Sarah Geikie, FEI 4 Star dressage judge, joins members of the New England Dressage Association to review the USDF changes that took effect on 1 December 2022, moving through each level with training tips. First of two sessions, this session reviews Intro through First Level tests.

Sarah has been a lifelong equestrian. Her original riding background was spent in Pony Club, riding hunters, and then moving on to being an active competitor in Combined Training. She competed up through the Intermediate level of Combined Training before turning her focus on dressage. Sarah has trained with many top dressage trainers, most notably, Volker Bromman, Wili Schculteis, Rudopph Zeilinger, Lilo Fore, Michael Poulin, and Olivia La Goy-Weltz. Her longtime trainer is Kathy Connelly, with whom she still works regularly.

Sarah remains an active rider and trainer and continues to compete. In addition to riding, teaching and training, Sarah is an FEI 4 Star dressage judge. She currently judges all over the world as well as in the US. She has been a judge for over 40 years, as she participated in one of the very first judge training programs. She is active in the Dressage Judges' Licensed Official Working Committee, as well as being a member of the Freestyle Committee.

Sarah believes it is very important to give back to the sport and serving on committees is a way to do that. She is currently the Co-Chair of the USDF Instructor/Trainer Committee. She has been very active in this program for the past 25 years, and is passionate about dressage education. She believes that education is so important for every rider, both amateur and professional. It is the bridge to the future. With Sarah’s combined education as a rider/trainer, instructor, and FEI judge, she brings the unique ability to provide riders at all levels with the complete insight to help them achieve their goals, whether it is to judge, become a better rider for your horse or to accomplish competitive goals. Sarah has the eye, the knowledge and the experience to help riders achieve success.

Join Sarah Geikie, FEI 4 star judge, active in the Dressage Judges' Licensed Official Working Committee, and member of the Freestyle Committee, discusses the 2023 test changes and how they impact Second through Fourth level tests.

Members reported loving the following aspects:

• "I liked the way Sarah Geikie brought to life the goals of the movements and how they helped develop the horses balance, strength and suppleness. She did a great job and I love her clear passion for the subject of training horses."
• "How its not the fancy horse with bad training but the average horse with good training that always ( should) win!!!!"
• "Harmony between horse and rider is first priority/goal!"
• "I made notes in my copy of the "Dressage Illustrated" dressage tests for judges, so when I'm asked to judge a schooling show, I will have a quick access to noted highlights for the tests. Good resource."

Sarah has been a lifelong equestrian. Her original riding background was spent in Pony Club, riding hunters, and then moving on to being an active competitor in Combined Training. She competed up through the Intermediate level of Combined Training before turning her focus on dressage. Sarah has trained with many top dressage trainers, most notably, Volker Bromman, Wili Schculteis, Rudopph Zeilinger, Lilo Fore, Michael Poulin, and Olivia La Goy-Weltz. Her longtime trainer is Kathy Connelly, with whom she still works regularly.

Sarah remains an active rider and trainer and continues to compete. In addition to riding, teaching and training, Sarah is an FEI 4 Star dressage judge. She currently judges all over the world as well as in the US. She has been a judge for over 40 years, as she participated in one of the very first judge training programs. She is active in the Dressage Judges' Licensed Official Working Committee, as well as being a member of the Freestyle Committee.

Sarah believes it is very important to give back to the sport and serving on committees is a way to do that. She is currently the Co-Chair of the USDF Instructor/Trainer Committee. She has been very active in this program for the past 25 years, and is passionate about dressage education. She believes that education is so important for every rider, both amateur and professional. It is the bridge to the future. With Sarah’s combined education as a rider/trainer, instructor, and FEI judge, she brings the unique ability to provide riders at all levels with the complete insight to help them achieve their goals, whether it is to judge, become a better rider for your horse or to accomplish competitive goals. Sarah has the eye, the knowledge and the experience to help riders achieve success. Over the years, Sarah has trained many horses and riders up to FEI. She has had success through the Grand Prix level, on a horse that she trained herself. Her students have earned their USDF medals and often place in USDF and NEDA year-end awards.

Anna Buffini earned several top results early in the 2021 season with her Hanoverian mare, FRH Davinia La Douce, placing third in the FEI Grand Prix and FEI Grand Prix Special CDI3* at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival week 10 and third in the FEI Grand Prix Freestyle CDI-W at AGDF 5. Buffini placed first and second in the USEF 2016 Young Adult Brentina Cup Dressage National Championship with her own Dutch Warmblood geldings, Sundayboy and Wilton II, respectively. At the 2019 USEF Festival of Champions, she came back with Wilton II to win the FEI Grand Prix Freestyle 16-25 en route to becoming Brentina Cup Reserve National Champion. In her youth career, Buffini rode Sundayboy to wins in the FEI Young Rider Team and Individual Tests at the 2014 U.S. Dressage Festival of Champions. That same year, they were members of the gold-medal team at the North American Youth Championships.

NEDA MEMBERS LEARNED:

• "I appreciated how she said that learning a new skill can take time, and that not all horses will make it to the top level. Not all riders can do it, either. Sometimes we have to settle for what the horse has to offer us. Anna has a great laugh, and she has a good sense of humor about everything."
• "I was so impressed by her openness and a forthright discussion of the issues she deals with and has dealt with regarding her horses! She was so refreshing and warm!! What a lovely young lady!!"
• "She was so affirming and did such a great job describing how she and her various partners worked together to move up the levels. I especially liked hearing about riding with emotion and how troublesome that can be. And I loved how she described how things go wrong even for the top riders - as someone who’s been dealing with six months of lameness and snail’s pace recovery from a suspensory ligament tear, it really gave me hope. (And I told my mare all about it.)"
• "Anna Buffini was amazing. She has a huge depth of knowledge and understanding of the horse and training. I will use all of her concepts."

Performance is a passion for Dr. Jenny Susser. With a doctoral degree in Clinical Health Psychology, specializing in Sport& PerformancePsychology, Dr. Jenny is a NewYork State licensed psychologist, a Certified Mental Performance Consultant with the Association for Applied Sport Psychology, and a member of the USOC Olympic Registry, the highest distinction a Sport Psychologist can obtain in the United States.

