Putting the future of the sport of dressage in the spotlight, the Dressage Convention 2013 will see dressage superstars Carl Hester and Richard Davison play hosts to an event designed to give the dressage community insight into today's international training methods.
In a show case of practical sessions, lecture demos, panel discussions and much more, Carl Hester describes the event as "a great opportunity for like-minded people to discuss different approaches to training the dressage horse.”
Hosted at Bury Farm in Buckinghamshire on 19 - 20 October 2013, the two-day event aims to combine the knowledge of some of the world's leading trainers and riders and open the field for further exploration and discussion of new ideas and philosophies about dressage in the modern age.
"We wanted to bring a different dimension to the usual format of training clinics and seminars by providing high level technical information but in a relaxed and fun environment," says host Richard Davidson. "Carl Hester and I have found that this is the way to optimise learning."
Over the years the Olympic duo have been struck by the fact that the dressage community is very quick to focus on the differences in training methods, rather than what systems or trainers have in common. "We've found the underlying principles of good sound training are the same and the difference only slight. We wanted to provide a platform for learning and exchanging experiences and ideas and so the Dressage Convention was born."
Intended as a convention that is not only accessible to everyone but that will demonstrate how and why great training works for all horses.
"We will witness training sessions ranging from novices to Olympic stars," Davison explained. "We intend to focus on the practical and provide training sessions using a variety of horse types but we also want to allow time for discussion and feedback."
On a mission to break down any existing barriers to dressage training, Richard wants that people to go away from Bury Farm with a road map that highlights the priorities of training and sets out easy to follow goals. "One of the features of The Dressage Convention is that we want guests to get up close and personal with the presenters and the informal ‘Supper with the Stars’ evening on the Saturday night will give spectators the opportunity to ask questions and seek advice in smaller groups.
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With Portuguese Olympic rider and trainer Miguel Ralao Duarte and author of "The Classical Seat" Sylvia Loch invited as special guests, Richard feels these two well-respected trainers will add a different dimension as they discuss their approaches and experiences. "We want the event to be totally inclusive and just because we are in the world of international competition doesn’t mean to say we don’t appreciate good horsemanship of any kind, because we do. Sylvia and Miguel will perhaps be able to highlight some differences between say training the Iberian horse and the modern-day warmblood, particularly given their long history with classical training.
Miguel Ralao is from the Portugese School of Equestrian Art and is also a former Portuguese team rider, so we believe he will give spectators an interesting insight into his foundations for success. Sylvia is a highly renowned classical trainer and author of The Classical Seat and is an insightful speaker who will give the audience a chance to discuss what underpins her methods.
A new concept and format for UK dressage enthusiasts and convention goers, the event will appeal to everyone who has an interest in dressage or training at any level, in any discipline, and as for special guests? "Well when you ask about 'special guests' does it get anymore 'special' than the reigning double Olympic Champion and European Champion ? Charlotte DuJardin will be riding for us and joining in throughout the programme But who knows there might be other surprise guests that turn up too," said Richard.
For Eurodressage, one journalist will be in saddle and the butterflies are already beginning to swarm, as Sarah Warne will take the arena on her Lusitano stallion Batialo. Readers can stay tuned for an inside look at the convention and what exciting things will take place at Bury Farm, Buckinghamshire, in just over 6 weeks time.
Photos © Rui Pedro Godinho - Astrid Appels
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