The East Bay Chapter was proud to sponsor the New 2011 Test Symposium, held at the beautiful Yarra Yarra Ranch December 11th. As the event date drew near, it became clear that there was a tremendous excitement for this symposium – the responses were already well past 100 people and still coming in! The Chapter was fortunate to have two very experienced volunteers coordinating this event, Dayle Kuhn and Laurie Daniel-Smith, so as reservation requests came pouring in at record pace on the Equestrian Entries website, additional chairs, accommodations, tables and volunteers were rounded up and ready to meet the need. Last minute rider substitutions were graciously handled by Carolyn Adams and Ruth Shirkey, who each rode twice in the clinic to demonstrate several levels to our audience.
On Symposium day, over 135 attendees where check in and we were prepared with as many programs, test copies, chairs as well as tables to hold the generous bounty of yummy pot luck dishes and beverages people contributed to be enjoyed throughout the event.
The knowledge of our two judges, Creekey Routson and Heidi Gaian was very insightful, impressive and valuable. Practical advice was shared on how best to present your horses strengths and incorporate them into the new movements to maximize your scores. The energy between the two judges was extremely positive, entertaining and helpful. Creeky and Heidi efficiently and effectively fielded well structured questions from the audience between the demonstration rides.
Although the event was scheduled to last four hours, the afternoon seemed to go by quickly and many attendees stayed until the very last ride. Yarra Yarra Ranch was a perfect location to accommodate such a large, well attended event, and we thank Carolyn and Patrick Adams for being such kind hosts.
We were able to draw from the symposium a greater insight as to how a judge may view and score a test. Many attendees commented that they would like to learn more about the intricacies of judging and would enthusiastically attend a similar symposium concentrating on perhaps one or two levels at a time, or freestyles. The East Bay Chapter is excited to be offering many additional educational events such as this Test Symposium to our members in the very near future, so please visit the website often for updates!
Thank you Judges, Hosts and Test Riders!
Creeky Routson Heidi Gaian Patrick & Carolyn Adams, Yarra Yarra Ranch
Robin Katherman & Flea Mara Lee Parker & Wembly Gina Duran & LaLana
Carolyn Adams & Don Devere Tigger Wright & Hilde fan’t Alddjip
Katrina Christy & Winterstarr Katy Barglow & LaMans
Carolyn Adams & Winterprintz Ruth Shirkey and PEC Womanizer
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