What is it that drives riders to wake up early, pull on uncomfortable clothes, and deal with rambunctious animals? Celebrating the thrill of competition that drives all participants, RIDING FOR THE BLUE is not another 'how-to' book offering tips competing at horse shows. It is a compilation of the often poignant, frequently humorous moments that riders experience while competing for the prize of all prizes - the blue ribbon. This book is for anyone and everyone who has been a part of the horse show world.

A dazzling, behind-the-scenes look at the incredible equestrian athletes and horses who compete and win for the USA. From playing with plastic ponies and taking their first riding lessons, to finding success in the arena, thousands of horse lovers hope they can one day represent the United States in international competition. Riding for the Team chronicles the lives of those who dreamed about competing for their country and “made it,” sharing inspirational stories from the international governing organization’s eight equestrian disciplines: show jumping dressage eventing driving vaulting reining endurance para-dressage Readers are immersed in the fascinating histories of the medal-winning riders, drivers, and vaulters who have dominated American equestrian sport over the past 28 years, such as: McLain Ward Karen O’Connor Debbie McDonald Tim McQuay Get the inside scoop on legendary horses who have become household names, including: Flexible Biko Verdades Gunners Special Nite Offering exclusive insights, Riding for the Team gives readers a behind-the-scenes look at the world of top-level equestrian sport. Athletes tell their stories and those of their horses during the years they honed their talent and dedicated their lives to representing their country in the Olympics, World Equestrian Games, World Championships, and Pan American Games. Beautifully illustrated with breathtaking photographs from prestigious competitions held around the world, Riding for the Team not only provides a dazzling record of American equestrian accomplishment, it promises to inspire the next generation of champions.

Terrified! That's the only word to describe how Gillian feels before every competition. Will she ever overcome her nervousness?

Widely known for her innovative teaching philosophy stressing body awareness, the value of "soft eyes," proper breathing, centering, and balance, Sally Swift has been a pioneering riding instructor for half a century. In book form for the first time, her methods enable horse and rider to achieve harmony, working together naturally, without pain. Unlike traditional teachers, Sally Swift does not believe in forced training techniques that cause stiff bodies and tense riding. Instead, through the use of vivid, unusual, and highly creative images that transcend mechanics ("Pretend you're a spruce tree; the roots grow down from your center as the trunk grows up"), plus a thorough knowledge of human and equine anatomy, this wise and inspiring teacher enables the conscientious equestrian to reassess habitual responses, in order to ride in natural positions, break through frustrating plateaus, and achieve ever-rising goals with comfort, vitality, and precision. Precise illustrations and photographs never before used in riding books explain anatomy and image work to give mind and body new and relaxed approaches to the inner process of riding. Centered Riding is for those with little experience all the way up to world class.

With proper training, any horse can become a great riding companion out on the trail. It's a matter of learning how to adapt your experience to your particular horse. Fully illustrated lessons in trail riding start with the differences in working with a retired jumper, an actively competing reiner, or even a natural-born trail horse. The section on riding techniques helps you use what you already know from hunter-jumper, dressage, or other experiences. Both solitary and group riding get special attention, as does handling different types of parks and paths. The full range of possible spooking challenges covers encountering animals, heavy traffic, weather, and children, as well as tripping, hoof injuries, mounting and dismounting in unusual situations, and other emergencies.