double bridle. Working on the relaxation and even
rhythm needed for a Western Pleasure class really benefited my dressage work and working in a curb bit has
helped both his passage and connection in the double
bridle.”
Allison feels that the friendliness and willingness
to share/educate at the breed shows is a welcome
change from the dressage world. She was blown
away at her first breed show by how helpful and supportive everyone was. She met Tim Keeling and Alexandria Vilardi at her first show and feels so grateful
to both of them for helping. “ If I hadn’t met them
and if they hadn’t looked out for me so much, I probably wouldn’t have returned. They told me what classes
to enter, what I needed to do, and even lent me tack
and clothing. The show office at these shows is always
very helpful- and I still can’t believe how
nice it is to be able to add/scratch classes
the day of competition.”
In addition to showing, Cielo and Allison also participate in many exhibitions.
Dressage in the Wine Country, USDF/
CDS Region 7 Championships, Petaluma
Art and Equestrian Festival, Flying Cloud
Farm exhibitions, and Lyric Dressage
Christmas Spectacular. They also cross
train with regular trips to the beach, trail
riding and cavaletti work. Allison feels
because she primarily trains in dressage,
this good base makes all the other disciplines doable. Cielo’s temperament, rideability and trainability are also a key to their success
and versatility.
Allison looks forward to moving Cielo up the dressage levels and continuing to compete at breed shows
for years to come! She is making an effort to reach
out to Lusitano (and Andalusian) owners and dressage riders who own/train these breeds to encourage
them to attend the breed shows.
Sound like fun? Interested in participating with your
Lusitano or Andalusian? Find information on breed
shows (and clinics) across the country (and world)
at: AndalusianWorld Events.
Click here for more information on Vaquarious CD
“Cielo took to the style immediately and I felt his connection and balance in the western bridle was better than in
my double bridle”
~Allison Mathy
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