Friday May 22, 1998
From: Carol Mackey, demonstration rider
Re: USDF/CMDA Maine Instructors Clinic
Dear Gina,
I must admit I did not start out the week intending to write to you. I realized, however, that it was important for you to know what a difference one small explanation or point can make to someone, even when the person was just an observer of the moment.
Let me explain. Early on in the clinic you explained to someone about holding the reins. Basic, yes. I realized while listening to your description that I had an incorrect concept of where the pressure should be in my fingers. You explained that the reins are to be held between the thumb and the forefinger and then pass through the other fingers—ring and pinky. That description has "fixed" my hand problems in a very significant way. I was riding from my ring and pinky making for a lot of tension in my hands and arms. I now "ride from my thumbs", if that makes any sense. The ‘connection’ is so much better.
There were several other small and basic things that were discussed during the course of the clinic that were most helpful. The fact that during the clinic riding concepts were "taken apart" makes problem areas so obvious and fixable.
Enough from me. Suffice it to say it was a worthwhile experience.
Have a good summer and thank you.
Sincerely,
Carol Mackey
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