Long Awaited Book by Ambassadors of the Discipline
by Jessica Black with Eitan and Debbie Beth-Halachmy
The equestrian pursuit known as cowboy dressage was born of a desire to meld the best of western riding traditions and classical dressage in the pursuit of a harmonious relationship with a horse. Intended to be accessible to all, cowboy dressage is open to all breeds and all levels of riders. The singular goal is to consider the horse’s potential at all times as one strives to achieve a subtle and relaxed flow of information between horse and rider.
In this superbly written book, lifelong horsewoman Jessica Black traces the evolution of cowboy dressage back to its roots, sharing the story of Eitan and Debbie Beth-Halachmy and their phenomenal Morgan horses that have served as the movement’s ambassadors. She then provides an engaging and articulate explanation of the philosophy of cowboy dressage, expectations of the rider, what a participant needs in terms of equipment and how the most important element—the horse—should be prepared. Specific descriptions of the cowboy dressage tests and “court”—the training area designated for practicing the tests—are provided, with additional tools for those interested in competition, including rules, divisions, and how to execute and judge tests. An utterly engaging story as well as an organized how-to manual, Cowboy Dressage gives readers everything they need to find a “soft feel” with their horses.
224 pages, $29.99. To order Cowboy Dressage contact: Trafalgar Square Books, Box 257, Howe Hill Road, N. Pomfret, VT 05053. 800.423.4525 ∙ www.horseandriderbooks.com
Published in February 2016 Issue
The Northwest Horse Source is an independently owned and operated print and online magazine for horse owners and enthusiasts of all breeds and disciplines in the Pacific Northwest. Our contemporary editorial columns are predominantly written by experts in the region, covering the care, training, keeping and enjoyment of horses, with an eye to the specific concerns in our region.
