2 PAIRS = FREE SHIPPING
2 PAIRS = FREE SHIPPING
We travelled to Europe in August, primarily for a family holiday but there was no way I was travelling that distance and not taking advantage of the opportunity to ride with one of the trainers from the Academic Art of Riding. So, I did some research and quickly settled upon a trainer in the north of Germany. It’s a bit of a risk choosing someone to work with when you know little about them, don’t know anyone who knows them and they’re so far away, but for some reason it just felt right.
“I’ve read the book too” she said, “what I asked you is, what do you feel?”. As soon as she said it, I knew I was in the right place.
‘She’ is Celina Harich, and the book she’s speaking of is, of course, Bent Branderup’s ‘The Academic Art of Riding (AAR) – a riding method for the ambitious leisure rider’. The bible of all those interested in … this kind of riding. If I am anything, I am an ambitious leisure rider and ‘feel’ has been my driving force for a very long time, and I was very happy to be there
This story is to be about my time with Celina at her riding school, but I need to briefly detail what exactly ‘this kind of riding’ is. To my mind it’s the approach that is the point of difference. It’s the belief that riding is seen as an art, rather than a sport or a discipline. Put simply, it’s just good riding; nothing new, nothing fancy. In fact it’s old. Very, very old and it honours the masters from a time long gone, but in some arenas of the world their work continues. With ‘this kind of riding’ there is no expensive equipment, no gimmicks, no gadgets and no tricks.
So often we see riders embrace a particular style zealously, and some of these styles have become somewhat of a cult, or a brand. I don’t see that to be the case with the AAR and indeed what appeals to me is that the ‘licensed trainers’ (of which Celina is one) appear to have adopted their own particular style, whilst adhering to the time proven methods. That, and the fact that they see each other as their peers, rather than their competition. Annually they come together to share their knowledge and help each other.
Celina is as passionate about learning as she is about teaching and I suspect, perhaps more so. After many years of attending the Academy it was Bent’s insistence that she share her knowledge. And indeed one of the fundamental ideals of the Knighthood is ‘Enlarging the circle of those who are dedicated to this art’, and on her own website she confesses her duty to pass on knowledge to future generations and to not keep it to herself.
More than once I watched as Celina helped a student who struggled with a technique or a concept. The horse was withdrawn from the lesson and stood with as a quiet observer with the rest of us, while we all waited patiently for them to work through it together. It was surprising how quickly the horse understood, once the rider did and was in a position to make their request properly. When the problem isn’t the horse why involve it. What a refreshing approach!
However what struck me as I watched was the way she worked. She moves with the grace of a dancer and the quiet concentration of someone totally absorbed in the moment. She has obviously mastered the technique of being present and works with resolute determination tempered with an understanding and acceptance. Quiet and thoughtful, but in the words of her intern, ‘she has much fire’.
The questions I’ve had since my return have been pretty much the same from almost everyone and mostly they can be answered pretty simply.
So, what did I learn? Heaps, but if I try to tell you specifically then the meaning would be lost.
I know this answer isn’t going to cut it, so I’ll expand a little. At Celina’s prompting I chose a particular subject I wanted to focus on. That was easy for me. I’ve been dedicated to developing my seat for a long while, having given up my saddle some time back, so my chosen subject was just that, the seat. Therefore, I spent my entire time with her on the lunge.
Now, tell me? What was your first thought when you read that, and why? I’d be really interested to know. You can leave a comment on the FB post or flick me an email if you prefer (please).
Celina encouraged me to use my time in the saddle for discovery. To feel and to experiment whilst she quietly made suggestions and observations then allowed me time to reflect and experiment again.
I’ve heard people disappointed about a lesson they’ve received because they haven’t learnt enough, or if the lesson didn’t address specifically what they wanted. However if we learn something that changes the approach we take to every single horse we encounter from that point forward, (whether it be on the ground or from the saddle), then we have indeed learnt something very valuable.
What I learnt was to keep asking questions but to look more to the horse for the answers. She’s guided me further along my road of self discovery. Her comment often was ‘hhhmmm, interesting’, giving no indication of whether my answer was correct, or incorrect. Because feel isn’t. But sometimes she would say ‘actually, that’s not what I see from the ground. Try this ... (whatever it may be), now what do you feel’. My response would usually be ‘Ah!’.
