Equestrian Jill Hughes 'dances with horses' at clinic

Jill Hughes took part in the "Dancing with Horses" clinic in Florida earlier this month.

As part of her continuing education, Jill Hughes, of Tignall, was one of 18 participants in The Equus Projects second annual "Dancing with Horses" clinic in Reddick, Florida, March 3-4. The clinic was taught by Karen Rohlf, Dressage Naturally, and JoAnna Mendl Shaw, a New York-based dance choreographer. Riders and auditors traveled from upstate New York, North Carolina, Virginia, Tennessee, Georgia, and Canada to attend. The Equus Projects dancers were honored to be teaching such a passionate group of accomplished equestrians.

Taking anatomical information, movement analysis, and performance training as taught to dancers, the "Dancing With Horses" clinic focused on alignment, skeletal and muscular connections, personal body assessments, and injury prevention. Sessions included dismounted warm-ups and exercises for strength and flexibility, innovative movement imagery, and information on movement dynamics.

Working in tandem with profes- sional dancers, riders received coaching on performance and worked on phrases for new and innovative choreography. In a stunning demo, Rohlf demonstrated, with her horse Ovation and then with Monty, how those subtle and complex dynamics affect communication and liberty play.

Karen Rohlf specializes in Dressage Naturally (www.dressagenaturally.net) and is also a Parelli Associate Professional. JoAnna Mendl Shaw is founder of the Equus Projects (www.dancing withhorses.org) and is currently a faculty member of the Julliard School in New York City.

Hughes remains dedicated to advancing her equus connection and assisting fellow horsemen in their pursuit of a more integrated relationship with their equine partners. For information or to apply for upcoming Integrated Horsemanship lessons, contact Hughes by phone at 706-285-2103, by email at goldhorse@nu-z.net, or visit www.goldhorseranch.com.

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