A former high performing athlete, Dr. Jenny was a four-year All-American swimmer and then assistant coach at UCLA, Pac-10 Champion, swam on two national teams, and competed at the 1988 Olympic Trials. One of her greatest experiences was competing at the 1989 World Maccabiah Games, winning six gold medals and setting a Games record in each event. In sport, Dr. Jenny has worked with division I collegiate teams from UCLA, USC, Cal State Dominguez Hills, and Hofstra University, individual high school athletes of all levels, and athletes of all sports and ages, professional, international, Olympic, and amateur. Dr.Jenny was the 2012 USET Sport Psychologist for the United States Olympic Dressage Team in London.

After working for a decade with high-performing athletes, Dr. Jenny took her experience to the corporate world, applying the tools of high performance to the pressures of the business world. As a keynote speaker and corporate trainer, she has delivered performance training to teams and individuals in Fortune 500 companies such as Johnson & Johnson, Target, Nike, Capital One Financial, Samsung, Deloitte, Hewlett Packard, Nationwide, Toys“R” Us, Stryker, Owens Corning, eBay, JLL, Fifth Third Bancorp, Samsung, as well as Sephora, Mercedes-Benz, Ulker, ProMedica, Orlando Health, and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.

With a philosophy of blending science/research, education, experience, and intuition, Dr. Jenny's ability to flex and draw from multi-dimensional resources creates a powerful experience and remarkable results. Dr. Jenny successfully applies her years of experience promoting mind and body wellness with performance to sport and corporate teams and individuals looking to make a lasting, positive difference in their professional and personal lives.

NEDA MEMBERS LEARNED:

• "I am definitely going to be making a solid plan for recovering my energy before and during show days! I struggled with losing energy last season and it really affected my tests, so I'm excited to see if I can improve on this!"
• "I missed Dr. Jenny the first time around, and after last night I am so sorry that I did! I loved her interpretation of refilling the tank and how that may be done in many different ways."
• "Four hours or less of sleep and you will test as if you are drunk!!! How to recover energy: Do the things that bring me happiness."
• "That there is a lot of complexity to the subject of energy. I will now be more aware, and take care, to maintain a balance between low energy and high energy. Recharge throughout the day and not “bookend” which has been my pattern for years and years!"

Dr. Hodge of Miller and Associates Equine Veterinarians grew up showing Hunter/Jumpers in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, serving as captain of George School’s Varsity Equestrian team. In 2010 she graduated from Monmouth University with a B.S. in Biology. She then went on to earn her DVM from the University of Missouri in 2014. Following graduation, Dr. Hodge completed an internship at Carolina Equine Hospital in Browns Summit, North Carolina.

Not a fan of cold weather, Dr. Hodge then moved to Florida where she worked as an associate veterinarian for the next six years. During that time, she continued her education with advanced courses in equine podiatry, reproduction, and emergency medicine. In her free time, Dr. Hodge enjoys riding and showing her two OTTBs, and spending time with her children, Reagan (5) and Baron (3).

MEMBERS LEARNED:

• "I have a young PRE, so the information regarding him possibly being predisposed to metabolic issues is important to me. Especially pertaining to feeding him properly as he matures."
• "That she was more concerned with horses with fat pad than the horse that was fat overall. Exercise is most important and even a little bit makes a difference."
• "How to recognize early signs of insulin resistance, Cushing’s, and laminitis. (I will be obsessively checking my horses and feeling their hooves every day now!)"
• "I have three horses that have metabolic issues and lost two last year to laminitis so this topic is very near to my heart!! I thought she was wonderful and so helpful!! I honestly can't single out one specific thing as it was everything! I would love to her her speak again!!!"

Lois Yukins has judged both domestically as a USEF S judge, and internationally in her capacity as an FEI 4* judge. Along with her International and National judging, Lois is a trainer and examiner of judges in the U.S. from the L Graduate level to our Senior judges and works on the program materials for all levels. Lois is the Chair of the USDF L Education Program, a member of the USDF Judges Committee, and works on subcommittees of the USEF.

Gary Rockwell has represented the United States abroad as both a competitor and judge over his dressage career. As a USEF judge for more than 25 years, he officiated at many regional finals and national championships. As an FEI judge (first as an FEI 4* and then FEI 5*), he officiated at North American Young Rider Championships, FEI Challenge Tours, European Championships, four World Cup Finals, the 2008 Olympic Games in Hong Kong and the 2012 Olympic Games in London.

MEMBERS LEARNED:

• "I found it extremely helpful that they talked about training leg yields and flying changes. I am bringing along a six-year old, and we are currently doing lots of lateral work. I appreciate that you put together a presentation about going through the dressage levels because my plan is to go as far with my horse in dressage as I can, so I am super excited that now I have a more concrete understanding of how the levels differ and what skills I need to solidify to move up."
• "As an intro level rider it was helpful to learn about what the judge is looking for going up the levels - the differentiation between consistently on the bit, and then balancing back to front. Also that perhaps it isn’t in your best interest to dress flashy and draw attention to yourself in the ring."
• "Develop more quality trot through the leg yields. Lots of great teaching ideas!"

Sabine is originally from Krefeld, Germany, where she was classically trained under Jean Bemelmanns for three years before completing her official “Bereiter” exam with the Federation Nationale in Germany. She continued to study with Jan Nivelle and Stefanie Meyer-Biss. Recognized for her talent at a young age, she trained two Friesian stallions, Tinus PM and Jorrit PM, through Grand Prix. Both horses were awarded the Golden Horse Award by the German FPZV for outstanding accomplishments in the sport of dressage.

Early in her career, her portfolio of diverse horsemanship was evident as Sabine earned her silver medal in driving, which requires driving a four-in-hand. Following her move to the United States in 1998, Sabine has won numerous international competitions with young horses as well as FEI horses. In 2015, she competed for the United States of America at the Pan American Games in Toronto, and came home with a Team Gold Medal in Dressage. She was recently awarded the Carol Lavelle Advanced Dressage Training Grant and spent the fall of 2017 in Europe doing focused training and competition with her Grand Prix partner, Sanceo. In 2018, she earned a spot representing the US at the Nations Cup, where Team USA won the team gold, and swept the podium in the Grand Prix Freestyle.

