USDF Region 3 Adult Dressage Camp
sponsored by GDCTA
Sept. 12-14, 1997
Twenty campers, their horses, three instructors and many volunteers spent a warm September weekend in Pine Mountain, GA taking a vacation with a twist. The weekend would one of dressage education along with fun and fellowship. The 3rd annual USDF Region 3 Adult Dressage Camp was a great success. Sponsored by GDCTA, the camp was superbly organized and run by Susan Bergman and held at Big Bear Farm.
Ronnie and Mary Ellen Roberts, who own Big Bear Farm, were gracious hosts who made sure horses and riders had everything needed for an enjoyable weekend. Amy Van Velzor was the wonderful caterer who made sure no one went hungry. The food was great fuel for the learning and hard work. In the photo, Susan is on the left and Amy is on the right.
The campers stayed at the Pine Mountain Club Chalets just one mile from the farm. Each chalet held 4 to 5 campers and really added to the camp experience. Everyone got to know each other even better with such accommodations. Meals and lectures were held at the chalet Susan and Amy stayed in. The instructors had their own 3 bedroom chalet to retreat to at night to relax and discuss the day's lessons over a glass of wine. There was even a pool for a cold, stimulating late afternoon dip to wash off the sweat and dust.
Each day consisted of two lessons for each camper. Mornings were group lessons for 45 minutes. In the afternoon, 45 minute private lessons were held. Over the course of the camp, each rider had one group lesson and one private lesson with each instructor. Between lessons, campers could audit other lessons, trail ride on the farm's several hundred acres, go swimming, or simply relax in their chalet. Since everyone was interested in learning, most campers spent their time auditing other lessons.
The three instructors were Gina Krueger of Georgia, Melanie Tenney of Connecticut and Harriet Peterson of Montana. In the photo, from left to right, is Gina, Melanie, and Harriett. Each instructor's style and method of teaching complimented each other and the campers were able to build on their lessons with all three instructors. After dinner each night, each instructor gave a lecture. Harriett discussed the reasons we ride dressage. Melanie reviewed the scale of training. Gina discussed appropriate books to read while learning dressage. Dr. Mary Brennen, a local veterinarian, gave a lunch time lecture on Friday on homeopathic medicine and acupuncture that was well received by the campers.
GDCTA plans to hold another camp next year based on the enthusiastic response of the campers. There is also the possibility that other Region 3 GMOs (group member organizations) will hold camps in their parts of the region. If your USDF GMO is interested, be sure to contact USDF for information on how to organize one.
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