The May 5-6th weekend witnessed the fourth annual training clinic in the Niagara Area featuring a well respected trainer, breeder and National Show Person, Mary Rizo-Patron.

Mary returned for her second consecutive year from Hacienda La Amistad in Ohio by popular request. Some of the many topics discussed included a demo on confirmation with a Rocky Mountain mare, who has shown some lowering of the spinal column due to several pregnancies. Mary outlined an exercise regimen to elevate the spine and strengthen her back for better rider support.

Other topics discussed were directed at stepping off on the right lead for better balance, teaching better balance for horse and rider, followed by a breed demo on an Icelandic provided by Chris Soeffner. Thanks to Chris for her attendance at this year's clinic and the excellent report she wrote for her Icelandic Newsletter.

All told, there were eight horses in attendance, six were Paso Finos, one Rocky Mountain horse and one Icelandic horse.

Mary's great communicative skills provided a wealth of information to everyone. On Saturday night we all enjoyed a Chinese Smorgasbord and some socializing together. (The party continued on late Saturday night!)

The clinic ended on Sunday afternoon with positive approval from everyone in attendance, and we all went home with lots of new information to improve our horsemanship. Thanks to all who participated with their horses and as well the ones who came as auditors. The clinic proved to be a huge success and we look forward to next spring when we can continue the training series in the Niagara Area.

Robert Darling

For corrections or additions email janet@myhorse.ca

Camilla Willings, Vice-President of the ECPFHA on her Paso Fino mare Finola de Herencia 4

3Mary Rizo Patron is our Paso Fino Trainer and Clinician. Mary is from Ohio, USA and owns Hacienda La Amistad. She is seen here on the young mare Libelulu de Fina Vista owned by Claire Cristo of Tail Wind Farm.

VIDEO OF LULU ~ 0.6 mb

Jennifer Tarrant on her seal point Buckskin Paso Fino mare Canadian Dama de Noche 4

VIDEO OF DAMA

Hi-speed 2.4 mb

Dial-up 0.28 mb

3Harry Mills on his Rocky Mountain mare Dakota.

Head study of Dakota 4

3Paso Fino gelding Sonador del Lambpaso and Gaye Spencer.

3Paso Fino mare Franchesca ridden by our clinician Mary Rizo-Patron.

VIDEO OF FRANCHESCA

Hi-speed 1.3 mb

Dial-up 0.2 mb