In Motion Sport Horses, LLC
Dressage Training , Instruction and Campaigning | Starting Sport Horses with Balance and Forward Movement | Horse Training Granit Bay, Orangevale, Fair Oaks CA | Hand Made Lead Ropes

Tinkerbell debuted at Third Level at this show.  You’ll see some blunders, but even with those in the test, she scored a 65.455% and won the class.  Just think what her scores will be as the training continues and she becomes more solid.  Please disregard the added entertainment in the filming.  I was disappointed to see there wasn’t a professional videographer at the show.  So, a dear friend borrowed a tablet, which she didn’t know how to operate, in order to capture my rides.

http://https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoW4DNEF4dE

Tinkerbell showing Second Level, Test 3, resulting in a second place with a score of 67%

This talented youngster is GREAT minded. Cisco can have a week off, saddle up and ride right off. He currently stands 14.1, but is still growing. Professionally started and has 60 days under saddle. He is 1/2 Arab and 1/2 Cob, registered and has lifetime nominations in the Arab registry.

Tinkerbell and I were among several pairs selected to be Demo riders for the fall symposium. What a privilege to ride with Janet Foy and Debbie McDonald! It was a wonderful learning opportunity. In addition to that, it was great to listen to their opinions on what a lovely dressage prospect Tinkerbell is. Enjoy the videos as you learn what to look for when you search for a dressage prospect.

http://https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EvMzO84awfU

http://https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KxlU3RybXhY

http://https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Xqu_oE5GTc

September always brings the Oregon Dressage Society State Championships. This year I had the privilege to compete Tinkerbell, a 6 year old Oldenburg mare, belonging to Catherine Ulrey of Salem OR, at First Level.

A Grand Entrance

On Friday, we showed Second Level Test 2, Tinkerbell’s 3rd time of competing at Second Level.  The overall test went well, with us falling apart at one point, earning just a 4 when she lost her lead in the counter canter.  She still received a score of 68.077%.

https://https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=11C4tqckr8c

Then the Championship Classes were on Saturday and Sunday.  We competed for a First Level Title in the Open Division.  Saturday we rode First Level Test 2 and scored 65.938%  Sunday we rode First Level Test 3 and scored a 69.118%.  For the championship is averaged between both tests.  We ended up 9th overall.

Carrie on Flawless at Willow Prairie horse camp. Joy is learning to be a good trail dog.

I must be one of the most privileged trainers on the planet!  Just look at the view from my saddle today!  

Westlife and Carrie on an afternoon trail excursion

I think keeping horses happy in their work is really important.  One of my approaches to accomplishing this is by cross training.  No matter what discipline a horses training is focus upon, trail rides are so beneficial for the horse.  The horse must use different muscle groups for this type of work and certainly the horses balance is improved on, as well.  The exposure to a new and changing environment is also stimulating to the horses mind.  I think this really helps to keep the horses mind fresh and interested in work. 

A single file bridge crossing. Carrie and Parley

Currently I can tack-up and trail ride right out of the barn.  This certainly makes it simple to add trail riding as part of my cross training.  If you must load up and haul to trail ride, I still recommend doing so.  The extra added effort will pay off in the long run of keeping your horses mind and body refreshed.  It is always best if you can use the buddy system to trail ride.  Not only does this provide an amount of back-up, should one of you run into trouble, but multiple horses and humans get out to enjoy the scenery!

Trail riding with friends is always more fun! Pictures taken from my “quad-pod”! — Parley

Heres a video of Westlife WSF over fences. He is an 8 year old, imported, Silver Certified Haflinger stallion. He stands 14.2. He is a talented little package of horse! Westlife loves to jump and has a lot of scope. He is priced at $12,500.

In the midst of the Southern Oregon inferno, what better equine activity than to jump!

Westlife ~ First day over the quarter round

Here is Westlife WSF. He is an imported, Silver Certified Haflinger Stallion.  Westlife is 8 years old and stands 14.2 hands tall.  He has recently been introduced to jumping and LOVES it!  He is FOR SALE and priced at $12,500. as a stallion, less as a gelding.

Now over the picket we go!

Under bright blue skies with a slight breeze, riders and horses are gathered for a small league show in Tulelake, CA.  My mounts for the day were Haflingers Flawless WSF and Serpico WSF.  This was the first show for Flawless and Serpico’s first show stateside.

Flawless, a green three year old, competed at Intro Level in Test A and B.  She was calm, sensible and obedient being so young, green and in a completely new environment.  She won both of her classes with scores of  63% and 65%!  I am super proud of this upcoming star.  Flawless is currently in full-time dressage training.  She is so talented and has the potential for any sport horse discipline, as well as trail and pleasure riding.  If you are in the market for a highly trainable horse, Flawless could be your girl.

Flawless WSF warming up for her first test

Entering the ring

Serpico, a six-year-old stallion, was imported from Germany 3 years ago.  He was shown there as a three-year old and has been in dressage training and the breeding shed since arriving in the US.  He competed at First Level, Test 1 and 2.  He won both of his classes with scores of 60% and 61%! 

Serpico WSF beginning a 20 meter trot circle

A final salute!

Both of these Haflingers will be attending the Cascade Dressage I & II show next weekend at Tulelake!  Come join us if you can!

In Motion Sport Horses, LLC has acquired a new horse!  This is Calvin, a three year old Warmblood/TB cross.    He has already begun his elementary education here, and has learned to wear a saddle and bridle, lounge, tie, clip and be bathed.  Not bad for just two weeks of training.  He seems to be a smart and willing young guy with a sweet disposition.  With his lovely movement he is destined for the dressage show ring and perhaps with more maturity, the hunter ring as well. We’ll keep you up to date on Calvin’s progress.