Monday, May 23, 2005

2005 USEF/Markel Young Horse Dressage Central Selection Trial

Jennifer Conour and Theoden Learn From Judges

“As a rider, it is nice to get the help from a panel of judges to hear what your strengths, AND weaknesses are,” Conour told DressageDaily. “The young horse format is special as the judges must discuss and concur to give a score, rather then each judge just give their individual opinion, which may be influenced by personal preference.”

Conour who also trains Katie Stanton and Savannah in the six-year-old division has made the Young Horse Finals a goal now for the past 2 years. “It is my privilege to ride Phoebe Crane’s stallion, Theoden. Although he is 5, I am certain that he is already a grand prix horse just waiting for me to figure out the right buttons!! It seems there is nothing for me to teach him, as he figures out my new demands so rapidly. He is really the most rideable horse that I have ever been on. He has 3 solid and pure gaits. His canter is something to ride, very adjustable and so uphill, a real pleasure. Someone at the last show commented that even their grandmother could ride his canter.”