As the season wraps up for winter, and we are trying to decide if we want to ride the spicy ponies in Carharts, I took some time to reflect on our industry this year. I spent a lot of time in the office, on the grounds, judging and announcing at quite a few shows this year and there was one major thing that stood out at several places – riders in tears because they were yelled at by someone. And that someone could have been a parent, coach, friend – I don’t know – but it was watching kids come out of the arena OK and then a few minutes later be reduced to tears. Now I don’t know all the circumstances as to WHY some of them were crying – but some of them I overheard, and it was someone saying harsh words about their performance. Look, I get we all want to win and do our best – but here is where I want to speak to the adults (and if you feel a little guilty – you were probably someone I overheard) STOP IT!! I get some of you think you’re helping by toughening them up to do better but that is not the way! These kids are the next generation of instructors, trainers, and judges and yes as mentors we want them to succeed but not at the expense of their self-esteem. Our job as mentors is to build them up, correct them with patience, and encourage them. Want to run someone out of our sport faster than Road Runner – rip them to shreds and make them cry. In my 40 years of teaching, I have had several students come to ride with me and when they made a mistake, and I laughed it off and said try again they were shocked – why – because their previous instructor would have berated them for it. All my kids (and a lot are grown now) will tell you I NEVER yell unless you are about to do something that will get you killed. And I pride myself on that. I want the next generation to WANT to show, to teach, to encourage. So, my generation of riders, trainers, and coaches – let’s do better. Let’s show the next generation how the horse community is – encouraging, open, and helpful.
Until then – Appy Riding!
Tracy
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