Cynthia S. Thaxton aka Cindy
Tell us a little about yourself (your location, awards/other certifications you hold, etc):
Our farm, High Point Farm, is located in Watkinsville, Georgia. We are a convenient eleven miles from the University of Georgia, in Athens. Go Dawgs! I’ve been fortunate to compete with talented horses and earn my USDF Bronze and Silver Medals. While I’m currently one score away from being a USDF Gold Medalist, I’m proud to have assisted three students in earning theirs. Our training program has helped nineteen students earn their USDF Bronze Medal and eighteen riders earn their Silver Medal. I am a proud USDF Certified Instructor, and I still love attending clinics, reading, and watching videos to keep my eyes sharp for correct biomechanics.
How long have you been involved in the sport?
I have been involved in dressage since 1985.
How long have you been a USDF member?
I have been a USDF member since 1986 or 1987.
What made you decide to participate in the USDF L Education Program?
I gave the program to myself for my 50th birthday. I love education and really had the goal of pushing myself hard to pursue as far as I could go as a judge, to add to my knowledge of training.
How long did it take to complete the program, start to finish?
It took me two years because we had a very large group in our program.
Do you plan to further your dressage education and to continue to apply what you learned in the program to become a licensed official?
I would love to become a licensed official. However, after careful examination, I have decided not to. This program is beyond excellent. I was originally very disappointed at not going forward. However, by accepting the idea of staying positive about my continued studies, while being content with judging schooling shows, I have actually developed a true love for the local farms and dedicated riders.
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 ten to sixteen shows a year.
What impact did the program have on your dressage knowledge?
It’s hard to put into words the positive influence that confidently ascribing a number to a movement I’m riding or coaching brings. The formula and consistency that this USDF program helps develop are invaluable.
Name three things you took away from the program that you think every rider should know.
- There is a true system behind judging. While subjective within that system, USDF, in conjunction with USEF, is trying to narrow down that subjectivity.
- Biomechanics are a real thing. Fortunately, it is also my passion.
- Spending time learning to actually drape around a horse and ride raises your scores because a supple, educated seat can enhance a horse’s natural gaits. Those gaits are the basis of the scores.
Have you served in any other official capacity with USDF (council/committee member, council/committee chair, PM/GM delegate, board member/Regional Director, etc.)? Please describe.
I was honored to be a large part of developing Region 3’s Advanced Young Rider Program service as the Region 3 Advanced Young Rider liaison for many years in the 90s and early 2000s. Great fun. I’d be happy to serve on contemporary committees. I enjoy the perspective of giving back.
Tell us about your horse(s).
I don’t currently own my own competitive horse. I’ve been fortunate to compete with client horses through the years. I still ride four days a week and keep client horses tuned up for their journeys.
Contact:
Email: hpdressage@gmail.com
Phone: 706-540-9022
Website/Social media: www.highpointfarm.org | Facebook | Instagram
