Posted January 26, 2007

Spotlight on Young Horse Training With Katrin Burger Part 1
By Charlene Strickland
Introduction by Deborah Hausman

Thanks to DressageDaily I was informed of the Katrin Burger clinic held in Temecula California. I quickly booked a flight and hotel and found that was worth every penny spent and minute of my time.

After competing in the Young Horse Program in Europe this summer I returned with great concern on the differences of how their horses are trained and judged as opposed to our system. Kathrin was intent on making sure that every horse was forward and swinging in the back. She maintained very high standards and insisted that the riders do the same. It was all about developing quality gaits and teaching the horses correct basics.

Because I have the luxury of training frequently in Europe I have a good understanding of what she wanted to see. For those that are unable to travel to Europe this was by far the closest experience they may ever have to what it's really like to work with someone of Kathrin's caliber. Kathrin wasn't "wisked" away at lunch. She sat and continued to discuss the rides even during her break. The teaching never stopped. The only thing that could have made it better was not to run out of daylight!
Debouah Hausmann - Quailhurst Farm, Oregon

Photo: marycornelius.com