Sabine continues to advance her own education under the brilliant eye of Olympian Christine Traurig. Sabine operates her boutique dressage training business out of Napa Valley, California. Her program prioritizes quality over quantity, and is based on a horsemanship approach. Her track record producing stallions, mares, and geldings of a variety of breeds demonstrates her sensitive approach to a training partnership. Sophia is a USDF Bronze and Silver Medalist, and an active member of the dressage community since 2013.

Prior to her move to the west coast, Sophia was also a Region 8 PM Delegate, USDF Youth Programs Advisory Subcommittee member, and the New England Dressage Association’s Youth Liaison. In 2016 she earned the USDF Youth Volunteer of the Year award, an annual recognition of the volunteerism of young riders from around the country. With her horse W Spotlight, Sophia competed at the 2018 North American Youth Championships on the Region 8 Junior team. Sophia also attended the Dressage Foundation’s 2019 Young Rider International Dream Program at the CHIO Aachen. Both of these events greatly enhanced Sophia’s desire to one day be a U.S. Team rider.

NEDA MEMBERS LEARNED:

• "There are many paths to accomplish our goals with the sport, and don't burn yourself out or be hard on yourself because you have different struggles or circumstances to accommodate."
• "Our youth needs more of this. Having both of these ladies have a superb balance of sensibility and reality. Excellent discussion and excellent questions from the panel!!"
• "To be more patient in my training!! Love how unassuming and positive they both were."
• "I liked the "big picture " perspective that both Sabine and Sophia shared--- that happiness doesn't come from the momentary ribbon, but from the lasting development of the relationship with the horse. We know that, but it's heartening to see our top rider from the Olympics and a young up and comer really living that!!"
• "Even though it was targeted for the young rider, I felt the insight from both generations and backgrounds very informative and helpful to keep in mind for my future dressage development"

Born in 1962 the son of a Hanoverian warmblood breeder, Dr. Moller because riding at the age of 12. He spent fifteen years as an auction horse rider at the Verden Auction, and the last five of those years he was their auction manager. For nineteen years he worked for the famous PSI stables under Ulrich Kasselmann, and since 2017 has been working for Andrea Helgstrand, moving between Wellington and the farm in Germany with his wife Eva.

Dr. Moller was a 2 time world champion with Sandro Hit and Don Davidoff, totalling five medals at the national championships. He also holds 7 gold medals from the German Bundeschampionat (German Young Horse Championship), with numerous second and thirds as well. He and Eva have many wins at the World Championships and Bundeschampionat as a young horse trainer specifically.

NEDA MEMBERS LEARNED:

• "Always be flexible with your plans and ride the horse you have that day. Must be 100% ready at home to get 80% at the show."
• "I wasn't sure that a discussion on Young Horse Competition would be useful because I don't ride young horses - Everything Ulf mentioned was totally relevant to my everyday riding and building a trusting, effective and enjoyable relationship with my older horse. He definitely seems a compassionate and knowledgeable horseman. I got a sore neck because of my head constantly nodding in agreement!"
• "When the horse offers a gift of something, take it but don’t make them do it over & over. Let the horse work more in the gait they prefer. The FEI young horse tests aren’t for every horse- for some, they aren’t ready at the right time on the calendar, for others, they are ready for work more advanced than their age. But it is a guideline of the common order of progression, if not the timing."
• "There were so many good points that were offered! One of the insights would be to just let my ride improve by feel and once I feel what I want, I will just leave it alone and ride it without interference!"

Join the NEDA team to chat with Dr. Piper Klemm, publisher of The Plaid Horse Magazine, podcast producer, and entrepreneur about bias, grit, and resilience in the equine industry.

Members reported enjoying learning more about:

• "It is a good thing if a decision feels a little scary [because] it means you’re being brave and that brings new opportunities" "modeling positive behavior"
• "To pay more attention to the three-step process in making decisions"
• "I would definitely recommend her insights to someone who was struggling with self-image and consequent lack of success"

Piper Klemm, Ph.D., is the Publisher of The Plaid Horse Magazine. She received her B.S. with Honors in Chemistry from Trinity College (Hartford, CT) and her Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of California at Berkeley in 2012 studying inorganic lanthanides for molecular imaging in the lab of Professor Kenneth N. Raymond.

She has been the Publisher of The Plaid Horse since 2014, co-authored the Show Strides series for young riders, is a co-host of the #Plaidcast, has a pony leasing business, and runs various entrepreneurial projects. Her mission is to educate young equestrians in every facet of our industry and empower in particular young women to find their voice and story and share them. She shows in the amateur hunter divisions with her horse of a lifetime, MTM Sandwich. In addition to The Plaid Horse, she pursues her commitment to education by teaching various college courses.

Connect with her on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/piperjklemm/) and Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/piper.klemm).

Listen to Piper's podcast, The Plaid Cast: https://www.theplaidhorse.com/ .

Listen to Piper's podcast guest appearances: https://www.theplaidhorse.com/the-plaidcast/ .

Join us as we chat with Tara Swersie (CEO) and NEDA member Natasha Sprengers-Levine (COO) of STRIDER, the largest equestrian bookings platform and software services provider for the horse industry.

Members said they learned:

• "For my club suggesting online payments and show submissions to decrease paperwork and time for board members"
• "Always check private setting when using Venmo"
• "I’m glad to know that there’s someone local I can work with to wrangle the tech monster. I’ve been working with people remotely for it for a couple years."
• "It turned out to be fascinating! For anyone who could not tune in for the live session, I strongly urge you to watch the recording."

Tara Swersie is a lifelong equestrian who grew up riding hunter/jumper horses in New Jersey before she transitioned to eventing, she believes access to knowledge and community is the best foundation for horsemanship.Tara often serves as a senior business consultant and is featured speaker at industry panels. Swersie previously spent 20 years in international politics. She holds a Master’s Degree in technology and international security studies from Georgetown University.

Natasha Sprengers-Levine is a USPC graduate and United States Dressage Federation Silver and Bronze Medalist and FEI rider who holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science and philosophy from the University of Vermont, where she was captain of the dressage team. Through articles written for industry leaders such as the United States Eventing Association (USEA) and Dressage Today as well as coordinating speakers for STRIDER’s professional development webinar series, Natasha seeks to provide riders and horse owners everywhere with access to equine education and capacity-building opportunities. She also operates a boutique dressage training operation out of Blue Wood Farm & Vineyard in Millbrook, NY where she began hosting popular schooling shows in 2022.

