… I wanted to thank you for the time and the great lesson. As a war veteran it is very hard for me to create bonds or express emotion. That session of trust building with Kanin was the first time in forever where I felt connected again. It was a moment that I will never forget. And one that has forever changed how I look at the horses around me. I only did manual projects and labor at the rescue prior to that lesson. Because I know nothing about horses other than what I have read in horsemanship books. To be able to go out everyday and work with Kanin has changed my life in many positive ways. And now we do that relaxation exercise and trail walks together every time I volunteer… Kanin and I have been able to really build upon that first lesson. And the horse that was hard to catch and wasn’t sure if he could trust me has changed completely. Matthew O. (Workshop participants)
I had to take a moment to thank you for your time yesterday afternoon. The question mark that often loomed over my head (often times subconsciously) when asking my horse anything under saddle was removed with your instruction, insight, and feedback. This is a HUGE turning point for both he and I…so again…THANK YOU!!! I think, in no time and with practice, I will be able to breathe, sit the trot, and smile simultaneously. Heather B (Clinic participant)
The first time I saw Mr. King in person was at the PA Horse Expo in Harrisburg. He gave a demo about the horses footfalls and how that related to the timing of a riders aids. I had never seen this subject explained quite the way he presented it. It was fascinating to listen to and watch! He presented this very complex subject in a way that was easy to follow in a very upbeat and fun way. In that moment I knew I was watching someone very special… So I booked Patrick to come to our training facility and give a clinic. The clinic he taught was a huge success… He has since been back to our farm for another clinic weekend and we have him booked for more future dates.
I myself have been riding for over 30 years. I have taken countless lessons and clinics with many trainers and I have learned something from all of them. Riding with Patrick is beginning to fill in the missing pieces I have been searching so long for…He works on you and the horse at the same time. He has also remaindered me of this “to obtain lightness from your horse you must first offer lightness”… Thank you Patrick for sharing your passion and knowledge with us all! Linda B. (Montoursville, PA, clinic hostess)
That was the BEST clinic I have ever been to. For the past two years, I have been to many clinics. I took more home from this clinic than ever. Patrick has many gifts. He understands the horse, the rider and he is a teacher… I feel like I have the missing piece to the puzzle. I will be back because I have so much more to learn. Kelly D (Montoursville, PA, clinic participant)
… thank you for the wonderful information at the clinic and brilliant ride on Dakota! I’ve never seen him move like that, it was amazing and inspirational! The clinic has given me so much to think about. I’ve been struggling with my riding and confidence for a couple years and now realize it’s a balance problem. I’m so grateful that you made me aware because 2 weeks ago I was ready to give up and sell my horses! I was hopelessly frustrated and feeling terribly inadequate as a rider. Now I have a goal and some tools to help me become a much better rider and trainer… “Mary Buckskin”(Corcoran, MN, clinic participant)
… your teaching/coaching continues to gain my admiration and my appreciation for your clear, concise and thorough manner which makes it incredibly useful to the average amateur horse owner/rider! THIS is the level of instruction which our industry so desperately needs more of; no chest beating, no bull whip snapping, no bravado or ego trips, simple, excellent, straight forward instruction which 90% of horse owners can learn from and duplicate with some practice and understanding. Donna Snyder-Smith
Patrick worked with my horse privately on the first morning of the Western Dressage clinic in Corcoran, MN. And I participated in the Saturday session. I’m writing to say how absolutely pleased and grateful I am that I had the opportunity to meet Patrick one on one and participate in this clinic. The work he did with my very sensitive Thoroughbred was exactly what I needed to see and ask questions about. I have been struggling with focus and confidence issues with my horse since the day I bought him. Within 10 minutes of watching Patrick work with my horse I began to see and understand how critical it is to properly work with a sensitive horse without picking a fight or argument with him (the horse). Patrick fully understood the questions I was asking, as well as explaining to me step by step what my horse was reacting to and how to handle it. When it was time for me to get on for the riding portion, he helped me through the sticky spots and explained how to ask for more energy.
In my history of taking lessons for the last 15yrs NO INSTRUCTOR so far has ever explained in so much detail how to get my horse focused and stay with me through the ride as much as Patrick has, and he does it in a very kind way.The rest of the clinic Patrick gave solid detailed information on flexing through the jaw, poll, neck etc. that I have yet to hear from any professional in this area (twin cities). All of this can be read in some book somewhere but this kind of hands-on information is priceless, and he did a very good job of explaining all of it!
I just can’t say enough how much I enjoyed learning from Patrick. He is the kind of horseman that makes me want to continue being the ‘eternal student’! “Mary Chestnut” (Corcoran, MN, clinic participant)
I’ve been riding for thirty plus years and it never ceases to amaze me that I learn something new every time I ride with Patrick. Changing how you fundamentally think about riding is exhilarating; the paradigm shift is so beneficial for both horse and rider! Cori C. (Montoursville, PA, clinic participant)