Tips and Techniques with Stone Bridge Farm's Teddi Ismond
Submitted by: Equine Journal
Phone: 540-291-1000
Email Address: katrina.weinig(at)gmail.com
Date Added: 3/15/2010
Teddi Ismond, the senior trainer at Stone Bridge Farm in Virginia, has known success from an early age. She competed at the Maclay Finals at Madison Square Garden at age eight and at 11 she began training with George Morris showing her Junior Hunters and Grand Prix jumpers to top national titles. Teddi joined Stone Bridge Farm in 2008 where, together with trainer Lilly deSousa, she coaches amateur, junior and pony riders, as well as the Roanoke College and Southern Virginia University Riding Teams. Their students have been in the top ribbons at the FTI Winter Equestrian Festival, the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center to Indoor Finals and, locally, at HITS Culpeper and other Virginia shows. Both national and international equestrians come to Stone Bridge Farm to participate in their unique show programs, which supply competitive horses, comfortable lodging and top training under one roof. Teddi is a USEF “R†judge and brings both traditional and very current approaches to her students. We sat down to talk with Teddi about what riders should consider when moving to a new barn.
EJ: When going to ride with a new trainer what protocol should a rider follow?
TI: Make sure you familiarize yourself with your new trainer’s teaching background and accomplishments. Ask about programs offered, lesson and showing schedules, barn hours and rules, and discuss fees. Don’t be afraid to ask questions regarding costs – everyone should be on the same page about this. Often there is a price list available or a contract for you to sign that states that you understand the trainer’s programs and costs.
EJ: After your first initial phone call or meeting should you be the one to follow up with a list of questions?
TI: Yes, but try to have a concise, organized list. Remember trainers are always busy with something, helping clients, teaching students, or managing the care of the horses and barn. Questions might include, “What attire is expected when I lesson and show?â€, “How early should I be on my horse before the lesson begins?†(Being late and disorganized does not make for good learning experience for anyone and reflects your lack of dedication and respect for the trainer), “What is expected of me before and after lessons?†Some barns are “full service†and prefer the staff to groom and clean tack – but usually, even then, help is appreciated. Also, ask what is acceptable for tack trunks and equipment.
EJ: What should I tell my new trainer about my experience and level of riding?
TI: Be honest, and if you've been showing, describe the divisions, jump heights, and whether it was a local or “A†show. This way you will be getting the safest and best experience for yourself. No matter what you say, your trainer will know the truth, probably even before you go to mount up for your first lesson!
EJ: Should I send the trainer a video of myself riding?
TI: Ask first. If the answer is yes, send around a minute of flatwork and then one round of jumping. I often request a video because at Stone Bridge Farm we have so many riders coming from not only different parts of the country, but different parts of the world! This allows me to quickly assess their level, strengths and weaknesses, and it gives me a big heads up on what I will be doing with this rider and horse while they are under my guidance.
EJ: What about goal-setting and on-going discussions with my trainer?
TI: It is important early on to discuss and set goals that are realistic, obtainable and enjoyable. Also, keep in mind that in your first few lessons, you are likely to encounter some new terminology or training techniques. But always keep open, honest communication with your trainer and in no time, you are sure to build a strong bond. Communication, mutual trust, and clear expectations are key to forging a winning relationship.â€
For further information go to www.stonebridgefarm.net.
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