Join the NEDA Know How team as they connect with the fabulous Beth Baumert on the challenges of balance.

Members reported enjoying the following aspects of the session:

• "The diagrams were super helpful, and Beth was very descriptive!"
• "The importance of mental balance!"
• "Her ability to break the mysterious half-halt down into words and visual timing was remarkable. We all know the half halt is essential but to see it and hear it explained by Beth made the light bulb flicker. I can now talk about how each of the 3 phases works. She’s remarkable."
• "Recipe for improvement: half halts, transitions and shoulder fore"
• "Definitely trying harder to move the horse off his inside hind rather than forehand. Beth was so interesting and informative! One of the best classes yet!!"
• "Looking forward to the recorded video to watch again."
• "Transitions and half halts fix longitudinal balance and shoulder fore fixes latitudinal balance."

Beth Baumert was the technical editor for Dressage Today magazine for nearly 25 years. In that capacity, she was in constant contact with the best dressage riders in the world as they discussed and wrote about the technical aspects of dressage. From this depth of knowledge, Beth wrote her first book, When Two Spines Align, which was published by Trafalgar Square Books in 2014. It continues to serve as a “bible” for serious dressage riders. The German edition of Two Spines came out in 2020 along with the first edition of the sequel, How Two Minds Meet.

Beth’s primary commitment has always been studying dressage and teaching. She has been a USDF Certified Instructor since nearly the inception of the program, and she continues to support the program. She is an ”L” graduate with distinction of the USDF judges training program. Beth’s current passion is the further development of The Dressage Foundation. She became involved with the Foundation in 2000 when she began administering the Young Rider International Dream Program. Subsequently she served as Secretary and later Vice President of TDF. She currently serves as President and CEO.

Beth and Alan, her husband of more than 50 years, divide their time between Wellington, Florida, and Columbia Lake in Connecticut. Their Cloverlea Farm in Columbia was a center for excellence for 45 years. Since the sale of the farm, Beth teaches clinics, usually based on her book. She and Alan have two sons (NYC and CO) and a daughter, Grand Prix rider, Jennifer Baumert (OH and FL). They enjoy five grandchildren.

Join the NEDA Know How facilitators as they chat with Dr. Kari Searls on how to best prepare for a bad day.

Members reported valuing the following takeaways:

• "This was a well thought out and organized presentation. Very valuable. Much of the information will be familiar to many professionals but still a good review and super helpful for new horse owners."
• "Wonderful session. She packed so much information into one hour but, at the same time, did not overwhelm her audience."
• "How important TPR is. I have to learn what they are for my horse."
• "I especially appreciated her talking about what to do while waiting for the vet. That's always a stressful time, and she gave such good and easy to follow advice."

Born and raised in Iowa City, Dr. Kari Searls grew up riding dressage and competing at local hunter/ jumper shows, working with trainers and veterinarians in the area. She attended University of Massachusetts Amherst, majoring in pre-veterinary studies and minoring in history. During her time at UMASS she was very involved with the IHSA Equitation Team. She attended Iowa State University for veterinary school and completed a yearlong internship with Alamo Pintado Equine Medical Hospital in Los Olivos, California. Professionally, her interests include upper airway disease, lameness and diagnostic imaging. In her free time, she enjoys hiking with her dog, Naya, kayaking, and spending time with family and friends.

Join the NEDA Know How facilitators as they chat with Hope Cooper about her experiences training with Isabelle Werth and Christoph Koschel in Europe over a few months.

Members noted the following enjoyable aspects of the session:

• "To apply for more grants to have an amazing experience as Hope did!"
• "What a great insight on the amazing trip that Hope was able to experience. I like the fact that she was open to helping anyone with more information to connect with the right people in order to have a similar experience."
• "It's been wonderful having such vivacious speakers! It's very inspiring!"

Hope is based in Massachusetts and Wellington FL. She has been an equestrian ever since she began walking and dressage (and maybe a few dogs) is main focus of her life. She has ridden successfully from FEI Children’s, Jr/Yr, U25 to Open Grand Prix. She is a USEF Gold Medalist. Hope competed for Region 8 at NAYC in both the Juniors and Young riders division. In 2014 she earned an individual Bronze on her horse Don Diamond in the Young Rider division. In addition, Hope was the bronze medalist overall in the U25 at Festival of Champions in 2019 and the Gold medalist in 2021 CDIO (Nations Cup) in Wellington.

Most recently Hope was able to spend three months in Germany training with Isabell Werth and Christoph Koschel in preparation for her 2022 debut in the Senior GP level. That year she accomplished her first senior Grand Prix 3* win in the freestyle and second place in the Grand Prix. Since then, she has continued to develop her 3 young horses towards the Grand Prix and continues to strengthen and develop her GP Stallion Flynn PCH. At the same time, Hope coaches many of the YRs in Region 8, as well as Adult Amateurs. Hope feels very lucky to work closely with her mother, Jane Karol, and Christoph Koschel, and soaks in all they have to offer.

A USDF Bronze and Silver Medalist as well as an American Sports and Fitness Association Pilates Certified Instructor, Kirsten has practiced Pilates for the last ten years, and will be sharing information on the STBL methodology.

STBL Pilates for Riders helps riders locate, isolate and strengthen the muscles and movement patterns they need to be strong, supple, balanced riders. The goal is to create new movement patterns and deeper foundational strength that translates into more accurate aids and a more balanced seat in the saddle. Strength and balance are empowering in daily life and on your horse. STBL has organically grown into a successful resource for the serious rider looking for structured ways to strengthen and develop their seat.

Of the ten years Kirsten has focused on pilates, five of them have been spent as a serious and determined student of Tiffany DeMartin of Ridgefield, CT. Tiffany is the owner of Delicious Pilates in Ridgefield, CT. She is certified in all apparatus through Balanced Body, is a Pilates Method Alliance Certified Pilates Teacher as well as a Yoga Alliance Certified Yoga Practitioner (studying with Down Under in Boston, MA). Tiffany has instilled the importance of correctness of movement, searching for the work, isolation and strengthening of all muscles, and Kirsten has carried these concepts deeply into her daily life.

