way, breathe your life into me.

Never far away each day, whispering in the trees.

Cool my body as I gallop through the wild summer grass,

moving me ever forward until tommorow’s end.

As we dance throughout time,

Drawing ever on, both our spirits free, never to be tamed.

We are born in nature, free spirits wild as a storm,

Gentle as a summer’s breeze, wind follow my heart.

WILD HEART

You will never tame my heart,

No matter what you say or shout

We will always be apart.

You can tie me up or time me down,

And beat me to a pulp, I will fight you till my dying breath,

Where there is no air to gulp.

You will never understand me with those cruel eye’s of yours.

For you are blind to me and this will be your curse.

My language not of angry words or fist, so subtle you can’t see.

That whispered word or softest touch, this is the very key.

And so I will leave you now,

Inside your deepest darkest heart,

And wish someday to find that soul from whom I will never part.

HOPE DREAMER

I’ve lost all my fire, my spirit’s gone black,

And I long for that day that the light will come back.

We’ve seen the dark times and lost all our hope,

Promises broken at the end of a rope.

And still I hold on to a dream that’s inside,

for a world full of light and no reasons to hide.

And so with that thought still fresh in my mind,

I hear a soft voice to tender and kind.

For this is the light I have dreamed of so long,

To bathe in it’s beauty, so gentle and warm.

Hold onto your dreams or they will never come true,

And look for the light that brings hope back to you.

SPRING

Wind dance with me as I play through the fileds,

So lost in the life of my youth.

I gallop and buck through the trees have to duck,

My muscles so liquid and loose.

With the sun on my back and the wind on my tail,

It pushes me onwards so fast.

With a flick and a buck and another for luck,

I wish only for this day to last.

And so at days end when I meet with my friend,

We greet each other with glee.

Wtih a life full of love sent from heaven above,

Our bond so loving and free.

HORSES NEVER DIE

Horses never die or so I think a while or two,

and if you care to listen I’ll pass those thoughts to you.

I’ve seen many horses pass through my life,

Some come happy others in strife.

And to them all I try to bring a softness to their lives,

No harsh words to be spoken or tongues that cut like knives.

They all have different characters, but I treat them all the same.

The one’s who’ve come from troubled pasts that simply arn’t to blame.

And when its time for them to pass to that world yet to be,

I simply try to honour them and set their spirits free.

And when their gone its never far, their always here with me,

for I have all those memories and keep them close you see.

So do horses ever die?

Not for me.

NUMBERS

All I want is to be with you as one not two.

As two we are seperate, chalk and cheese,

You kick and fight I take to flight

But that’s a nother negative, you cuss and scream, pull and drive

Your every move my next surprise.

We walk two seperate paths as two,

each searching for the one but never starting there.

As one our every moment or movement a ballet of our souls,

energies blend,

we both transend

searching ever deeper through that soft core

to walk a single path ever more.

as one.