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Conrad Schumacher’s National Dressage Symposium to be Hosted at Cutler Farm in October

by Brian Sosby | Jul 14, 2009, 11:29 AM

MEDFIELD, MA - Conrad Schumacher has selected Warren-McMullin Dressage and Cutler Farm Dressage as hosts of his annual National Dressage Symposium. Titled “Prepare to Win,” it marks Schumacher’s third visit to Cutler Farm Dressage, and the first time this event has been held in New England.

“Prepare to Win” will be held Saturday and Sunday, October 17-18, 2009, at Cutler Farm Dressage, located at 338 North Street in Medfield, MA. Auditors are welcome. Single-day auditing is $75 per day, which includes lunch and complimentary parking. Multi-day auditing is $65 per day, which also includes lunch and complimentary parking. Payment for this option must be received by October 1, 2009. Vendor space is also available.

More than a clinic, “Prepare to Win” offers horse, rider and auditor a comprehensive template for the systematic development of horse and rider from training level to grand prix. Schumacher will discuss his theories and bring them to life through a series of lectures, demonstrations and instruction.

“We are so thrilled that Mr. Schumacher has chosen us to host his symposium,” said Donna Cameron, owner of Cutler Farm Dressage.

“Riders and auditors who have joined us for his past visits know what a wonderful learning opportunity he provides. What makes this event so special is the additional content Mr. Schumacher will be able to offer through lectures and demonstrations.”

Cameron wants this event to be more than just a series of lessons for riders and auditors. “That’s why we’re also adding an evening lecture and special event open to everyone,” she said. “Learning is about creating a dialogue and a common ground for discussion. Taking us out of the arena and into an environment that fosters conversation and the exchange of ideas is what we want to offer.”

Conrad Schumacher has coached Olympic medalists, World and European Champions, in addition to medal winning Young Rider Teams in the United States and Europe.

His students have won more than 40 international medals, including Sven Rothenberger’s Individual Bronze and Team Silver at the 1996 Olympic Games, and Ellen Bontje and Gonnenlien Gordjin-Rothenberger’s 2000 Olympic Team Silver. Mr. Schumacher has been the official trainer to the British World Equestrian Games and Olympic Games teams.

A former German national dressage team member, Conrad Schumacher trained under the late German World Champion and Olympic medalist Josef Neckermann. He has been coaching and teaching around the world since 1982.

Bill Warren, one-half of Warren McMullin Dressage has ridden extensively with Schumacher. “Conrad is extremely classical in his approach,” he said. “But he’s also capable of pushing the rider beyond his or her comfort zone. It’s that approach that prepares the competitive rider to win.”

The foundation for Schumacher’s work is built on more than just competition. “We’re always reminded that the most important aspect of dressage is enjoyment of the sport,” said Bill McMullin. “That means utilizing, as Conrad describes it, the natural instincts of our horses to be forward, light and responsive. At the end of the day, it’s all about creating a partnership with your horse.”

For more information about the clinic, and for ongoing updates, including rider lists, visit www.CutlerFarmDressage.com.

ENDS