F and I Study Day with Judy Harvey

On Monday 8th May, 11 members of the F and I association and friends spent a very fruitful day with Judy Harvey. The morning session was filled with an eclectic mix of five horses, working at different levels, ranging from retired racehorses to a very game grey cob. These were followed by 3 superstar horses ridden by Judy’s working pupils and a client.

Judy’s insightful observations and suggestions were ‘to the point’ and resulted in improvements with all the horse/rider combinations. The common thread was the need to ‘wait with energy’ in the paces and movements and allow the horse time to find its balance. Much emphasis was placed on working on the problems that arose, quietly and with empathy, through understanding the strengths and weakness of the horse.

It was a pleasure to see all the horses quietly grow and improve, even if they had to work through ‘difficult’ patches. This was achieved by very astute and clear direction from Judy and sympathetic riding by all the riders.

There was also much input and banter from the ringside gallery. The ‘Gold Star’ was awarded to Sally the grey cob and ridden by Ann Bostock for the best flying changes of the day.

A big thank you to Judy for welcoming us to her yard for the day and filling the day with knowledge and understanding. And a big thank you to Ann for organising the day.

Report by Richard Evans