LOWER LAKE — Oak Creek Ranch and Riding Academy, a nonprofit organization focusing on the youth in the community, recently welcomed renowned horseman John Saint Ryan for a four-day horsemanship clinic. The clinic offered a variety of equine-related activities, Sept. 30 through Oct. 3 in Lower Lake.
The event was sponsored by Therry Jay, who discovered Ryan a few years ago through a fellow equestrian in Mendocino. Ryan now leads educational clinics in Lake County three times a year. “The participation at a fall clinic was phenomenal,” Jay said. “We had some new faces time, which was exciting and we hope to see more at our next clinic in Spring 2011.”
Ryan”s clinics aim to bridge the gap between classical riding and natural horsemanship. His teachings focus on helping the students develop a deeper level of communication with their horses and unlock the incredible potential that each horse has to offer. Ryan aims to teach his students, from beginners to experienced riders, the importance of “body, mind and spirit” in every aspect of their relationship with their horse.
“One of the reasons I enjoy coming to Lake County to conduct my clinics is the strong level of commitment of the riders who participate,” Ryan said. “It is very gratifying for me as an instructor to see the steady progress and improvement in their riding and their horsemanship skills year after year. I look forward to seeing everyone again in April of next year.”
Ryan brings to the arena more than 20 years experience having studied horsemanship with some of the best riders in the world including Jose Manuel Martin De Leon, monitor of the Real Escuela of Jerez; Sr. Joaquin Rodriguez de La Villa, national judge for Doma Classica Spain; and Mestre D. Francisco de Braganca of Portugal. He is said to be most well known for his extensive study with Master Horseman Tom Dorrance.
“It all goes back to basic, fundamental horsemanship,” Jay said. “John tailors his lessons to the rider to fit their needs and their skill levels. He works wonderfully with children as well as with seasoned, experienced riders. He also assesses each animal very well and sees immediately what the horse needs and what kind of help the rider needs.”
Oak Creek Ranch Riding Academy provides therapeutic riding programs for participants of all ages. At Oak Creek, they think through equine activities, the challenged rider can develop self-awareness, self-confidence and improve their concentration. Equine therapy, they say, offers physical benefits such as muscle strengthening and stretching as well as refines motor skills. Proceeds from the clinic will benefit Oak Creek”s nonprofit programs.
Contact South County reporter Denise Rockenstein at drockenstein@clearlakeobserver.com or call her directly at 994-6444, ext. 11.
