Clinics
The seventy-five plus participants who attended the two day clinic held by the Illinois Walking Horse Association on April 17 & 18 experienced an enjoyable and informative weekend. The clinic was given by Angelika Van Meeteren, who has worked with horses since she was six years old. She is certified in English riding and English instruction, and her passion is Classical Dressage. She believes that the partnership between horse and rider is one of the most important aspects of riding and training. Her methods can improve the performance of any horse breed and their riders.
Thirteen horses and their owners and/or riders were in attendance. Angelika met with each rider and horse on Friday to discuss questions or problems with the horse or rider. This tailored the clinic to fit their needs. Her focus during the clinic was to use minimal aids.
On Saturday, Angelika showed how ground work helps in the development of muscle structure for the proper rounding of the horse to help enhance the gait, how to communicate with the horse, how to teach horses to respect space, and showed correct longeing of horses.
On Sunday, Angelika showed how to properly fit a saddle for horse and rider, how to achieve the proper position for the rider, and how to stay balanced and relaxed, thus forming a partnership with the horse and rider to enable a natural, fluid movement.
Angelika can be reached by email at avm_taleno@yahoo.com or through her cell phone 309-275-4169.
We want to thank all of those who brought their horses and those who participated and helped in putting on such a well-received event.
Submitted by Larry and Vonda Arvin