Interview

We caught up with prominent trainer and judge Penny Hollings, who says understanding your horse is key to a rider’s progress.

Penny, what can riders expect from your clinics at Beaver Hall?

I watch and assess riders, then explain adjustments they can make to get better results from their horse. I work at the comfort level of my riders to help them build on their technique and to reach their goals. Which could be anything from a canter around the arena, to entering an ambitious competition.

How do you do that?

I encourage people to take full responsibility for what their horse does. Often, they’re simply reacting to the signals a rider gives, without realising. It’s up to the rider to become aware of this.

Should riders focus more on communication?

In my experience, yes. It’s about making the animal happy and comfortable, only then is it ready to perform at its best without distraction.

Thanks Penny! Call Beaver Hall on 01538 304 433 to learn at Penny’s clinic on June 11^th.