Gates Equestrian

08/17/2025

Another great!

08/16/2025

Riders watch with sound on, great commentary!

08/13/2025

Truth!

08/10/2025

Check out .com

08/07/2025

08/05/2025

This is something I find many riders (myself included) struggle with and it’s completely natural!

Most of us are taught from the start to steer with the reins. It becomes instinct to pull right, go right. But horses are incredibly attuned to our body. They feel a subtle shift in our seat, the tension in our legs, even the energy behind our breath.

And yet, when something goes wrong, our first reaction is often to grab at the reins. More pressure. More pulling. More confusion…

But reins should be a whisper, not a command. A final piece of communication, not the first.

When we start riding from our seat, core, and intention, things begin to change. Transitions become smoother. Bends feel natural. The horse begins to listen rather than just react.

💡 Next time you ride, ask yourself:

— Can I prepare this movement with my seat and posture before even using my reins?
— Are my hips following and guiding, or am I trying to steer from the front?

Your horse is listening not just to your hands, but to your whole body 💃🏼

08/02/2025

"Wondering if you should get her that pony, wonder no more!

Riding families have always known horses are good for kids, but now research is proving it. One study, sponsored by the American Youth Horse Council, found that equestrian activities do indeed enhance a range of life skills in children.

The study looked at youngsters involved in 4-H, Pony Club, the American Quarter Horse Youth Association, or the National High School Rodeo Association in one eastern and one western state. Results of the study, published in February 2006, found a significant positive relationship between horsemanship skills and life skills.

If your child likes animals and you’re concerned about that child’s problem solving, goal-setting, or decision-making skills, then definitely get him or her involved with horses."

Written by Ann Swinker, Ph.D. - professor in Animal Science at Penn State University and one of the study’s co-authors.
Photo by Larson Performance Horses

08/02/2025

💯

Listen, learn, and connect. 🐴 Buster & Sheryl McLaury - Horsemen and Clinicians

07/27/2025

I would like to extend a big thank you to my morning crew: Emily A. Bullard-Clough, Julie, and Aoife! Emily A. Bullard-Clough

07/27/2025

We would like to extend our gratitude to Cindy Ross for visiting us and spending the afternoon together. We also appreciate the support from all the riders and their trainers. Special thanks to Brick Road Farms, LLC, Goldcreek Equestrian Center, and particularly Jennifer Barile, our exceptional grill master. The Judge My Ride event was a resounding success. Cindy Ross Brick Road FarBrick Road Farms, LLCestrian Center