The Joys of Riding: It Takes Three Lifetimes
Saturday, June 17 2023
Dressage Column
By George Williams
As a working student in the mid-70s for a well-known trainer in New Jersey, I was quite often told that it takes three lifetimes to learn how to ride and train a dressage horse. … [Read more]
- Published in Sidelines Feature, Sidelines Spotlight, Weekly Feature
The Importance of Good Judges
Sunday, January 02 2022
By George Williams
Whether they like it or not, today’s dressage judges are truly the keepers of our sport. This is true perhaps now more than ever before. The reason I believe this, is that as our sport grows and … [Read more]
- Published in Sidelines Feature
Contact and Connection: From His Mouth to Her Hands to Her Heart
Saturday, May 01 2021
By George Williams
For many, the terms contact and connection are interchangeable. It’s often said that a picture is worth a thousand words, and similarly, in riding, a correct feeling can help us fully understand a single word. In dressage, … [Read more]
- Published in Sidelines Feature
The Year Ahead: A Look at Dressage in 2021
Saturday, January 16 2021
By George Williams
With 2020 officially behind us, we can hopefully focus on the new year and all that it promises. After living through last year, many of us are full of hope going into 2021. Since this is a … [Read more]
- Published in Sidelines Feature
Where Has All the Suppleness Gone?
Friday, November 13 2020
by George Williams
In my columns, I try to touch on all things dressage. As in every sport, there are many different aspects, several of which I’ve discussed in previous columns. Once in a while I feel compelled to speak … [Read more]
- Published in General
Reflecting on Retirement
Wednesday, August 19 2020
By George Williams
Our family recently retired a 10-year-old gelding. These are the moments that tend to make us pause to reflect on why we do what we do. As we get older, one of the many questions we grapple … [Read more]
- Published in General