~ students of tresssa's~
A horse! A horse! My kingdom for a horse!
William Shakespeare
William Shakespeare
|
SANDRA SURBER GAINES
I bought my first Friesian in 1988. I showed in ridden and driven dressage. As I am primarily a driver, I soon discovered the advantage of having my horses regularly ridden by an experienced dressage rider. It resulted in much better self-carriage and good muscle development. Many years later, we moved to the Napa Valley and I learned of Traditions Farm and their wonderful staff and facilities. Their goals mesh very well with mine and I can highly recommend them. I am a firm believer in the classical methods of training dressage. |
"Let the love for the feeling of responsibility toward the horse rule all your decisions and actions."
Egon von Neindorff
Egon von Neindorff
|
JASON NICHOLS
My horse and I have traveled through some rough country together. We were once riding in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of Colorado, some of the highest and steepest peaks in North America. When we descended a trail with full saddle bags I noticed how hard he came down on his shoulders. This is the moment I began to wonder how I could encourage my horse to use his body in a healthy way. When the snows fell we made our way home to Sonoma County and my search for answers led me to explore classical dressage and Traditions Farm. In short order I was convinced of the importance of the classical equestrian tradition and the value of Tressa's knowledge and instruction. The practice here has not only improved my horse's musculature, balance and alignment, it has taught me the scope of my responsibility as a rider, especially the ways in which I can make his job of carrying me far easier. In a single year, my horse, "El Caballo Ingenioso Don Coyote de la Nevada" has been transformed dramatically under Tressa's expert tutelage. |
"Coyote" before "Coyote" after one year of dressage training at Traditions Farm...
"There is a moment after riding when you stop and listen. What you hear is your heart beat in perfect rhythm with the beat of your horse's heart. It is a moment of pure magic."
Chloe Thurlow
Chloe Thurlow
|
PALOMA DAVID
I started riding with Tressa in 2014. I had just moved back into the area, and was entertaining the possibility of getting back into riding after a few years when a friend told me about Tressa. Through three day eventing, I had limited experience with dressage but I had always wanted to learn more. When I heard what Tressa had to offer in Classical Dressage, I was excited to have the opportunity to work with someone as talented as her. This experience has forever changed my perspective towards what my goals are when interacting with horses. I feel so thankful to get the chance to learn the principles passed on as taught by the old masters. In the time since I started here at Traditions Farms I have had infinite moments where I have felt thankful for what I have found. |
A horse is a thing of such beauty. . .none will tire of looking at him as long as he displays himself in his splendor.
Xenophon
Xenophon
Susan on "Hendrik"
SUSAN YASINITSKY
I've known Tressa so long, that after the first 20 years, I've lost
count. It all started with a Thoroughbred off the track named "Gene" that many
told me wouldn't amount to much in the Dressage ring, but with Tressa's training
he became a star! Three horses and many experiences later I now own Hendrik, a
Friesian that Tressa hand picked for me when he was just two. Now at 12 he's
perfecting Piaffe and Passage.. What fun! Tressa has been there with me through
thick and thin; from Pre Training level schooling shows to upper level USDF
shows, to body parts that say "I can't do it!!" The whole while she keeps saying
"Oh yes you can!" Whatever the situation she has always believed in me and the
horses that I love. She has never once given up on making me the best rider and
owner that I could be.. I cannot imagine trusting anyone else to train and care
for my horse.
I've known Tressa so long, that after the first 20 years, I've lost
count. It all started with a Thoroughbred off the track named "Gene" that many
told me wouldn't amount to much in the Dressage ring, but with Tressa's training
he became a star! Three horses and many experiences later I now own Hendrik, a
Friesian that Tressa hand picked for me when he was just two. Now at 12 he's
perfecting Piaffe and Passage.. What fun! Tressa has been there with me through
thick and thin; from Pre Training level schooling shows to upper level USDF
shows, to body parts that say "I can't do it!!" The whole while she keeps saying
"Oh yes you can!" Whatever the situation she has always believed in me and the
horses that I love. She has never once given up on making me the best rider and
owner that I could be.. I cannot imagine trusting anyone else to train and care
for my horse.
Susan Yasinitsky's Thoroughbred "GENE" 25yrs. under rider Tressa Boulden
He has galloped through young girl's dreams,
added richness to grown
women's lives,
and served men in war and strife.
Toni Robinson
BEVERLY CHAMBERS
I first met Tressa when I was just a Mom watching her 11 year old take
lessons. Never did I think by asking, “Do you ever give parents lessons?”, that an incredible journey of learning would begin.
At one time, Tressa had 3 generations of our family at Traditions Farms, myself, my
daughter and my grandson. Through the years and many horses,
including a racetrack Thoroughbred, warmbloods and now Johan, the Friesian,
Tressa Boulden has always held true to her belief in Classic Dressage and what
it can do for any horse.
I trust her methods, beliefs and management of my horse impeccably.
