Jennette Scanlon is a USDF Certified Instructor at Training-Fourth Level, USPC National Examiner, and a USEA ICP Level II Certified Instructor. Jennette, who operates her own training business, has also earned her USDF Bronze, Silver, and Gold Medals on a horse she started under saddle. Jennette continues to extend her knowledge, which has led her to becoming a USDF L Graduate with Distinction.
How I got started in dressage: I started riding dressage under strange circumstances. Although I had ridden dressage at events, some small shows, and USPC Rallies, I always rode in my jump saddle. When my horse lost his eye in an accident, I realized I had trouble steering. So, I struck out to learn new skills in a dressage barn on the East Coast. Later, my quest for further knowledge and desire to be around quality riding took me to the Etoile Academy in Germany.
Why I wanted to become certified: I wanted to become certified for the education process, as well as to take advantage of the opportunities that the program offers.
What I learned: I learned so much during the certification process, I am not sure where to begin! Fundamentally, I learned how to organize and prioritize the training concepts to become more effective as an instructor, and clearer as a rider. The program has changed my methodology, so I can easily simplify an exercise or expand the difficulty depending on what is happening in the moment. I enjoy sharing the knowledge I’ve gained through these programs with students. Seeing my students achieve more is very satisfying for me as an instructor.
My Tip: Stop, Drop, and Build! If you have a problem area, stop and identify the issue. Next, drop back to the basic that corresponds to the issue. Get simple. Review the skills that are fundamental to that specific basic. After a short period of time, the confidence of the student or horse should begin to improve, allowing you to start building back toward the progress of the level.
My Horse(s): I have several project horses. For dressage, I own an 11-year-old Oldenburg named “Lustig” (Lehmann x Stedinger), who I have competed up to Third level. For eventing, I have a 9-year-old Holsteiner named “Cardenius”; he was a 1.30-meter jumper, but he has completed his first two events and is currently schooling in the dressage courts. My “keep me humble” project is a 7-year-old Thoroughbred named “Baby Bear’s Soup”, owned by Dr. Laurie Bohannon, DVM, from the Santa Anita track.
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