Saddle up for a relaxed ride
All about the Bling: Caitlin Henderson.
WHEN Caitlin Henderson climbed aboard a Clydesdale at the Easter Show six years ago, she knew her dancing days were behind her.
The 15-year-old from Sutherland started lessons at Helensburgh’s GTQ Stud and has gone on to place second at the national championships for Western Pleasure riding and do well at other state and national events.
“It’s all about the relationship with the horse,” Caitlin said as she put her Quarterhorse Chippy Chippy Shake through its paces.
Trainer Glen Stibbard, a champion rider himself, said Western Pleasure was a more relaxed style of equestrian and was popular with older clients as the horses were quieter.
“The horses are not as high energy,” he said. “They’re more suitable for clients who are a bit nervous.”
Western Pleasure competition features 10 events such as gates, bridges and other obstacles and riders could specialise in particular events.
Fellow trainer Vanessa Henderson (Caitlin’s mother) said Western Pleasure was a good sport for women who may have ridden in their youth but were not keen on “putting on the jodhpurs”.
“It’s a good way of coming back to the sport – and they can wear jeans!”
Mr Stibbard said GTQ Stud in Walker Street wasn’t all about competition and also offered training in the fundamentals, such as steering and stopping.
“A bit of basic training can give people confidence, even for trail rides,” he said.
GTQ Stud breeds and leases horses, offers ajistment and buys and sells horses.
“I saved five horses from the knackery the other weekend,” Mr Stibbard said. “It helps me and it helps them.”
For more information or to book a lesson, visit www.gtqstud.com or phone 0438 388 210.
