Thanks to Pluvinel, who got me interested in Working Equitation on a thread here, I started to learn about Baroque Equestrian Games/Institute while I was at a show Labor Day weekend in Lexington. I ended up taking a lesson in mid-September with Bruno Gonzales who along with his partner Tina Cristiani Veder (they are based in Florida) conceived of and organizes clinics, lessons, and competitions. I was fully prepared to be underwhelmed. Well. I am SO impressed. Bruno is incredibly knowledgable and talented as is Tina. I decided to go to their competition in Lexington this past weekend, and in preparation took some lessons with Lani Debaets who is in Virginia, and whose teaching style is perfect for me. After only 6 weeks of even knowing about this approach, Dior and I went to the Games in Lexington last weekend and had such a wonderful time. The riders and other involved people are supportive, intelligent, thoughtful, and have so much knowledge and valuable experience. The competition was friendly and relaxed, unlike what I sometimes have experienced in “mainstream” dressage competitions. In just 6 weeks my horse’s balance has changed considerably and she looks amazing. When I saw the photos from the show I could really see the progress and difference in her. There was a musical presentation division and I dressed as a buckaroo with a vintage hand-tooled ranch saddle I found and a gorgeous saddle blanket. One of the farm workers here let me borrow his lasso, and Ignatius Creegan made me a perfect buckaroo hat. Everything about this competition was just absolutely first class. I am so glad I looked into something that maybe some years ago I would have scoffed at.
One of the trainers in my area is very into the Baroque Games and does very well.
I have to say I’m still scoffing. I am not into the drama, costumes blah and blah BUT I have never been so maybe I should reserve judgement. Very glad you enjoyed this as it is becoming popular.
Everyone does not want to, nor does everyone have to, wear costumes. For riding their version of tests (they call them patterns), attire is breeches, a vest, and a solid color shirt, with boots. For the musical freestyle, costumes are allowed and even encouraged and yes, some were kind of glittery, but that is not a requirement. I’m not sure what drama you are referring to. I didn’t experience any drama. During presentations of various baroque breeds, attire was flexible. There was a “gala” presentation and yes costumes were used for this, similar to what you’d see at one of the equestrian theater productions. There were various educational seminars and talks between classes. One of the things that was fun and liberating for me was NOT having to conform to the same old cookie cutter tack and attire. Everyone there seemed to really care about their horses and treated the horses and other competitors with respect and professionalism. The judge was Jos Sevriens, a USEF Dressage Sport Horse Judge, clinician, and trainer.
Sounds like you had a great time!! and on FB I saw you even met one of my neighbors (not really but she lives about 5 min away from me, so pretty close)
Last year the BEGI held a clinic/seminar here in Ocala with Jos Severens and Bruno teaching. I rode with Jos, and had a wonderful time. And by the way, the little white mini? Pasha belongs to my trainer… and her sister, Desiree, was a presenter…
That mini was the cutest thing I ever saw! Really nice conformation, not to mention incredible mane and tail…
Bruno and Tina come to Virginia a couple of times a year, and I have access to someone who rides with them and is a good fit for me. Desiree was one of the people who impressed me with her kindness and friendliness toward others and her care and concern for the horses.
