December 2004 News

Merry Christmas and all the best for 2005!

We’ve had a great time at Flying Colours in December. This fall all the horses seem to have really put it all together and are happily learning new moves and refining the basics.

We all sat down and went through a goal setting exercise for our riding goals for 2005. Should be another exciting year ahead!

Angie Golley and I made a quick trip to Vancouver to audit the Norbert Van Laak Clinic December 8/9. This clinic was sponsored by Dressage Canada; High Performance Committee and Coaching Committee. Tom Dvorak has worked with Norbert in Germany and was scheduled to ride with him in Toronto with Fortissimo, Beaumarchais, and Westside Lady. I had heard very good things about his work and thought this would be a good learning opportunity. I was not disappointed. Norbert’s system of emphasizing good basics, understanding the physical development of the horse and keeping the well being of the horse first and foremost made the 2 day clinic exceptional. We brought home some excellent exercises and great insights. Hopefully, Mr. Van Laak’s next Western Canada tour will include a stop at Flying Colours with Albertan riders.

We had the luck of fitting in a clinic with Tom this December, as well. Everything went great and Lindsay Wassenaur won the Gold Star of the clinic for most improved horse with the rides she had on Gucci. She and Gucci are now sporting a new Flying Colours saddle pad for her excellent work. Tom doesn’t know the "in barn" competition that has now been started for upcoming clinics! I’m glad the "Gold Star" decision is his alone ‘cause I know the competition will be fierce! 2003 News Archive:

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2004
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