In the exhilarating world of our horse shows, pattern classes such as horsemanship, showmanship, and equitation play a crucial role. These events require a unique blend of skill, strategy, and a deep connection with the horse. Recently, we had the pleasure of speaking with Whitney Vicars, a seasoned equestrian with multiple world championships under her belt. Whitney shared valuable insights on her approach to pattern classes, offering tips for amateurs and professionals alike.
Introducing Whitney Vicars
Whitney Vicars, also known as Whitney Walquist Vicars, began her journey in equestrian sports at the tender age of five. Over the years, she has amassed an impressive resume, becoming a seven-time AQHA world champion, among other accolades. Her experience spans across various classes, including horsemanship, showmanship, equitation, and trail. Today, as a professional trainer, she shares her passion for pattern classes by coaching the next generation of equestrian competitors.
Choosing a Favorite: Horsemanship
When asked about her favorite pattern class, Whitney was quick to choose horsemanship. It's her specialty, with five world titles to her name. Whitney loves the adrenaline rush that comes from executing a precise horsemanship pattern. Building a connection with the horse through subtle body cues is what makes this class uniquely exciting for her.
Gaining Perspective: From Amateur to Professional
Whitney's experience competing as an amateur has given her a distinct perspective as a professional. She emphasizes that understanding the challenges from an amateur's viewpoint allows her to tailor her coaching methods effectively. Whitney recalls her own tricks and methods developed over years of competition, which now aid her in guiding her clients through the intricacies of pattern events.
Approaching Patterns: Strategies for Different Horses
An essential aspect of mastering patterns is understanding the horse you're working with. Whitney notes that younger, inexperienced horses don't have any bad habits to unlearn, allowing trainers to instill positive practices from the outset. In contrast, seasoned horses might anticipate patterns and require different approaches to keep them engaged and receptive.
Mental Fortitude: Staying Present in the Pattern
Competing at the highest levels demands mental discipline. Whitney advises focusing on the current maneuver rather than dwelling on past mistakes or future steps. This "ride-in-the-moment" mindset helps maintain composure and ensures a smoother execution of complex patterns.
Coping with Nerves: From Youth to Professional
Whitney openly shares her journey from a nervous youth competitor to a more seasoned professional. As a youth, nerves often hindered her performance. With experience, she found strategies to manage these jitters, turning them into a positive force rather than a hindrance. For Whitney, finding mental calmness through repetition, experience, and even listening to motivational music has been key.
Insider Tips: Common Mistakes and Pet Peeves
Whitney discusses common pitfalls she observes, particularly in showmanship warm-ups. Overworking a horse in the warm-up pen is a notable mistake, leading to diminished performance during the actual event. Her pet peeves range from ill-fitting show clothes to handlers keeping horses unbalanced by holding them too tight during routines.
Staying on Track: Navigating Long Patterns
For lengthy patterns often featured in major circuits, Whitney recommends breaking them down into manageable sections during practice. This approach ensures that both the rider and horse understand each component thoroughly, minimizing stress during actual performance.
Final Words of Wisdom
Whitney concludes with encouraging advice for aspiring competitors. She stresses the importance of perseverance, embracing each unique journey and the connections formed through equestrian sports. Success is a blend of learning from each experience, refining technique, and cherishing the bond with your horse. In conclusion, mastering patterns in equestrian events is as much about technique as it is about understanding and connecting with your horse. Whitney Vicars’ insights offer a glimpse into the mind of a champion, providing invaluable tips for anyone looking to excel in pattern classes. By embracing her advice, riders at all levels can enhance their skills and enjoy a fulfilling journey in the equestrian world.
--- For more information on Whitney Vicars and her training services, you can find her on Facebook under her name or Walquist Quarter Horses. Whether you're an amateur stepping into the show pen or a seasoned competitor, Whitney's experience and guidance can help elevate your performance in the exciting world of pattern classes.
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