Busy weekend away at a Chris Irwin clinic with the youngest member of my herd - Shay, a two-year-old QH gelding. He trailered easily, adjusted well to his temporary home, and behaved very well in the arena -- all things considered. Last minute saddle change became necessary as we discovered he'd "outgrown" the saddle we had been using on him. Once in the arena, we worked on relaxing him into a spiraling halt, and walking out of it again with his head down. Lots of circles, spiral in, spiral out, reading his bend. After two hours, I don't know who was more tired -- him or me.

I am very pleased and excited to report that my performance earned me the right to call myself a Certified Chris Irwin Trainer as I achieved my Bronze Level designation.