It is easy to see why people love horses, and it's understandable why people become enthralled with the "more exciting" disciplines such as show jumping and eventing, but I am frequently questioned as to why I am so utterly and completely obsessed with dressage. Well! Let me tell you! My answer may surprise you. The expected response would be "Well I just love feeling connected with my horse and thinking through every stride blah blah blah **cough cough** dressage riders are superior ** cough cough**" , but the truth is to be successful in any discipline, you need to be connected with your horse and think through every stride.
The major reason I love dressage can be summed up in one word: freestyle! I love the musical freestyle. Those of you that know me well know how much I love music. In my eyes, watching a horse move can often be compared to a synesthetic experience where you can see sound. Horses and music go together like strawberries and Gorgonzola (a delicious combo I promise!), and it seems that dressage is the one discipline, aside from possibly vaulting (and no one wants to see me attempt that), that allows one to compete at the very highest level while still leaving room for some artistic expression.
While far from a freestyle, here is a video of me on a horse I use to ride and train, named Hank put to music courtesy of the Flaming Lips. Enjoy!
Hanks Smokin' Gun
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