How to "Use your Noodle and Stay on the Ball"!

This weekend I audited a clinic put on by reknowned Arabian Horse Trainer, Tommy Garland, Powhatan, Virginia. His "CPR" for horses clinic teaches horses to become trusting and fearless in a couple of words. Three solid days of intense yet humane training resulted in Maggie Schlunds' filly, Lucious Lorraine becoming a star in the clinic with the help of her trainer, Sarah Vas. Wow! It was a sensational experience and well worth the time and money to attend.

Mr. Garland is a true horseman, kind, gentle and respectful of the animals and their handlers/riders.

It was a awesome experience for this old broad who has become disenchanted and jaded regarding the "training methods" of Arabian/Half Arabian showhorses. I believe the training process now consists of "rumor and lies" "Smoke and Mirrors" and survival of the (not the fittest) horses that submit and lose their will.

Not so with this outstanding "horse-a-tarian"! I developed total respect for this man and his family just seeing him do his "gifts" in those three days. He focuses on "training through respect and trust" not fear and intimidation.

Mr. Garland has a gift, and I wish those who are looking for someone to help them with their horses can have an opportunity to see his "gift" in action.

I am so glad I had an opportunity to interact with his lovely wife Dawn. (behind every successful man . . . . .)

p.s. I have seen him on RFD TV and he looks a lot younger on TV!