Carla Wennberg, coach, judge and FEI steward, introduces her Western Horsemanship video series with a free lesson about the mental preparation of the rider required to perform a horsemanship pattern at a show. Carla’s strategy for the success of her riders calls for repeated rehearsal and practice of the pattern. She suggests riders walk and talk the pattern on foot to get comfortable with the arena and to lay out the visuals to complete the pattern work. It is important for the rider to talk through their thought process so  any corrections can be made before getting on the horse. Proper mental preparation gives the rider confidence and helps them win events.

Running Time: 6 minutes and 53 seconds

Another great free video tidbit from ANRC Level 5 Rider, National Judge, and Steward Susan Deal! Often new riders need a guide in order to adjust the reins to the appropriate length.  This quick tip shows how strategically placed knots in the reins can be an invaluable tool to instill the proper feel of hand/mouth connection. These knots can replace colored reins when showing or hunting and also give a rider something to hold on to to keep them from slipping.

Running Time: 57 seconds