Dynamic demonstration distinguishes developing dressage
The demonstration showcased the development of horses from inexperienced to competition level with a focus on dressage and show-jumping.
Angus Burns
An exciting and unique opportunity to learn from a demonstration by one of SA’s top riders, Douglas Welsh took place over the weekend at Hilldrop BnB in Newcastle.
Douglas is the Chairman of the African Horse Sickness Trust, Chairman of Eventing KZN and board member of Eventing SA, an FEI ranked rider, internationally qualified course designer, high performance coach for South Africa, World Equestrian Games 2010 competitor and a Newcastle resident.
The demonstration showcased the development of horses from inexperienced to competition level with a focus on dressage and show-jumping.
Douglas used the skills of Polish instructor and judge, Olga Kopeniak to demonstrate various dressage applications followed by riders Chey Hunter, Julie Welsh, Megan Van De Linde and himself, branching into the practical application of various jumping techniques to the delight of the appreciative audience of more than 30 local equestrians.
The practical demonstration and lecture were followed by a short seminar focusing on African Horse Sickness (the disease, various symptoms, treatments and prevention) as well as horse care, various training techniques for jumping and concluded with an explanation of the new governance structures to be implemented by Government for all equestrian sports in SA.
The demonstration and seminar was followed by a light lunch which afforded the opportunity to meet and mingle with some of the most accomplished riders who reside in Newcastle.
The day was a resounding success and the emphasis on horse riders using properly qualified coaches and instructors was brought home through the impressive demonstration by Douglas and the other riders.
