US Eventing Coach David O’Connor. Photo by Ivegotyourpicture.com.
With rough winter weather flogging much of the country, it’s definitely a good year be in the south. Many snowbirds flock to Florida for the ability to ride, train, and compete in the winter, but Ocala also offers some fantastic unmounted educational opportunities. Here’s what the USEA has lined up in the next month:
February 3-5: High Performance Training Sessions (Meredyth South)
Always a favorite, this is the first chance to get a look at the Florida-based riders on the Winter training list working with David O’Connor. Most horses and riders will be knocking the winter rust off, likely with some simpler exercises to build focus and rideability. Open to all for auditing– it’s like free lessons, while stalking your favorite big-name riders and horses. [Complete Training Sessions Schedule – all locations] [Winter/Spring Training List]
February 10-11: Instructor’s Certification Program Ocala Symposium (Longwood South)
The ICP Symposium is a fantastic learning opportunity designed for coaches and trainers– but as a student, you’ll get a lot out of it, too. Dressage sessions are scheduled for Feb. 10 with Canadian eventing dressage coach Jacqueline Brooks, and includes riders and horses from all levels. Jumping will be on Feb. 11 with successful US show jumper Aaron Vale. $50/day for general public, or $90/both days. $35/day for ICP members, $60/both days. [Click here for more info]
February 24-25: High Performance Training Sessions (Meredyth South)
As the second sessions on the calendar, expect some progression from horses and riders– a little more intense dressage or jumping work with coach David O’Connor. With the WEGs at Normandy coming up this fall, the training sessions will be extra important this year. Open to all for auditing. [Complete Training Sessions Schedule – all locations] [Winter/Spring Training List]
February 24-25: Young Event Horse and Future Event Horse Seminar (Longwood South)
The seminar will include lectures and presentations by experienced breeders and judges Susan Graham-White, Marilyn Payne, Robin Walker, and Maren Engelhardt. The session will introduce judges, competitors, and interested parties to the Future Event Horse and Young Event Horse programs. This event is a landmark educational event for breeders, competitors/exhibitors, judges, and anyone passionate about young horses and their development. In addition to the lectures, the seminar will include live in-hand and ridden demonstrations for the FEH and YEH portions, respectively. [Click here for more info] This seminar is free to USEA members.
March 3-4: High Performance Training Sessions (Meredyth South)
Horses and riders gearing up for Red Hills will surely be getting in some final prep work with David O’Connor at the last Florida training sessions. Again, auditors welcome! [Complete Training Sessions Schedule – all locations] [Winter/Spring Training List]
