We regret to inform you that this clinic is postponed to another date due to unforeseen circumstances in the health of Sofia, we wish her all the best and hope on a speedy recovery!
We are very excited to announce that Sofia Valenca will be visiting from Portugal to share her knowledge from more than 30 years of experience in classical, academic, and competitive riding and teaching.
The Valença method is a classical horse training method, a collaboration of the lifework of Maestre Luis Valença and Maestro Nuno Oliveira, joining old worlds and new, It emphasizes a harmonious relationship between horse and rider, built on mutual trust and respect, to enhance the horse’s natural balance and movement. This philosophy extends beyond training, focusing on a shared journey of growth that develops the horse’s strength and agility through a series of progressive exercises. With an emphasis on balanced riding and subtle communication, the method respects each horse’s unique qualities and limitations, adaptable to all breeds. It’s a horse-friendly method benefiting both horse and rider.
Sofia’s clinics focus on the results YOU want to achieve. At the start of your lesson she will talk with you about your goals, whether they be general or specific. Within minutes of assessing your warm up she will have devised a training plan that will help both you and your horse by understanding the WHY and the HOW of your tailored exercises. And by the end of your lesson, you will already see RESULTS.
By this approach, not only will you have a successful and enjoyable experience at her clinic, you will also understand how to continue training your horse using the Valença method.
What level is required to attend a Valença clinic? All riders of all levels in any discipline are welcome. Sofia teaches riders from beginners in walk and trot to grand prix and haute école.
Also if you are a show jumping and/or eventer, Sofia can help you. Dressage can help every horse improve by strengthening and suppling the horse with simple exercises. It can help the rider improve by establishing clear and gentle communication and aids.
Sofia can also help with an issue involving the behaviour of your horse, how ? By always working on clear communication and developing or re-establishing a close relationship with your horse. You must have this before you can progress with the horse’s training.
How are your clinics different from others? The “Valenca method” uses an established method that is proven to work, and it is clear and simple for both human and horse to understand.
What is the difference between, Classical dressage refers to the traditional approach to training and riding horses, focusing on the harmonious relationship between horse and rider. It is a discipline that emphasizes the development of the horse's physical and mental capabilities through progressive training, while maintaining natural movements and balance. The goal is to achieve a high level of precision, fluidity, and elegance in the horse’s movements, while ensuring its well-being and comfort.
The principles of classical dressage are rooted in the teachings of great masters such as Xenophon, Federico Grisone, and the Baucher family, and were later refined through the work of figures like Philippe Karl and others who championed traditional methods. Classical dressage emphasizes:
Lightness: A horse should respond to subtle aids from the rider, showing a relaxed and light connection without tension.
Balance: The horse is trained to move in an upright position, maintaining natural balance and avoiding over-collection or artificial movement.
Flexibility: Both the horse's body and mind should be flexible, capable of adapting to various exercises while remaining calm.
Precision and Elegance: The goal is not just to perform the movements correctly, but to do so in a beautiful, graceful way, making the effort appear effortless.
Sublime Communication: Training emphasizes a deep connection between horse and rider, where the rider’s aids are soft and the horse's response is natural.
This style contrasts with modern competitive dressage, which can sometimes prioritize the execution of specific movements for scores over the natural, harmonious development of the horse. Classical dressage, often seen in historical or artistic forms, promotes a more philosophical and organic progression in the horse’s education, focusing on the horse’s well-being and the rider's ability to guide it with minimal force.
Cost of Clinic:
THE 3-DAY CLINIC IS EXCLUSIVE FOR A SELECT GROUP OF NO MORE THAN SIX PARTICIPANTS,
OFFERING SIX PRIVATE LESSONS @ $ 1400,00. Participants enrolled in the 3 day course will have priority over other participants.
included: arena hire, day-yard /night-paddock, camping, catering and rider accommodation is optional as is stables. See below
If you cannot do a 3-day course there is a possibility to follow:
2-days course with 4 private lessons @ $1000 inclusive arena hire, day-yards and night-paddock plus camping
3-day course with 3 private lessons @ $ 800
2-private lesson on the day, @ $ 600 inclusive arena hire and day-yards
1-private lessons on the day, @ $ 300 inclusive arena hire and day-yard
Optional: needs to be pre-booked.
Catering for the day(s)
Shared accommodation for rider
Stable $ 50 per night