Kristine Holloran and Anna Capobianco

Ten Broeck Farm, Pepperell, MA was one of the U.S. stops for Rodrigo da Costa Matos, who travels worldwide offering classical horsemanship clinics. Rodrigo hails from Portugal where he is the Head Instructor of Morgado Lusitano as well as the Principal Rider of the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art.

Phil and Orintha Silva of Ten Broeck Farm hosted the two day clinic August 12 & 13. Phil calls Matos as “a fabulous equestrian who exhibits a rare gift for both riding and teaching.” Rodrigo is a recognized master at riding maneuvers such as the Piaffe, Passage and Long-reins-in-hand. He also performs the most demanding high school airs, including the Capriole, Levade and Corvetta.

Beyond his skills in the saddle, Matos has also been credited for his unique style of teaching—welcoming questions and willingness to discuss, in detail, the intricacies of each movement.

Clinic riders included FEI-level rider Luis “Lou” Denizard who traveled to the Pan American Games in Brazil in 2007 and competed as Puerto Rico's sole dressage representative. Sue McKeown, a Vice President for the New England Dressage Association; and Patricia Norcia an ARIA certified Level III instructor in dressage who also performs with The Equus Projects/Dancing with Horses.

Anna Capobianco, an eighth grader at Hopkinton Middle School, Hopkinton, MA was on hand to audit and explore a Young Rider perspective at the clinic. The Silvas, who are very committed to the development of young riders, offer free auditing at clinics for 4H members under age 18.

Anna is actually named for her family’s farm “Annaray Farm” where they show and breed Lippitt Morgans. She started riding saddle seat but migrated to Hunt Seat, she also enjoys competitive trail riding with the Bay State Trail Riders Association.

With horses such an integral part of Capobianco’s life, she offers some insightful thoughts as she audits and interviews during the Matos clinic.

Anna’s Audit

Watching Matos was mesmerizing; I could tell he communicated well with horses. During his time at the clinic, not once did he raise his voice, and it was easy to see how confident the rider was. He almost seemed curious with interest while teaching these riders of all ages and training levels.

The amount of timing and detail was incredible to watch. It was great to see how this teacher was handling each rider and carefully asking questions of their background. The greener horses (and riders) especially benefited from his compassion and patience.

Despite the wonderful turnout, I only wish more youths were present. Matos is very helpful to uneasy riders and is a very warm hearted person. It seems that “Young Riders” are a little intimidated of Dressage and feel it is reserved for those with a great amount of experience.

Orintha Silva describes Dressage as “challenging”, but so are other riding disciplines, she adds. She also emphasizes that it is very rewarding. The challenge to work so closely with your horse, to create a unique partnership, makes it exciting. She feels young riders should not be afraid to try it or to get involved. The dressage community is very welcoming and no person at any level should ever feel self conscious about attending an event or clinic.

Dressage is really for anyone of any age if they think it is their passion. Patricia Norcia explained, “Dressage is an art form, so there is no end to being talented.” That means a lot to me and other youths who should be open to new things.

I have been riding Paradox, my black Lippitt mare ever since I was in preschool. Now she is twelve and is my best friend in the whole wide world! I asked some others about the role of horses with children…

Lou Denizard, “Horses saved me from getting into trouble… and they taught me how to be responsible.” Sue McKeown, “Overall, if children spend most of their time at the barn with their horse, then it is a much safer place to be on their behalf.” Patricia Norcia, “Horses teach us how to overcome our fears and how to balance.”

Although the consensus was positive toward horses in a child’s life, everyone was quick to note that a horse is a huge commitment, with great financial responsibility and the entire family has to be part of that commitment.

I always look forward to see my horses every day and ride as much as I can. They certainly are spoiled little creatures that are my life.

Capobianco shared her personal sense that young riders have some false preconceived notions about Dressage. She hopes that more riders her age will try Dressage, take advantage of auditing and other educational opportunities.

Renee Isler of Westford, MA (a sponsor of Denizard) is a longtime supporter of the U.S. Young Riders in Dressage. She established the “Renee Isler Dressage Support Fund” at The Dressage Foundation. One of its primary purposes is to help Young Rider applicants to the USDF FEI Jr/YR Clinics, who are in need of financial assistance in order to attend.

Ten Broeck Farm offers a comprehensive internship program. Interns experience dressage shows, prepare young horses for breed shows and ride with international/national clinicians in clinics. According to the Silvas, they ensure that hands on experience exposes interns to all facets of care, barn management, and client relationships.

Visit www.tenbroeckfarm.net for the latest clinic schedule and intern opportunities at Ten Broeck Farm.

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