I do like Phillip’s idea quite a bit. I think something similar could be accomplished but maybe not with large training centers due to the cost. Through USHJA certification and talent scouting or EAP, we could set up talented students with the appropriate certified instructors and offer the USHJA certified instructor a stipend to supplement the training costs of the student based on need.
I do like Phillip’s idea quite a bit. I think something similar could be accomplished but maybe not with large training centers due to the cost. Through USHJA certification and talent scouting or EAP, we could set up talented students with the appropriate certified instructors and offer the USHJA certified instructor a stipend to supplement the training costs of the student based on need.
The student in this program should be required to pass certain written, hands-on and riding tests once a year, ensuring program compliance from both the instructor and the student. Instructors of students and students who do well should be recognized nationally. Students should be able to attain certification levels (much like the existing Pony Club but tailored to the Hunter/Jumpers) and should be allowed to "specialize" in a discipline if they choose. After the annual evaluation, if it is determined that the student has met or exceeded the current instructor’s knowledge base, the student should be able to be re-assigned to a new trainer of higher ability. By the time they "graduate" from the program, they should have the knowledge and exposure to tackle the industry either on their own, or as a highly qualified assistant. A similar mentor program could be established for existing USHJA certified professionals to encourage them to continue their education.
This type of program could also incorporate Kc Branscomb Kelley’s idea of teaming quality horses with quality riders. We can do this by selecting the very best out of this program to work with the very best in the industry to bring along American-bred horses following her detailed program outlined above. It could also incorporate Linda Allen’s Benchmark Program, or something similar, for affordable show experience and exposure for both horses and riders.
The benefit of a program such as this would be multi-faceted. First, a training standard would be set and benchmarks placed that would be non-negotiable. Second, it would encourage the USHJA to expand upon their current certification program to encompass a wider range of riding and training abilities. Third, it would encourage trainers to become certified and work together, thus tightening the community and improving communication. Fourth, it would encourage students who are talented but feel hopeless due to financial restrictions to work hard for the "chance-of-a-lifetime". Fifth, it would provide national recognition for talented riders and smaller name trainers which would help both in business and in their futures.
I’m hesitant to say that we should use the EAP as a method of selecting riders. Per my previous post, I think that unless the EAP begins offering lower sections to account for students who do not have a 1.10m horse or money for 1.10m training, we will essentially fall back into old patterns of selecting those who can afford an education and a horse. We need a way for rated judges at local and schooling shows to nominate riders who they feel are exemplary at any level and have those applications reviewed carefully. Even if the rider is not ready at that moment in time to enter into a program such as the one described above, being notified that they are talented will be enough motivation for most to work harder to meet the requirements.
I also believe that we should not limit the program to age just yet. We should try to "sweep up" the 20-35 year old talent that’s lurking at the backyard barns and start there. There are many individuals who would jump at the opportunity to be seen and would be the program’s biggest supporters and advocates.
I have a lot of faith in the people who are spearheading this campaign for change. I do not believe that things are as bad as they are portrayed. I believe that once we can find a way for students and horses to be trained in a logical thoughtful manner and show at an affordable cost, our sport will blossom in this country once again. I think we have started on some excellent programs, but we need to be more aggressive and determined to make them work for the betterment of the industry. We don’t need a complete overhaul of the industry as we know it, we just need some very strategic changes to existing programs and a group of enthusiastic and dedicated professionals to make sure the changes happen.
And on a side note: I believe that top professionals need to start doing more charity work. If every big name trainer picked one smaller city each year, or every other year, or every third year, to do a clinic for free (covering costs of course), I guarantee we will start to uncover many more talented riders and trainers and would bring the community closer together. USHJA needs to support and advertise these clinics free of charge. It would essentially cost almost nothing, but would mean everything to a rider who dreams of training with their inaccessible idol but would otherwise never have the chance. This is where we will find the next generation of trainers. And who knows, maybe we’ll find a few good horses too!
Sarah Phaklides