Sofia Valenca Classical Dressage from the Heart of Portugal
The Valença Equestrian Academy, a beacon of classical equitation in the heart of Portugal. Our story began in the 1980s when Master Luis Valença, established the Centro Equestre de Lezíria Grande (CELG). It has become a pivotal training hub, shaping the journey of thousands of students and horses from across the globe in the art of classical riding. International rider, Sofia made her debut in 1987 at Equitana in Essen , Germany, where she was the main star carrying the Portuguese Flag riding Sultão and performing all the High school Movements before a crowd of thousands, she was part of the Royal Horse Gala’s team of riders, and “Appassionato II “ tour.
Thea Smits Working Equitation
We are exceptionally proud to announce that we are hosting a third clinic of the most esteemed Working Equitation, coach and dressage rider/instructor from the Netherlands, Thea Smits.
Thea is not only a skilled working equitation rider and competitor, but she also imparts her expertise by teaching dressage and jumping to both dressage and working equitation riders. The foundation of both disciplines is identical: A strong partnership. Classical dressage is the cornerstone of work equitation.
Prices are included, arena hire, day yards, night paddocks, horse showers and rider’s meals:
@ 4 days $1100
@ 3 days $ $880
@ 2 days $ 660
Also, you can book a lesson of your choice of discipline for the day @ $ 150
In this workshop, you will receive:
Theoretical insights of horse & rider biomechanism.
Private lessons tailored to your riding level and your horse's abilities.
Small group lessons focusing on the fundamentals of horse training.
Obstacle course demonstrating complete trust the foundation of teamwork.
Thea’s profound passion for horses and riding brought her into a world where she use to serves as the working equitation team-coach for the Dutch junior and senior teams at international-level competitions. She is now focusing on advancing her career at the high levels of working equitation, while also dedicating time to her own journey alongside the many hours Thea spends teaching riders of all disciplines.
Specialisation; teaching riders how to train horses according to their natural abilities, fostering a unique harmony between horse and rider in each of her clients. Obstacles serve as valuable tools in enhancing the rider's communication with the horse. By directing attention away from mere exercise and towards navigating obstacles, riders are less preoccupied mentally and more attuned to their instincts and feelings. This shift in focus often leads to a less frustrating experience for both rider and horse, fostering a playful learning environment where the horse can explore new skills.
Establishing trust is crucial for navigating the challenges presented in the agility test. Both rider and horse must have faith in each other, especially considering the variety of obstacles encountered. Learning to reassure the horse that everything is safe and manageable builds a stronger partnership and reduces stress during competitive events.
Drawing from principles of horsemanship, the agility exercises bear resemblance to those found in dressage but with added complexity. For instance, mastering pirouettes at 360 degrees enhances the execution of 180-degree turns. Proficiency in lateral movements, such as side-stepping over poles, demonstrates the horse's responsiveness to cues, which carries over to more intricate dressage manoeuvres like half-passes and leg yields.
Additionally, the agility test incorporates exercises that mimic elements of dressage tests, such as executing straight-line rein-backs amidst a challenging course. These exercises refine the horse's ability to maintain precision and balance, crucial for performing sequences of steps in dressage routines.
Notably, navigating through slalom obstacles and executing flying changes with consistency further hones the horse's agility and responsiveness. These skills translate into the seamless execution of tempi flying changes, showcasing the horse's athleticism and the rider's finesse.
Seize this opportunity to learn from the best, where you and your horse take centre stage. Enjoy, learn, and have fun – we care for the rest!
Choose between a fully accommodated and catered clinic for you and your horse, only bring your horse feed and riding gear!
Allan Collett Horsemanship
This clinic will give you a deeper understanding of working on ground, biomechanics, and help improve both your safety and control while riding. The most important aspect of horse riding is mastering the basics and truly understanding the horse's way of thinking and movement.
Working Equitation & Dressage clinic with Virginie Dubus
Working Equitation & Dressage clinic with Virginie Dubious.
Virginie is 4th at the world ranking Working Equitation
Allan Collett Horsemanship
Allan Collett Horsemanship
Teaching the Rider the Alphabet of Training Skills
Our program is designed to guide you through the complete "alphabet" of training skills, from A to Z.
Through this journey, you'll Learn to read your horse's signals and communicate effectively, fostering a deeper connection. Build Trust and Control. Prioritize Welfare above your own ego. Let your horse be a mirror of your soul, reflecting your dedication, patience, and empathy.
By mastering the alphabet of training skills, you'll be equipped to achieve anything with your horse and excel in any discipline, all while maintaining a respectful relationship.
Ken Faulkner
Ken Faulkner has been involved with horses in one form or another from an early age and began introducing horses to the public at the age of fifteen. He has been involved in various aspects of horsemanship, ranging from rodeo, breeding, training, showing horses for most of his life
In 1998 Ken and Kathy started Australian Natural Horsemanship, and Ken now conducts courses and starts horses sharing his insights, knowledge and experience throughout Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and France. Ken's knowledge and information will help people and horses to build a level of communication that will enable you to move forward together as a partnership and understand the intricacies of finesse riding and high-level liberty.
Ken focuses on teaching students horsemanship in such a way that they can incorporate it into any horsemanship discipline or program they choose, whether it be English or Western, endurance or trail riding, competition or just for fun.
Creating a unique bond with your horse and building communication skills and understanding enables you to enhance your horsemanship. The result will be a horse that is mentally alert, physically willing, emotionally collected
Discover the world of Working Equitation
Dutch Work Equitation Junioren team under the guidance of their coach Thea Smits
Ken Faulkner
Ken Faulkner was born in Stan Thorpe, a small Australian country town, where he grew up and worked around sheep and cattle stations. Ken acquired his first horse at fifteen and began “starting” (breaking in) horses while still in his teens. Ken completed an apprenticeship as a butcher and worked as such until the age of nineteen, during which time he always had horses and played polo cross as well as becoming a rodeo rider, riding saddle broncs. In his early twenties, Ken worked on a quarter horse stud, breaking, training, handling, breeding and showing the horses.
In 1989 Ken met an American horseman called Pat Parelli when he came to Australia, and after travelling to California for a month-long course Ken was invited to become an instructor for the Parelli organisation. While at the course, he got to meet and spend time with some very knowledgeable world-renowned horsemen including Tom Dorrance, Dr Robert Miller and Mike Bridges. He worked on a contract for the Parelli organisation for the next ten years conducting courses and demonstrations and starting (breaking in horses) throughout Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom.
Phil Monaghan & Tanja Kraus
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Allan Collett
Allan Collett Clinic at Wildcroft Estate, “ A better connection and understanding of your horse”
Ross Jacobs
Ross Jacobs is a renowned trainer, author, and clinician who specializes in the philosophy of "Good Horsemanship." He follows the principles of natural horsemanship, a training method that prioritizes non-violent, humane techniques to establish trust and respect with horses. Ross firmly believes that horses always have a thought before taking an action.
Join a clinic
Please fill in the attendance form and email the insurance form to grace@wildcroftestate.com