Dressage
"The object of Dressage is the harmonious development of the physique and ability of the horse. As a result it makes the horse calm, supple, loose and flexible, but also confident attentive and keen, thus achieving perfect understanding with his rider"
extract FEI rules
"Georgia Bruce riding Charmant"Calm, supple, loose and flexible, confident attentive and keen.
These qualities are revealed through:
- The Freedom and Regularity of the paces.
- The Harmony, Lightness and Ease of Movements.
- The Lightness of the Forehand and the Engagement of the Hindquarters.
- The acceptance of the bridle, with submission throughout and the absense of any tension or resistance.
- The horse gives the impression of doing of his own accord what is required of him.
"Georgia Bruce riding Prince Rasheyd"- The horse should remain absolutely straight in movements on a straight line.
- The horse should bend accordingly when moving on curved lines.
- The walk should be regular, free and unconstrained.
- The trot should be free, supple, regular, sustained and active.
- The canter should be united, light and cadenced.
- The hindquarters should be active, and responsive to the rider, thereby giving life and spirit to the rest of the horses body.
- The horse should obey willingly, and without hesitation. Responding to the various aids calmly and with precision.
- The horse should be on the bit, with neck raised and arched according to the stage of training. This should be in all movements, even at the halt.
- The head should remain in a steady position, with the nose slightly in front of the vertical and the poll at the highest point of the horses neck.
- The horse should move with lively impulsion, with supple and flexible joints.
Georgia and Voodoo in Athens