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Amateur Boot Camp kicks off 2015 World Show

robynd

[Source: APHA.com]

bootcampfbAmateur Boot Camp kicked off the 2015 APHA World Championship Show festivities November 3 by giving Amateurs the opportunity to work with Lisa Ligon, a Markel APHA Professional Horseman and APHA judge from Pilot Point, Texas. Lisa worked with riders to prepare for showmanship, Western horsemanship and hunt-seat equitation. 

Professional braiders Kate Shearer and Shawna Eisenhart gave banding and braiding demonstrations and coached clinic attendees on their braiding skills. They shared these quick tips for those planning to do their own banding or braiding as well as those who work with a professional braider.

  • Keep your bottom lines level whether banding or braiding. If your bands or braids are bumpy at the top, that’s OK. Keep the bottom line of the bands or braids level for a crisp, professional look.
  • Practice at home. Practice makes perfect, and honing banding and braiding skills at home is a great way to develop proficiency without the pressure of being at a show.
  • Ask for help when you need it.  Professional braiders understand what it’s like to be learning, and they’re usually more than willing to share their knowledge. If you need help, don’t be afraid to ask someone for assistance.
  • Be courteous to your braider. Try to give your braider as much lead time as possible when it comes to cancellations or a changing schedule. Be on time for your appointment, and try to limit the amount of distractions your horse has while he’s being worked on.