Visit Kirsten's site at https://stbl4riders.com.

NEDA MEMBERS HAVE LEARNED FROM KIRSTEN:

"Her breakdown of the building blocks was very insightful to me and I plan on utilizing it fully."

"The exercise to help open the hips, I have very tight hip flexors."

"I need to work more on independent movements of my hips and pelvis!"

"The exercise turning toes in, knees out will be of enormous immediate help."

Steve Kraus: American Farriers Association, Certified Journeyman Farrier; Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine Head of Farrier Services and Sr. Lecturer of Large Animal Surgery.

Click here to see Steve's book, Shoeing the Modern Horse The Horse Owners Guide to Farriery and Hoof Care, published through Trafalgar Square Books.

NEDA MEMBERS LEARNED:

• "Remember there is not a one-size-fits all solution to an issue (not just shoeing!) with a horse, you have to consider the horse, its environment, and what is the horse's job."
• "I found the instances when shoes were needed and when they weren’t interesting."
• "The WIDTH method for working with my farriers (I have FOUR that come to my stable) to discussing alternatives for horses' needs and to help my clients to discuss what to do with their horses."
• "Much clearer idea of what shoes can accomplish, for an individual horse"

Steve Kraus is an American Farriers Association, Certified Journeyman Farrier who since 2010 has been Head of Farrier Services and a Sr. Lecturer of Large Animal Surgery, at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, and the instructor of the Farrier School there. Prior to that, he had over 40 years in his own farrier business in Central New York, shoeing many breeds of horses participating in diverse disciplines. He started his career in 1965 learning to shoe summer camp horses. While attending Cornell University, College of Agriculture he shod horses part time to support himself, eventually earning a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science in 1971. In his career, he has shod horses used for dressage, jumping, endurance racing, polo, 3-day eventing, driving, flat and harness racing, and draft horses. He is known for troubleshooting lame, injured, and underperforming horses.

In 1976, Steve was the first farrier consultant to be hired by the Mustad horse nail company. He redesigned their US nail line, created the combo series, and initiated Mustad’s clinician and sponsorship programs. He has lectured to farriers, veterinarians, and horse owners all over the US, Canada, South America, and Europe. He has been a featured speaker at the International Hoof Care Summit, Laminitis Conference, Equine Affaire, and the American Farriers Association Convention. Steve has written many articles published in the American Farriers Journal, The Horse Journal, and The Professional Farrier.

As a horse owner, he trains and plays his own string of polo horses and trains beginning polo players at Cornell University. He is a past president of the Western New York Farriers Association and a former American Farriers Association Board of Director of Region #5. In 2016, he was inducted into the International Farriers Hall of Fame. In 2018, he was the first farrier inducted into the Cornell Veterinary Honor Society known as Phi Zeta Alpha.

Shannon Dueck (http://www.dueckdressage.com/) is a lifelong equestrian who moved to New England from Vancouver in 1997 to get closer to great dressage opportunities. She has represented Canada internationally at the Pan Ams, WEG and the World Cup on self-trained horses, and coaches internationally as well. She now resides in Loxahatchee Florida where she runs Dueck Dressage Training and is lucky enough to count Carl Hester as one of her coaches.

In this session MEMBERS LEARNED:

• "The discussion regarding both let position and the use of your seat in sitting trot were very helpful discussions. I liked the video's in slow mo as well, will be reviewing this lecture again."
• "I liked the imagery of the elbow being part of the pelvis & the hands being part of the horse’s mouth. Also the triangle formed by the rider’s back, forearms, & hands."
• "Body awareness. The correct sitting position and love the description of ‘ride the wave’. She was fabulous!"
• "Pelbow! We can never have enough education on proper use of our bodies, which start with the pelvis. Shannon was remarkably open and astute about the essence of this. Hopefully there will be a part two of this. One hour was not enough!"

Charles de Kunffy was born and raised in Hungary, as a child of eminent horse breeders with derby winning racehorses. He started riding as a child, always under expert supervision and instruction. His riding masters were educated during the golden age of equitation between 1900-1945. His teachers were the products of the finest riding institutions of the “inter bellum.” Cross-country riding, jumping and dressage were melded into one comprehensive system of training, adhering to the classical tradition of riding theory and methodology. Diversification of activities, riding skills and the ability to improve any horse were emphasized in the academic training program. Charles de Kunffy was schooled with the strictest adherence to classical training traditions based on scholarship and a profound respect for the horse. He represents the unbroken heritage of classical horsemanship handed down from generation to generation without compromise.

Jessica Jo “JJ” Tate (of https://www.teamtatedressage.com/ ) began to take her place among the country’s riding elite early, making her FEI debut at just 16 years old. Earning numerous national and regional titles, JJ’s has trained and competed over 29 horses at the FEI levels, including eight at Grand Prix. Known for her classical education and elegant riding, she is a top competitor who’s devotion to the very highest standards of horsemanship and integrity make her a positive role model in the contemporary dressage world. JJ has been long-listed for the World Equestrian Games and represented the United States in competitions abroad. Recent notable wins include Dressage at Devon World Cup Grand Prix in September 2018 and the Global Dressage Festival CDI4* Grand Prix Freestyle in February 2020 aboard Faberge.

NEDA MEMBERS LEARNED:

• "I was inspired by Charles' knowledge of the philosophy behind classical dressage. I loved his point about "not riding the horse, riding his energies". And I would love to get my hands on a copy of his "Dressage Principals Illuminated"!"
• "Remembering to be mindful & thankful while building my relationships through correct training with my horses. To always come from a place of love & respect while developing a partnership. I can never stop Learning & need to study & review more works from these wise masters. Staying humble is a virtue."

Juan Matute Sr. has had incredible impact on the dressage industry globally, winning the 1982 Young Rider World Championships as well as competing in the Olympics for Spain in 1988, 1992, and 1996, and now trains horses up to the Grand Prix level while also shaping his children to follow in his Olympic footsteps. One of the most important quotes this author could find from the great Juan Matute Sr.: “Because I have shown in the international arena for most of my life, my children listen to the mistakes I made. And, I made all the mistakes. So, I know how to help my kids and my students. I don’t want them thinking too much about the atmosphere, or thinking about the judges.”

