George H. Morris Clinic at Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center a Success
RELEASE: November 26, 2008
AUTHOR/ADMINISTRATOR: By Jennifer Wood
The Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center recently held a very successful clinic featuring the renowned rider and trainer, George H. Morris, who is currently the U.S. Show Jumping Chef d'Equipe. The clinic was held over three days and hosted three different groups of riders: intermediate, advanced, and jumpers.
The clinic was scheduled and organized by Susie Schoellkopf, Director of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center and head trainer of SBS Farms, Inc., at the Buffalo Equestrian Center. Riding in the clinic also was SBS Farms' head rider and trainer Jennifer Alfano, who was recently named the Leading Hunter Rider at the 125th National Horse Show.
"George worked on basics, bad habits, and bad trends in riding," Schoellkopf said of the clinic. "Jennifer rode in the advanced and the jumper group. We had kids of all ages and adults in the clinic. Each group dramatically improved by the third day."
In addition to the valuable learning experience that the riders had, more than 100 auditors each day gained knowledge and insight at the clinic. "People were thrilled and so excited, both riders and auditors," Schoellkopf acknowledged. "George is a genius. It's no wonder we keep winning the Gold medals."
Morris is often referred to as a founding father of hunter seat equitation. He is a legend in the sport, and his clinics are a rare and unique opportunity for riders of all levels and ages to learn from the best. Morris's most recent accomplishment was leading the United States to a Team Gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.
The Buffalo Equestrian Center, originally called the Buffalo Saddle and Bridle Club, was built in 1921 and is now a historic landmark. In addition to having a riding school, the facility includes the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, a non-profit organization. They provide vital services to differently-abled youth riders.
In its eleventh year, the George H. Morris Clinic at the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center continued to teach young and old alike about proper horsemanship, correct riding, and the foundations of equitation. Beyond being a learning experience for riders, the clinic helps BTRC give local Buffalo youth the unforgettable gift of horses.
For more information on the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center and SBS Farms, Inc., please visit
www.btrc.org.