I am a USDF Bronze, Silver, and Gold Medalist located in Central Florida. My horses and I have garnered multiple Regional and National Arabian Championships. I focus my teaching on working as a translator for my students’ mounts, so that riders can understand what they’re feeling and how their body affects the horse’s every move. My program is geared towards the serious equestrian athlete with a focus on correct biomechanics and harmony between horse and rider. I am continuously furthering my education so that I can better help my horses and riders as they continue their journey in dressage.
How long have you been involved in the sport?
I have been riding dressage for 22 years.
How long have you been a USDF member?
I’ve been a USDF member since 1999.
What made you decide to participate in the USDF L Education Program?
I wanted to participate in the USDF L Education Program because I was interested in the education from the judges’ point of view in order to expand my knowledge as a trainer and instructor. It is a phenomenal opportunity to grow as a dressage rider.
How long did it take to complete the program, start to finish?
It took a year to complete the L Education Program from start to finish.
Do you serve as a judge for schooling shows in your capacity as an L Graduate? If so, on average, how many per year?
I judge a few schooling shows per year. However, the pandemic and having a baby slowed that down a bit for right now though.
What impact did the program have on your dressage knowledge?
The education I received from the program is invaluable and I use it in my daily training and teaching.
Name three things you took away from the program that you think every rider should know.
I believe that the most valuable tools from the program were the focus on the USDF Pyramid of Training, biomechanics, and understanding the importance of scoring and commenting on dressage tests.
Have you participated in or completed other USDF programs? Describe.
I would like to pursue becoming a USDF Certified Instructor.
Tell us about your horse(s).
I show my Arabian stallion who I trained from a four-year-old and earned my USDF Gold Medal on. I’m excited to debut my up and coming young Hanoverian mare (pictured) who I plan to show in the Developing FEI classes soon.
Phone: (352) 406-8199
Email: CaraBlanchardTraining@gmail.com
