Coaching Through the Course Builders Eyes

APC's £57 General Entry £62. Including Booking Fee

Join coach, competitor and course designer Tom Fray for a unique full-day CPD workshop exploring the relationship between course design, horse performance and effective coaching.

Few people have the opportunity to see show jumping through the eyes of a coach, course designer and competitor all at once. Drawing on experience from all three perspectives, Tom will explain the questions horses are asked on course, why lines and distances ride the way they do, and how a greater understanding of course design can help coaches create better exercises and ask clearer questions of horses and riders in training and competition.

Throughout the day, Tom will connect course design principles with everyday coaching challenges, helping you develop a sharper eye for analysing courses, and use this knowledge to support riders to improve their performance. Whether you're building exercises for your clients, working on hired courses at training venues or preparing riders for competition, you'll leave with knowledge that can be applied immediately in your coaching.

This full-day workshop provides the opportunity to explore the subject in real depth. Through classroom discussion, practical exercises, course walks and a ridden demonstration, you'll examine how materials, positioning, arena size, surface and distance influence jumping performance and the way horses and riders respond to the questions being asked.

You'll explore course specifications across different levels, walk a course with a designer's eye, identify potential problems and discuss possible improvements. Practical distance-setting exercises and a ridden demonstration will bring the theory to life, helping you connect what you see on course with what you do as a coach.

Particularly valuable for coaches working towards BHS Stage 4 and above, this workshop offers relevant CPD for coaches across BHS, British Showjumping, British Eventing, British Dressage and Pony Club pathways, whether developing their qualifications or maintaining accreditation.

Refreshments provided. Please bring your own lunch.

Tom Fray is a BHS senior coach in complete horsemanship. UKCC Level 3 coach and British Show Jumping level 3 course designer.  He is known for his friendly encouraging coaching style and eagerness to develop and support other coaches. A great day of learning in a supportive and inspiring atmosphere is guaranteed!

Photo credit to Majestic Media (https://www.facebook.com/majesticphotographybyshelleysmith)