World-renowned trainer, rider and Chef d’Equipe of the United States Show Jumping Team, George H. Morris, conducted his annual clinic at Canterbury Farm over Thanksgiving weekend. Riders from across the nation gathered for the event to experience his expertise and invaluable knowledge first-hand. Chicago-based trainer Diane Carney of Telluride Farm, which is based out of Canterbury Farm, organized the entire event, and has for over twenty years.
A world-renowned horseman, Morris has played a crucial role, not only in the growth of countless prestigious horses and riders, but also in the development of the current equestrian sport. He has often been referred to as the “founding father” of hunt seat equitation. Second to none, his teachings, technique, and style are admired around the world. His clinics are a rare and exceptional opportunity for riders of all levels and ages to learn from the finest, and according to Morris, the clinic held at Canterbury Farm achieved just that.
To see highlights from the 2010 clinic, click here
Held November 25-27, 2011, the clinic consisted of 22 riders and an estimated 200 auditors. The students were separated into three different sections: 1.10 m, 1.25 m, and 1.40 m. When Carney first began riding with Morris, she rode in all three sections to be able to get the most out of the clinic. “I’ve been conducting this clinic there for years, she’s run my clinic for years, and she’s a real professional and is very organized,” Morris explained. “Her stable, the rings, the fences and the quality of the riders are impeccable. This clinic is one of my highest level clinics, Diane has a lot of professional auditors and it is apparent that the people that rode there are very disciplined.”
“George is the best of the best,” Carney explained. “He cares so much about the current state of the industry, and he works to improve it anyway he can. George teaches us about the construction of the fences, horsemanship, and why different fences are important. He sets problems for horses and riders to solve. This builds confidence and keeps the sport advancing upward.”
Photos By: Phelps Media Group, Inc.