OUR MISSION
At
Orion Dressage Sporthorses, we teach a systematic, progressive approach
to riding to enhance harmony and balance between horse and rider and
improve the natural basic gaits of the horse.
The
Pyramid of Training is emphasized to progressively develop the six
basic aspects in the training of the horse—rhythm, suppleness,
connection, impulsion, straightness, collection - guided by thoroughness.
At Orion, we emphasize education of the horse and
rider.
Orion
Dressage Sporthorses fosters a gentle approach to teaching and training.
Every rider and horse at every level is encouraged to progress at
a pace that is comfortable and constructive.
HEAD TRAINER - ELIZABETH KING
Orion Dressage Sporthorses'
head trainer, Elizabeth King, has an extensive background in horsemanship
and has been riding since she was 4 years old. Teaching was also in
her blood, as a young girl at the family run barn, she would give
mini lessons to the children that were too young to start full lessons
with her older sister. With her earliest background in the hunter/jumper
world, Elizabeth discovered Dressage at a young age.
At age 17, after two years of part
time training, Elizabeth decided Dressage would be her main focus.
She became the assistant trainer of USDF gold Medalist Melanie Southard
in upstate NY. After a short break from her riding Elizabeth rejoined
Melanie here at Orion Dressage and became Head Trainer in the summer
of 2005 when Melanie relocated to Ocala, Florida.
During her life with horses Elizabeth
has worked with many different levels of horses and riders. She grew
up riding ponies and many ex-race horses. Elizabeth also spent a good
deal of time working with handicapped riders. During her brief time
away from riding Elizabeth organized and taught a riding camp in Westchester,
New York. These experiences have left her with a love and respect
of all breeds and, taught her many teaching skills that she uses daily
in her training.
In the summer of 2003 Elizabeth got
her first chance to start her competition career. Since then Elizabeth
has earned her USDF Bronze Medal and in summer of 2004 got the opportunity
to make her FEI debut showing Egor, Melanie's retired Grand Prix horse.
Elizabeth now trains with Gunnar Ostergaard on a regular basis.
