Botetourt County Horseman’s Association holds first Lunch & Learn event

A young participant gives her pony a hug during the ground phase of the natural horsemanship clinic.

A participant works on moving her horse’s forehand.

A participant listens to George Shaefer.

George Schaefer works with Tamla Nichols horse.

Karen Corvin works with her horse, Whiskey.

George Schaefer bends this horse’s head, patiently waiting for the horse to move his hind end.

Karen Corvin works with Whiskey.

Natural Horsemanship morning ground session.

Susan Byrd and Rain.

Whiskey

Clinician George Schaefer

Gabi Hooten works with her horse during the morning ground session.

George Shaefer demonstrates using his own horse during the clinic.

Tamla Nichols listens to George Schaefer speak on natural horsemanship techniques.

Gabi Hooten works with her horse.

If you wanted to get out for the day with your horse but not face the pressure of a horse show, the Botetourt County Horseman’s Association’s first Lunch & Learn event was a perfect spring outing.

While the weather was a little bit cool and misty, about 25 riders and their horses came out of Green Hill Park Equestrian Center to ride with local clinicians. George Schaefer taught both morning and afternoon Natural Horsemanship sessions. Gabi Hooten worked with riders on Classical and Western Dressage, and Dedi Spradlin offered jumping critiques and spoke about hunter etiquette. Some riders also used the trails at the park.

The day also included a lunch of grilled hotdogs with sides, and a chance to catch up with friends, look over used tack for sale.

BCHA is planning another Lunch & Learn event Oct. 1. Contact BCHAHorseClub@gmail.com for more information or if you are interested in being a clinician.

Below are more photos from the day. Click on a photo to make it larger.