Anwen Lovett’s Daisy in Paris, a 7-year old mare by Don Federico was ridden to perfection by Edward. "Come on Edward, shows us that extended trot" Hans Peter requests. Edward commented, “All the basic work is the same, irrespective of age. Don’t always do changes out of counter canter, sometimes do it on a diagonal. In the canter pirouettes go for a few good strides and if the tempo changes or you lose rhythm, go out of it.”

A few select riders and their talented horses were selected for this year’s Master class at Equitana in Sydney last weekend. It was good to see 5 of the 7 demonstration horses were Hanoverian. The Dutch Dressage specialists Edward Gal and Hans Peter Minderhoud, gave a series of mini-clinics during the Masterclass on the Saturday morning.

Victoria shows off Brentanus tempi changes to perfection.

Victoria Welch and Brentanus (by Brentano II) who is now solid at Medium/Advanced level. Working on the ‘forward’ principle, they finished their lesson with a stunning extended trot.

The ‘basics’ featured heavily during the training sessions.  “Regardless of the level of the horse, we always go back to the basics in our warm up"
They also stressed the importance and  benefits of changing the tempo within the the pace. “Change the tempo within the pace often. If the horse wants to run, slow him down, but he must always feel  a forward tendency, even the in reinback'.  

The crowd was treated to Brett Parbery, riding the 10-year old advanced level gelding, QEB Good As Gold (by Gymnastic Star) It was apparent right from the begining Brett has a good relationship with the Dutch instructors.

Having the horses really bent was another strong point of the instructors. Along with not allowing yourself to throw away marks. "Make each and every diagonal as long as you can"

Connie Bookless was generous to loan her talented Grand Prix horse Gymstar One (by Gymnastik Star). Hans Peter was quick to take up the opportunity on such a tall (17.3) scopey gelding. Gymstar One showes awsome talent for piaffe passage all while doing a splendid job of coping with the international type atmosphere. The applause at the end of the demonstration was well deserved.

Hans Peter enjoying the tempi changes of his Grand Prix ride.

Pictures courtesy Roger Fitzhardinge  
http://www.rogerfitzhardinge.com/