I think Celina would think she’s done her job well. I hope so, because she’s certainly had an impact. She has changed the approach I take to every single horse I encounter from that point forward.
Here’s just some of the questions that arose, and together we explored the answers:
Would I go back? In a heartbeat. Celina’s horses were patient and accommodating. Giving me enough to allow me to learn but withholding enough to insist that I learn.
Celina was generous and caring in her approach both in the arena and outside of it. You’ll find lots more about Celina here: www.celinaharich.com
October 28, 2022
Oh my ! that is so cool. I am always wondering about my seat but have never really stopped and thought ? been brave enough to try something different. what an amazing time for you. And the bit about removing the horse and working on the rider because its there misunderstanding that is breaking down the connection not the horse. How many times have we thought. " get of the horse and give it a break" when watching someone else struggle with a concept. And then we stand back and don’t say anything. I like this person’s thinking. You have given me food for thought. I will have to look into what you are getting up to lol. thanks for sharing your amazing experience. Carey.
October 28, 2022
Hi, Colleen, whenever I had a lesson it was all about the horse, get the horse on the bit, more forward in the trot, more jump in the canter etc, it wasn’t until I did a clinic into rider bio mechanics that was the light bulb moment for me, we did to be totally balanced as a rider to actually move in sync with the horse, your seat, sitting on your seat bones , being centred so you make it easy for the horse to carry you and easy for you to give the aids in a way that is not confusing for the horse, thank you for your Ride Proud name I understand how it means so much to you.
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When you get to my age, stealing a line from 90's pip songs is a test of memory but so fitting for this shirt. I'd seen Col wearing it, loved it and now I own it - and it does not disappoint!
Buttery soft, structured but stretchy, forgiving but fashionable and the absolute riot of colours and shapes made me smile as I opened the ever immaculately presented parcel.
This shirt makes a statement, and for me it says that I am old enough to disregard opnions on what is "suitable", strong enough to wear something that makes my heart sing and young enough to delight in the playfulness this shirt embodies.
It is going to get its perfect partnering with my Compass RIde Tights although, as autumn hits with a vengeance here in Tasmania, perhaps with thermal underneath!
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Everybody has commented on the design & I want to wear it every time I am out riding
So I am going to need more & will put the new Kaleidoscope at the top of the list.
Received the trail pants yesterday, rode in them today, very comfortable and a great fit. Thank you
Really comfortable riding jeans. Sizing is great, comfy waist, plenty of stretch, lots of grip in the saddle. They just feel good on!
These are by far the best riding jeans. They are so comfortable and have a flattering fit. They are soft and stretchy but durable. Colleen, at Ride Proud, was great to work with so I had the right size and style. Thank you ride proud for such a great product.
I am love the Aurora riding shirt.
The fit is perfect it is so soft and comfortable, and the design is stunning.
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Looks so dressy with the Compass Bootcut Tights
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I am absolutely thrilled with the Kaleidoscope riding shirt. It is so hard to not live in it. The fit is perfect it is so soft and comfortable, and the design is stunning.
The entire skirt is very well made. The sleeves are long for riding and the fit around the hips is flattering for mature figure. I like that the sleeves on the shirt tuck up under the wrist neatly for going to town when the extra length in not required.
I have been wearing this for going to town and appointments. Looks so dressy with the Compass Bootcut Tights. I like that the sleeves on the shirt tuck up to neatly for going to town when the extra length in sleeves not required.
Colleen recently shared this expression with me “straight to the poolroom!”
Everyone in Australia knows it from an old movie called the Castle. It is where all the best stuff goes. For me, this skirt falls in this category the best stuff.
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Nancy Dibert
October 28, 2022
Firstly, what an amazing experience! I feel so far from achieving the harmony you are seeking but my eyes and ears and heart are open. I would like to acknowledge Lynley Bolt who is in NZ and has been pivotal to opening my heart to the delicate communication possible with horses. I love hearing the journey of like minded artists – I’m no where near that status but I’m on the journey!