Juan Jr. is a USDF Gold Medalist, and has been inducted into Becas Podium, a sponsorship program awarded to the top two young Spanish athletes of every Olympic sport. Matute Jr. began his international competition career in 2013 and became the Kur gold medal winner at the 2015 European Junior Riders Championships. Sponsored by Yeguada de Ymas, he was able to spend his winters in Florida and summers competing in Europe. However, in 2018, Matute decided for professional independence and split from his long-time sponsors. He permanently moved to Spain and based himself at the yard of Russian-Spanish Cristina Khamidoulin in Moraleja de Enmedio, Spain, half an hour from Madrid city centre. He competed for Spain at the 2018 World Equestrian Games in Tryon and with horse Quantico is now short listed for the 2021 Tokyo Olympic Games. With Don Diego he had qualified for the 2020 World Cup Finals in Las Vegas, which were canceled due to Covid-19. Matute Jr. was rushed for emergency surgery to address a brain bleed in May 2020, and endured a few weeks in a coma before being released in July to begin rehabilitation.

NEDA MEMBERS LEARNED:

• "I was happy to see how they stressed the importance of keeping the horse interested and happy in the work."
• "Variety of (holistic) training for optimal physical and mental health of horse. In hand work, which I have been dying to learn and practice more. The art of dressage not the art of $1 million horse flesh."
• "Loved how Sr described looking into the horse's eye. Communication with the horse on every most basic level."
• "It was wonderful seeing the boundless enthusiasm of youth balanced by patience wisdom of age"

Roxanne Trunnell is a 2016 Rio de Janeiro Paralympian and a two-time FEI World Equestrian Games™ U.S. Para Dresage Team Member (Tryon 2018 and Normandy 2014). 

Andrea Woodard is the founder of Woodard Dressage (https://woodarddressage.com), and an accredited Master Rider through the Danish Equestrian Federation.

NEDA MEMBERS LEARNED:

• "What I learned is how incredibly dedicated the para riders, their trainers, grooms, and sponsors are to developing a great rider/horse combination at this very high level!! I am so impressed with them!! Thank you for opening up this part of our sport to me!!"
• "This was a unique topic which was very interesting. Glad you choose this topic."
• "I'm just a spectator of para dressage, but the information was fascinating. It takes truly dedicated athletes and professionals to support para dressage riders and their exceptional mounts."
• "Never give up and try your best, no matter what challenges life throws at you! And try to do it with as much grace and humor as possible!"

Roxanne Trunnell is currently the highest ranked Para Dressage athlete in the world, per the FEI Para Dressage World Indiviudal Ranking, and has broken numerous records, including receving numerous scores over the 80% mark over the past two years aboard her mount Dolton. Horses have always been a part of Roxanne “Roxie” Trunnell’s life. As a competitor in able-bodied dressage, Trunnell aspired to be an Olympian. She earned a United States Dressage Federation (USDF) bronze medal and was close to obtaining her silver medal until contracting a virus in 2009 that caused swelling in her brain that changed her life forever. The virus put her in a coma and resulted in her requiring a wheelchair. However, she refused to let this stifle her dreams. Trunnell elicited the help of her family and friends to get her back in the saddle.

After a long recovery, Trunnell slowly began to ride again and completed her Masters in Psychology with a focus in Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy. Striving to compete, Trunnell thought para-equestrian dressage was the perfect avenue. In November of 2012, she was classified Grade 1a, and by May 2013, she rode in her first CPEDI at the Golden State Dressage Show in Rancho Murrieta, Calif. Since 2013, she has delivered top-three placings consistently, contributing to U.S. Para-Equestrian Dressage Team success.

In 2021, Trunnell won at every outing in the first half of the year. She and Dolton swept the Grade I classes and helped earn two Perrigo CPEDI3* team wins at the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival during weeks three and nine. At the Perrigo Tryon Summer Dressage CPEDI3*, Trunnell and Dolton again won the team competition and each of the Grade I classes, including a world record score of 89.522% for an FEI Para Dressage Freestyle Test.

Andrea Woodard is classically trained with a profound knowledge of how to prepare top horses for sale and competition. Andrea has many years of experience working as a professional dressage rider and instructor, teaching all levels of riders from amateur to professionals. She also has extensive experience in training and developing young dressage horses to reach their highest potential.

Born in the USA, Andrea grew up in Denmark with a love for horses, and it was a natural choice for her to become a Master Rider. In 2009 she completed her 6-year riding education under the Danish Equestrian Federation. Since then Andrea has worked as an instructor for amateur as well as professional riders, and has been employed as a principal dressage rider at one of Denmark’s largest stud farms, Stutteri Viegaarden. From 2011 to 2015 she worked as a rider for Andreas Helgstrand at Helgstrand Dressage, located in northern Denmark. There she took her professional career to a new level, working with Helgstrand’s unique collection of elite dressage horses, preparing the horses for competition, as well as sale.

Andrea participated in the F.E.I. World Dressage Championships for Young Horses in Germany and has numerous placements with several horses up to Grand Prix. On Helgstrand’s horses, Andrea obtained several placements in the FEI young horse classes, Prix St. George, Intermediare I, Intermediare II and Grand Prix. Andrea now lives in Wellington with husband Giuliano, son Jamie and dog Charlie.

Jillian (https://www.jilliankreinbringinspired.com/) has been working with horses her entire life. In her early years, she participated in horse competitions in the AQHA, APHA, and Open Stock Horse Association. After graduating with her undergraduate degree, Jillian accepted the head training position at Circle L Ranch in Germany, where over the course of two years, she trained client horses, started young stock, and exhibited halter and pleasure horses. While abroad, she won three European National Halter Championships, the Circle L Western Pleasure Futurity, and High Point DQHA Horse of the Year, and trained AQHA World Qualifiers.

On her return to the United States from Germany, Jillian stopped competing horses and entered the Master's program in the school of Agricultural Life Sciences at the University of Wisconsin Madison. Here she studied equine movement, posture, and muscle development, as well as adult vocational education. Jillian’s research was guided in part by Dr. Hillary Clayton, Dr. Nancy Nicholson, and Dr. Sara Wyche. With their support, Jillian completed her Masters Thesis entitled “Desired Muscular Development in the Neck of the Horse: An Equine Observational Communication Tool and Study”. Additionally, Jillian has spent time with Dr. Deb Bennett studying gross anatomy through the school of Equinology.

