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Equestrian
^ “1 do not agree with what you have to say, but I’ll defend to the death your right to say it. ’ - Voltaire
St. Andrews Hosts EFMHA Workshop
The Therapeutic Horsemanship program hosted an EFMHA workshop; individuals came across
the state for the three day event. The Equine Facilatated Mental Health Association encour
ages education and individual interaction with the horse in the treatment of individuals with emo
tional, behavioral, social, mental, physical and/or spiritual needs. Throughout the three days, lec
tures were given about how instructors can encourage riders and there were labs that helped
partcipants see the difference in communication between instructors, riders and horses as well
(Preparing to saddle. Picture Courtesy’ of Kristina
Goodspced)
(Merlin perking up. Picture Courtesy of Kristina
Good speed)
(Partcipants leaning over the fence listening to the guest
speaker. Picture Courtes>' of Kristina Goodspeed)
Olympic Dressage Rider Visits the St. Andrews Equestrian Center
Kristina Goodspeed
For many of our Equestrians here at St. Andrews, the name Dorothy “Dottie” Morkis may
sound familiar Ms. Morkis is a Massachusetts native. She participated in the 1976 Montreal
Olympics as a Dressage competitor. She was awarded the Team Bronze Medal for her efforts. She
has also placed in several other competitions such as The Continental Cup in November 2004.
This past weekend, October 13* and 14*, Ms. Morkis held a Dressage Clinic at St, Andrews’ own lesson bam.
Riders signed up to partake in the event. During each student’s session, Ms. Morkis watched the rider attempt
anything from a canter to a trot, giving orders on howto handlethe horse andeven posture. The former champion
demanded near-perfection from her proteges. It was an exhilarating experience for everyone involved.
(Dottie Morkis talking. Picture Courtesy of
Rooney CofXman)
fe
)ottie Morkis coaching a IDA team meint
Picture Courtesy of Rooney Coffman)
(Waiting for instructioa Picture Courtesy of Kristina Goodspeed)