Leadership Instructor and Chief Safety Director
I have been involved with horses for over 45 years. As a teenager and into my early 20’s, I rode primarily QH/TB and Appaloosa crosses, competing in rodeo games, high-speed relays, and barrel racing. These sports required a high level of balance for both me and my horses to compete safely. Dressage gave me the foundation of balance and harmony through properly executed communication aids. Later, I found my passion for high energy riding in Competitive Trail, Extreme Obstacle Course competitions, and finally Endurance Riding. The faster and scarier, the better! Not necessarily smart!
After owning multiple horses over the years, mostly rescues, and placing them in loving homes, I encountered two particular horses that led me to the wonderful world of Natural Horsemanship. This changed my POV about everything I had ever believed about horses. I now view Natural Horsemanship as the most comprehensive way of communicating and “being” with horses. As a result, I have learned through the Parelli Principles how to appreciate and respect horses as to who they are (their horsanality) not what I expect them to do for me (performance). I have learned that a love-motivated relationship is what deeply connects humans as well as humans and horses: giving without expecting anything in return.
I have spent the last 30 years on a transformative journey with and through horses. From a competitive, performance-driven human, to a balanced, more grateful human who values the relationship above all else.
Now I help others enjoy this most amazing of partnerships where horses (prey animals) and humans (predators) interact cooperatively, on the ground and riding, and in jobs they both enjoy in whatever they choose to do.
Happy Trails Await You!
Robyn Smith