Jillian’s deep concern for the health of horses fuels her ongoing study of classical riding and its relationship to sound functional anatomy and posture and mental well-being. She continues her riding and in-hand education with Manolo Mendez, Stephanie Millham, and Peggy Cummings. Prior to his death in 2016, Jillian studied extensively with Mark Russell.

NEDA Members Learned:

"I was particularly fond of Jillian’s comments on bending and her emphasis on where it happens (not the ribs but shoulder and haunches) with rotation of the ribs, as well as cautioning against over bending of the neck at the base and poll. Everything in her lecture was a reminder to learn about the horse and his body and mind in order to make us more sympathetic riders rather then technocrats."

"Too many to mention, I am hoping tp go back and review the recording. Fantastic ability to explain the structure and function with diagrams and photos and her words."

"Better understanding of how correct bend rotates spine"

"Take your horse out and expose to different environments"

Join Kathy Connelly, international dressage rider, trainer, coach, USEF “S" judge, USDF Instructor Certification Examiner, and live stream commentator, to discuss the benefits of proper long-lining techniques.

Members enjoyed the following takeaways:

• "When you introduce a concept to your horse you create an impression for life. That we should study to be as discriminating with applying touch as horses are at sensing it"
• "Just the affirmation that horses aren't resistant. If they aren't doing something is either that they don't understand, or they physically can't."
• "How to get started. The arrangement of the reins, standing to the inside of the horse and starting by doing just walk-halt-walk."
• "I don't have a high level dressage horse, nor am I a high level rider, but I thought it was interesting."
• "I might explore some of the acupressure points that were mentioned."

Kathy Connelly is an international dressage rider, trainer, coach and USEF “S" judge, USDF Instructor Certification Examiner and live stream commentator for national and international competitions, including the 2010 World Equestrian Games and annually for the USEF Festival of Champions and the USEF/USDF National Finals in Lexington, Kentucky.

A world-wide ambassador for the sport of dressage, Kathy is known for her amicable and approachable nature, integrity, good sportsmanship, and concern for the well-being of every horse and rider. Kathy's experience in equestrian sport is deep and wide-ranging. At 19 years old, she rode on the Silver medal USPC “A” 3-day-event team in Sydney, Australia, after being US National Champion. She later rode on the US Dressage team at the World Cup in Sweden and at the North American Championships. Kathy has guided/coached many riders to success, including a Canadian competitor to a Silver individual Medal in the Pan American Games. She also coached at the World Cup in Sweden and served as co-chef d’equipe for the US Dressage Team at Hickstead, England.

Kathy has always believed strongly in the importance of continuing education in classical dressage. She worked extensively with Herbert Rehbein in Germany and brought her Grand Prix horse to Austria to study long lining with Ernst Bachinger, a former Director of the Spanish Riding School, focusing on advancing her understanding of the horse's state of mind in the advanced levels of collection required for piaffe and passage.

In addition to training and coaching, Kathy has served on the USEF/USET High Performance Committee as Vice-Chair prior to its incorporation into the USEF Dressage Sport Committee; she was appointed co-chair of this committee in 2016. She has been Chair of the USEF Dressage Selectors Committee since 2016, involving team selection for the Olympics, World Games, and Pan American Games. Kathy has also published numerous articles in top dressage publications. Her latest book, The Art of Long Lining is forthcoming from Trafalgar Square Press.

Join the crew at NEDA Know How as they chat with the always wonderful Shannon Dueck about how to best prep your horse for the flying change.

Members always enjoy sessions with Shannon, and in this particular session reported the following highlights:

• "This seminar with Shannon encouraged me to watch more slow motion videos and to find a schoolmaster to learn more with. Her presentation with the progression of exercises encouraged me to go back to a few patterns to pursue with more clarity to develop my own feel and timing."
• "I appreciated how Shannon gave exercises that would be used at every level, especially the lowest levels, and explained how they prepare a horse for the flying change. She explained the position of the horse and why we apply aids in those positions, which would help the horse to understand what we are asking, and help us to get the desired outcome. She explains in a way that makes sense to someone who has never ridden those movements, and gives us a plan to work with, both for ourselves and our horses."
• "I enjoyed Shannon's diagrams of the lower level exercises for building the skills needed for the flying changes."
• "Like - everything! It was so clear and inspiring and she made it seem like average horses and riders still have value and it made me want to go ride tomorrow even though it’s going to be -0."
• "I’m not close to teaching changes to my horse but I found the exercises used to prepare very helpful. Knowing how to prepare for changes in the future will help make sure I’m going about his training correctly. Hopefully I’ll be able to use more of what she went over as he progresses."
• "she was great! Such helpful suggestions, too many to single one out"

Shannon Dueck is a lifelong equestrian who moved to New England from Vancouver in 1997 to get closer to great dressage opportunities. She has represented Canada internationally at the Pan Ams, WEG and the World Cup on self-trained horses, and coaches internationally as well.

She now resides in Loxahatchee Florida where she runs Dueck Dressage Training and is lucky enough to count Carl Hester as one of her coaches. NEDA members are currently following along with Shannon in our monthly periodical as she trains with Carl overseas with the help of a NEDA scholarship!

Join the NEDA Know How facilitators as they chat with George and Noel about the development of our youth.

Members reported enjoying the following aspects of the session:

• "Nice to see how real ( down to earth ) they are. No big egos."
• "We are each on our own journey"
• "Really liked the discussion comparing learning on a schoolmaster to learning as you go to both gain skills and train skills."
• "Excellent speakers, very thoughtful presentation."
• "Make sure the juniors know the basics of horsemanship"

George Williams has dedicated his life to the sport of dressage, having competed both nationally and internationally at the highest levels. He began his riding career in Europe and trained with the Tempel Lipizzans for almost 20 years. He then proceeded to represent the U.S. Dressage Team in international competition in the early 2000s with appearances at FEI World Cup Finals and Aachen. With Rocher, Williams finished fifth in the 2003 FEI Dressage World Cup in Sweden and also was a member of the bronze medal team at the 2005 CHIO Aachen. He served as the US Equestrian Dressage Youth Coach, as well as the High Performance & Pathway Development Advisor. Williams is also currently serving an unprecedented fourth term as President of the United States Dressage Federation.

