Fox Hunter Safety Clinics
(Mark your calendars - clinics resume in August!)
To quote Larry Byers, Ex. MFH Santa Fe Hunt, and current Whipper-In for the Aiken hounds, “It is always good to be reminded that hunting is an inherently dangerous sport. Time spent in these clinics is invaluable to both seasoned and beginner foxhunters, as it’s quite easy to become complacent about things, which can lead to mishaps!”
 Purpose of Clinics
The purpose of the Fox Hunter Safety Clinics is EDUCATION – raising rider awareness, thereby promoting better sport. All are welcome to attend – from the maiden foxhunter to experienced horses and riders. We are confident that our clinic can provide a valuable learning experience for beginners, green horses, jumping, non-jumping and seasoned hunt pairs alike.
Topics Covered
Safety, Balance, Control, Confidence, and Fun are the prerequisites to a great day of hunting. The Fox Hunter Safety Clinics are about identifying - and practicing - those skills repeatedly.
Safety - Learning how a horse thinks and processes various tests put before him is discussed. “Kicking zones,” for example; or how to handle hounds and high traffic both at speed... and standing still. Remember...the most important thing about the "GO is the WHOA."
Balance - Stopping, half halting, learning SPECIFICALLY what parts of the body the RIDER has to use to influence the horse. This is done initially at the walk and then progresses to galloping and jumping both separately and in groups simulating hunting conditions.
Control & Confidence - Without one you cannot have the other. Much of our work is done on hills where these issues tend to be tested.
Clinic Format
- One Clinic consists of three (3) two-hour sessions held once per week for three weeks.
- Sessions are limited to five (5) riders per session.
- Riders are expected to pay in full by the first session. Cost is $195.00.
- After the initial three sessions, riders may re-apply for another clinic, or individual/private instruction for $65/session
- Clinics can be arranged in other hunt countries as well with groups being divided according to rider requests and abilities.
Register
Rider Testamonials
Lellie's clinics have been a Godsend for me (and my horse, C'est La Vie) Making the transition from jumpr rider to foxhunter was a challenge for both "Vie" and and myself, but Lellie systemically addressed all of our issues.
My horse was very keen and Lellie taught us how to calm "our nerves," which no other trainer had ever been able to accomplish successfully. Changing our footfalls over rough terrain was another invaluable key to our safety and my body position was improved.
With humor and great patience, Lellie helped us both make great strides with each lesson. I never thought my horse could respond like she does now in the field. No matter what is going on, she is a steady foxhunter and absolutely loves her job, which makes her so much more fun for me to ride. I am very grateful for Lellie's crosscountry experience as well as her knowledge as a Master of the Hunt to learn from! - Dawn B.
Using the Hitchcock Woods as our classroom and arena, the safety clinics did wonders for both my riding and my young draft horse's balance. Lellie's “hands-on” approach to teaching gave me skills I can use now and forever - especially here in the woods with its varied terrain, traveling in a large group of horses trotting and galloping. My awareness of riding safely in a group of horses has taken a one hundred-eighty degree turn from where I started two years ago!
The Highlights of the clinic for me were: Kicking Zones defined and how to stay out of them. Exercises to make my horse GO at all speeds and WHOA much more effectively. By changing my position in the saddle (sitting further back on my seatbones and riding riding with a stronger seat into softer hands),I can have a much safer ride in the saddle while keeping my horse more balanced. - Suzanne B.
I had no idea what to expect when I signed up for Lellie’s Foxhunter Safety Clinic but had a great time participating and learning. Her exercises in control and planning for the unexpected benefit everyone and Lellie knows how to build confidence in all riders regardless of their skill level. She quickly finds the “weak link” in every rider and mount and always brings a solution to each problem. Lellie definitely challenges her students while her sense of humor always makes the experience a lot of fun.
Ultimately, I feel more comfortable hunting with people who have taken Lellie’s clinic, as they have a solid foundation, can manage to control their horses, and understand hunting etiquette, which makes for a fun and safer experience for all. Everyone can gain something from taking this clinic. Thanks, Lellie! - Lynn Kramp
I found that by using my seatbones more and in a different way, I could influence and control my horse better. I also learned more about the timing of my aids to more effectively influence my horse. Kicking my horse for better communication was new to me as well. Before, I was worried if I kicked him too hard, something bad would happen - Now I can feel a positive response from my horse which has given me a new confidence. I also really appreciated the practice we did riding in high traffic zones!
- Sharron R.
Balance is what it's all about for me. I can’t tell you how much fun I am having. I started out five years ago in the Hilltopper's and have now moved up to the second flight. At this point, I can’t stand passing the jumps as I can now envision myself jumping soon with confidence with the rest of the field. I can’t wait!. - Christy S.
Time spent in Lellie's clinics is invaluable, whether the participants are seasoned foxhunters or new to the sport. The Foxhunter Saftey Clinics recreate the environment
of which we should all be aware. Many seasoned hunters become complacent about things which can lead to mishaps, It is always good to be reminded that Foxhunting is an inheirently dangerous sport. The Foxhunting Saftey clinics are very definitely a good thing! - Larry B. |
