Each month, we will be profiling one of our Strides Student Members, so everyone can get to know each other a little! This month, we’ve chosen Cindy Kerr, who is from Oklahoma, USA!
How long have you been a member of Strides? Since October 2023
What’s your favorite part of Strides? Learning all the “secrets.” For years trainers have said “half-halt” and “get off that inside rein” but they never explained how and why. In a 45 minute lesson they just didn’t have the time to explain all the “how” elements like you do.
How has Strides helped you? Totally changed my paradigm when riding from forward thinking hands to all the exercises, like snowman and ribbon candy. I can’t say my horse is perfect like your horses, but I can see the pathway to move closer to what I want.
What kind of horses are your favorite? I ride western dressage..it’s very popular in Oklahoma. Paint and Quarter Horse. I do love classic dressage and the big warmbloods though. I grew up in S. CA. Hilda Gurney was my mentor and her protégé, Jaye Cherry.
What’s your goal for next year? Consistency and softness. Want to get better canter departs without any bracing. Also want to get a good canter walk without abrupt falling on the forehand.
What is something unique about you, your journey or your horse? I am 68 years old. I have been riding 45 years. Started out hunters with an OTTB that I actually BOUGHT FROM THE RACETRACK..HE WAS RACING. yikes. Did a little dressage with him. Then years of trail riding..rode across Death Valley twice, the Grand Tetons and the High Sierras. Two years ago found Western Dressage and rekindled my love for dressage. I have always been a “riding nerd,” even when on the trail….walk/canter departs, side passing, moving all the body parts, turns on forehand and haunches. I actually rode with a lady who had owned a horse for 15+ years and couldn’t tell what lead she was on! I used to look at the direction of the trail ahead and ask for the corresponding lead. Just love it all.
What achievement (with horses or not) you most proud of? I won a Championship at WDAA World Show 2022 in Guthrie, OK Level 1 Test 2
What challenges have you overcome? I Got my paint when she was 3. Shes 8 now. I was afraid to canter her. She was scared of the cedar trees next to the arena. (All kinds of critters in them, rabbits, squirrels) Spent months making her stand with her nose in.those trees! Now working on walk/canter/walk right next to those trees.
Any final thoughts? Love Team Amelia’s explanations, positivity and kindness towards the horses. Keep up the good work.
