Tommy Fahey Horsemanship

06/29/2025

“Does anyone have any snacks!?”

06/26/2025

Lison is a huge Whitney fan!

06/26/2025

Her Majesty Gillyana JL taking herself back to her palace!

06/23/2025

From babies on boxes, to cuddles with Stella, to FEI horses learning to relax, it was a great weekend clinic in the heat wave at Perfect Stride Equestrian!

Thanks to everyone who came to participate and audit! And huge thank you to Kylee for organizing and riding her butt off in the heat!

06/22/2025

It was a bit on the warm side at Perfect Stride Equestrian today! Great day training horses! Thankful for indoor arenas and lots of fans!

06/18/2025

Equestrian sport for all. 🏳️‍🌈

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06/18/2025

It’s so humid the salt blocks are sweating 🥵

06/13/2025

One must be in control of one’s self first.

Control vs. Controlling

Being in control is very different from being controlling.

Having control of your horse means they willingly follow your guidance. They choose to respond to your aids because they trust your leadership. This kind of control is essential not only for safety but also for true enjoyment in riding. Proper control doesn’t restrict the horse — it brings out their best abilities and allows them to perform with freedom, balance, and confidence. This is the art of riding.

Much like a skilled saxophone player controls their instrument — managing breath, timing, and expression to shape the music — a rider must also possess self-control. The rider's mind and body must be disciplined, balanced, and aware. To have genuine control over another being, you must first master control over yourself.

In contrast, being controlling is the opposite. A controlling rider lacks self-control, often blaming the horse for mistakes that stem from their own instability or frustration. Their attempts to force submission limit the horse’s physical and mental ability to perform with ease, grace, and harmony.

True control inspires confidence and partnership.
Controlling behavior suppresses ability and erodes trust.

06/13/2025