In this extended footage of the 2015 USDF Sport Horse Prospect Development Forum, Willy Arts discusses why it is important as riders and trainers to evaluate and take conformation strengths and weaknesses into account when beginning the training of a young horse. He encourages riders to work with their veterinarian and to be aware of any shortcomings that may affect the direction of training for a particular horse. Using horses that had previously been seen under tack, Willy describes how their conformation affected what was seen in the horses’ movement and behavior during their prior under saddle sessions.
The 2015 USDF Sport Horse Prospect Development Forum was held at Shannondale Farm in Alpharetta, GA, and featured Scott Hassler and Willy Arts as clinicians. For information on upcoming USDF Sport Horse Prospect Development Forums, how to apply to be a demonstration rider, or how to attend as an auditor, visit the USDF Website.