In the 36 years that I have been riding horses, 23 of which have been focussed on the equestrian sport of Dressage, I've never had my skills or knowledge tested outside of riding competitions.   Last month, that changed.

During the 4th of July break, instead of basking outside in the glorious weather we had, spending time in my garden, playing with the horses, or just chilling out, I spent many long hours in our library or at the computer, reading, studying, writing essay answers to fixed questions, and working on two presentations, one of which was a 20 minute video.   All of this work was done in preparation for and as part of a series of American Riding Instructors Association exams I took at the end of the week.

My personal goal was to be recognised and certified by the American Riding Instructors Association as a qualified Dressage instructor.   While I had put myself forward for their highest level of stringent examinations, I was realistically prepared to be certified at the entry level, Level I.   Actually, it is more accurate to say I was hoping, at the minimum, to at least get certified at Level I.

This week, the exam results came in!   And I'm still blown away!   After decades of riding, competing, judging, and helping others, my skills were recognised and certified for the top certification qualification:   Level III Dressage.   Way cool!

Of course, with this certification, I now carry the new responsibility of constantly being a referencable & excellent example of the qualities & standards of safety, knowledge, and integrity for which the ARIA strives.   (That's not so different from being a good Sun employee!)

Upon hearing the news, my students, of course, were blase...   'Seems they expected nothing less from their favourite Dressage coach.