Growing up around classical and high-performance dressage, Noel Williams has been riding and competing all of her life with an Olympic Dream at heart. She has trained and competed numerous horses from young horses to FEI Grand Prix. Noel aspires to continue her career on the international stage and to represent Team USA in competition. Noel's greatest passion is developing young horses and campaigning them through the CDI levels.

Noel is currently located in Wellington, Florida, where she is training with her parents, US Youth Coach and former US team member, George Williams, and FEI trainer Roberta Williams, while operating her own dressage training and sales business. Noel is a USDF Bronze, Silver, and Gold Medalist, as well as a USEF “r” judge, a member of the 2007 NAJYRC Silver Medal team (Region 2), and the 2005 USEF Junior Dressage Team Championships Gold Medalist. Noel was also the 2005 USEF Junior Dressage National Champion.

Join the NEDA Know How chew to chat with Francois Kasselmann about the qualities to make up a good dressage horse.

Members reported the following takeaways:

• "The importance of not overdoing it with a young horse so as not to burn them out later on."
• "It was very enlightening to learn of Kasselman's business and the careful way they bring along young horses. I am currently not in the market for another horse, but I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of presentation."
• "I didn’t realize before how commercialized the warm blood marketing is in Europe, and in the rest of the world. Also gave me an appreciation for the dedication. These breeders have to the improvement of the breeds and care for how these horses will be treated and used and cared for after their sale"
• "I won't be purchasing or breeding a horse, but the information about selecting quality horses is always interesting."

Ullrich Kasselmann's world-famous auction - Performance Sales International (PSI) - was founded in 1980 in the U.S.A. in partnership with Paul Schockemöhle. Kasselmann and Schockemöhle reached out to the USA to offer horses from the largest breeding areas in Europe for sale. They chose promising, well-trained young horses that could easily suit the American training and competition circuit. This year the German dressage horse dealing family felt the time was right to establish a winter base in Florida to stay closely connected with their contacts, clients, and friends.

Born into a family so passionate about horses, it seemed only natural that Francois Kasselmann would follow in his parent’s footsteps. Successful at European Championship level himself Francois Kasselmann is actively involved in the training and sales operations at Hof Kasselmann and has also taken on chief executive responsibilities in recent years.

Join the NEDA Know How moderators in this informational session on equine nutrition.

Members valued the following:

• "I'm glad it wasn't an infomercial. She conveyed a lot of useful information and the NEDA questions were good."
• "Dr Motet was fabulous! Super knowledgable and great at sharing things in a logical way, while also answering more challenging and detailed questions!"
• "NEDA invariably finds very good speakers, but Rachel was very professional and knew how to pace herself so that the audience could easily follow along and take notes."
• "I was fascinated to learn about legumes, such as alfalfa. I knew that they are higher in protein but had no idea that they are lower in non-structural carbs."

Dr. Rachel Mottet, MS, PhD, is an Equine Nutritionist for Hygain and owner of Legacy Equine Nutrition. She earned her B.S. in Equine Science from the University of Wisconsin River Falls, her M.S. in Animal Science from North Dakota State University and her PhD in Nutrition and Animal Science from the University of Minnesota. Her PhD work focused on the prebiotic effects of a yeast fermentate in a simulated gastric environment, in addition to work with prebiotic fiber, inulin, and its effects on gastrointestinal tolerance and satiety.

Professionally, Rachel has worked with horses owners all over the world in roles as an invited lecturer, college professor, and consulting equine specialist for numerous equine nutrition companies She has worked with FEI and Olympic competitors in numerous disciplines and has successfully formulated diets for thousands of horses. Her recent invited lectures include stops in New Zealand, Australia, South Africa and all over the United States with an emphasis on dietary intervention for various equine gastrointestinal conditions.

Dr. Mottet currently owns and operates her equine nutrition consulting business and teaches equine nutrition courses to veterinarians and equine professionals. She has worked with clients in nearly every continent of the world and is currently focusing equine nutrition education efforts in several European countries. She is active in the competitive equestrian world of hunter/jumper and owns two horses and a dog. She lives on a farm in Ocala Florida and spends free time watching competitions at the local World Equestrian Center.

Join the NEDA Know How facilitators in one of the best-reviewed sessions of 2023, chatting with Nick Wagman.

Members reported really valuing the following aspects:

• "I thought it was great, the speaker was willing to talk about how he [dealt] with restoring his confidence after injuries. Most professionals tend to avoid this topic. As most of us who work with these large animals know, injuries do occur, and dealing with them is not easy. I valued his honesty. Great Session!"
• "I thought it was helpful to be reminded that when training, and a problem arises, to remember that tomorrow is another day. If the horse does not understand do what you can, and end the session in a positive way. That allows you time to mentally figure the next step, without wearing you and your horse out."
• "That riders even at the Olympic level experience anxiety while riding. He was so generous to share this. I do try to have a plan, but his tips were helpful."
• "It was just so helpful to hear about his struggles and how he has worked to overcome them! what a great opportunity to learn more about this special guy!!"

Nick Wagman is a California-based dressage rider. He represented the U.S. at the 2019 FEI Dressage Nations Cup – Geesteren, the Netherlands, and that same year at FEI Dressage Nations Cup™ France where The Dutta Corp. U.S. Dressage Team finished in bronze-medal position. On both teams, he rode his longtime partner, Beverly Gepfer’s Dutch Warmblood gelding Don John.

In 2019, Wagman won the USEF Developing Horse Grand Prix National Championship with Ferano and the USEF Grand Prix Dressage National Championship with Don John at the U.S. Dressage Festival of Champions. With Don John, Wagman collected second-place finishes in the CDI3* Grand Prix and Grand Prix Special during week five of the 2020 Adequan® Global Dressage Festival (AGDF).

In 2021, Wagman began the year by winning the CDI3* Grand Prix Special with Ferano during week three of AGDF. He rode Don Juan to wins in the CDI3* Grand Prix during week five and the CDI3* Grand Prix and Grand Prix Special during week eight at AGDF. Wagman and Don John collected a personal best score of 75.652% in the FEI Grand Prix at the U.S. Dressage Mandatory Observation Event.