Classical Riding

To those unfamiliar with its philosophy, what exactly do we mean by classical riding, or 'classical horsemanship' and training? I am often asked for a clarification of these; what do such concepts mean? The word 'classical' has several definitions, but I feel the following is most appropriate to our context: 'characterized by simplicity, balance, regularity and purity of form' (The Collins English Dictionary); though 'harmony' would perhaps be a better word to use than 'regularity'. Classical riding and training is based on principles first laid down in antiquity, which have stood the test of time. This means nothing more or less than the training and riding of horses in accordance with nature; working towards mutual understanding, rather than resorting to force, in helping to restore the horse's natural balance and enhance his paces under saddle. The horse is seen as a friend and partner, rather than - as so often happens - as a rather stupid animal whose good nature and compliance may be turned to the rider's advantage in order to satisfy his or her ambition. The classical view is not, of course, restricted to those who call themselves 'classical'; but the basic tenet of Xenophon's teachings is central to classical ideals: 'For what the horse does under compulsion.....is done without understanding; and there is no beauty in it either, any more than if one should whip and spur a dancer. There would be a great deal more ungracefulness than beauty in either a horse or a man that was so treated'.

Perhaps the whole ethos of classical riding may be summed up by saying that it is not just about technique. It is, if you like, holistic in its approach. By exploring every aspect of the partnership between horse and rider, it becomes in effect a philosophy, a way of life.

Classical riding is not just for an elite band of horsemen who have 'discovered' the mysteries of horsemanship. It is for every rider who truly seeks harmony with their horse, no matter what their level of competence. If you want to know more, why not join

THE CLASSICAL RIDING CLUB

The Classical Riding Club was started in January 1995 by Sylvia Loch, as a means of bringing together like-minded people who were interested in a more philosophical approach to riding. This approach puts the happiness and pride of the horse above all else: even above winning and being seen to be successful. This does not mean that the CRC is anti-competition; on the contrary, it recognises that competition, when participated in for the right reasons, can be a very healthy way of giving oneself and one's horse a goal to aim for, and of proving the correctness of training and riding. However the CRC also recognises that the pressures of modern equestrian sport have all too often meant that the great classical values and traditions seem in danger of being forgotten or swept away, and it is these values and traditions that the CRC seeks to communicate and to help preserve.

The Classical Riding Club membership is composed of people from every walk of life, and with widely differing equestrian backgrounds and levels of ability. Members range from those who do not own or even ride horses, but simply have an interest in the classical philosophy, to those working at High School level, with every possible combination of ability and level of knowledge in between. Although the bulk of our members are resident in the UK, there are members as far afield as the USA and Australia, as well as mainland Europe. The CRC welcomes everyone with a genuine interest in the classical ethos, but above all its aim is to bring this ethos to the everyday rider to enhance our understanding of the horse.

The tangible benefits of the CRC are: a quarterly Newsletter which contains instructional articles, book reviews, members' letters, articles by members; as well as these the Newsletter carries details of demonstrations, seminars, open days, teach-ins, lectures etc. Membership of the CRC also gives members access to a general equestrian helpline, as well as expert advice via the network of regional Liaison Members. No matter what your query, you can be assured that some CRC member, somewhere, will have the answer. In addition, membership gives you discounts on CRC publications and entry fees to certain CRC events, plus information on new dressage tests (see below), as well as all events being held on behalf of the CRC.

There is also a list, available at a nominal charge, of Trainers/Instructors who have signed a declaration to say they promise to teach under the classical principles and ethos as laid down in the Club's Charter. This does not necessarily indicate that the club either knows or approves of these people, but at least it gives a chance to Members to find like-minded trainers in their area.

Also available are a series of dressage tests, devised by Sylvia Loch in consultation with a number of other experts. These are, more properly speaking, training tests, as their aim is to provide a true test of the correctness of a horse's (and rider's) training. Less emphasis is placed on accuracy of figures, and more on the horse's way of going, and particularly the manner in which it is ridden. These have been received very enthusiastically by both riders and judges. Copies of the tests are available from the CRC, again for a nominal charge.

The CRC is also very fortunate in numbering some internationally renowned trainers among its members, and in having as honorary members such illustrious persons as Brigadier-General Kurt Albrecht, former Director of the Spanish Riding School, and Arthur Kottas-Heldenberg, First Chief Rider of the Spanish Riding School.

The Classical Riding Club is a very friendly, informal organisation, whose members have proved more than willing to share ideas and information. Every member, no matter who they are or what they do, has something to bring to the organisation, as well as the potential to benefit from it.

If you wish to join, please write to: The Classical Riding Club, Eden Hall, Kelso, Roxburghshire, TD5 7QD Fax: 01890 830667

Or e-mail mailto:crcuk@ashtree33.freeserve.co.uk

Alternatively, why not visit the Classical Riding Club website at www.classicalriding.co.uk