When I ride my supple, forward horse who started out as a fore-handy tank,
I know we are both where we should be – at Traditions Farms.
I first met Tressa when I was just a Mom watching her 11 year old take
lessons. Never did I think by asking, “Do you ever give parents lessons?”, that an incredible journey of learning would begin.
At one time, Tressa had 3 generations of our family at Traditions Farms, myself, my
daughter and my grandson. Through the years and many horses,
including a racetrack Thoroughbred, warmbloods and now Johan, the Friesian,
Tressa Boulden has always held true to her belief in Classic Dressage and what
it can do for any horse.
I trust her methods, beliefs and management of my horse impeccably.
When I ride my supple, forward horse who started out as a fore-handy tank,
I know we are both where we should be – at Traditions Farms.
When you are on a great horse, you have the best seat you will ever
have.
Sir Winston Churchill
have.
Sir Winston Churchill
Andrea riding "Sami"
ANDREA LEMUS
I have been training with Tressa for 14 years, and every lesson some new nuance of training and development of the horse and rider is revealed. She knows all aspects of the horse and horsemanship. She is able to develop both horse and rider in a clear and concise, and consistent manner into a harmonious picture.
I have been training with Tressa for 14 years, and every lesson some new nuance of training and development of the horse and rider is revealed. She knows all aspects of the horse and horsemanship. She is able to develop both horse and rider in a clear and concise, and consistent manner into a harmonious picture.
A horse is the projection of peoples' dreams about
themselves - strong, powerful, beautiful - and it has the capability of giving
us escape from our mundane existence.
Pam Brown
themselves - strong, powerful, beautiful - and it has the capability of giving
us escape from our mundane existence.
Pam Brown
IRIS ROGERS
Why I Ride
On a summer day in my mid-forties, while
watching horses race by me, I had a sudden and simple insight about the horse’s
contribution to civilization. At that moment, I saw the willingness of the
horse to try to make their way with us. I yearned to understand what that meant.
I decided that I would learn to ride.
I knew nothing about horses at that time,
but I knew that good riding involved good communication and respect for the horse.
I found out that the principles of classical riding embraced these ideas and more.
I learned that balance and lightness were tools of communication along with a good seat.
How could I learn to ride like this?
On the bulletin board of Shaw’s Tack Shop was Tressa Boulden’s card,
“Traditional Riding, Lunge Lessons for an independent seat.”
This was it! I knew that this horseman understood my quest to ride.
My journey began. I started lunge lessons with Tressa as an absolute beginner.
It’s been over twelve years now and I’ve learned so much about riding,
not only as a physically demanding sport that requires strength, coordination,
and body awareness, but about communication, energy flow, and about being quick, sensitive,
and responsive. I am enjoying this journey immensely.
Tressa, and my Morgan horse, Beau, have taught me much, and not just about classical dressage.
The principles of classical riding have taught me to be a balanced rider, As a result,
Beau is free to develop his natural rhythm and tempo, moving with ease and grace.
Isn't that what we all want for our horses?
Thanks,
Tressa!
Why I Ride
On a summer day in my mid-forties, while
watching horses race by me, I had a sudden and simple insight about the horse’s
contribution to civilization. At that moment, I saw the willingness of the
horse to try to make their way with us. I yearned to understand what that meant.
I decided that I would learn to ride.
I knew nothing about horses at that time,
but I knew that good riding involved good communication and respect for the horse.
I found out that the principles of classical riding embraced these ideas and more.
I learned that balance and lightness were tools of communication along with a good seat.
How could I learn to ride like this?
On the bulletin board of Shaw’s Tack Shop was Tressa Boulden’s card,
“Traditional Riding, Lunge Lessons for an independent seat.”
This was it! I knew that this horseman understood my quest to ride.
My journey began. I started lunge lessons with Tressa as an absolute beginner.
It’s been over twelve years now and I’ve learned so much about riding,
not only as a physically demanding sport that requires strength, coordination,
and body awareness, but about communication, energy flow, and about being quick, sensitive,
and responsive. I am enjoying this journey immensely.
Tressa, and my Morgan horse, Beau, have taught me much, and not just about classical dressage.
The principles of classical riding have taught me to be a balanced rider, As a result,
Beau is free to develop his natural rhythm and tempo, moving with ease and grace.
Isn't that what we all want for our horses?
Thanks,
Tressa!
A lovely horse is always an experience.... It is an
emotional experience of the kind that is spoiled by words.
Beryl Markham
emotional experience of the kind that is spoiled by words.
Beryl Markham
Tricia on "Andy"
TRICIA HENRY
As a re-entry rider, I first met Tressa in my quest to get into shape for a
horse trek in Ireland. After many years of neglecting my body at a desk,
the demands of riding for 8 hours straight was unthinkable. Tressa helped
me strengthen my back and core, improve my riding skills and horsemanship so
that I was able to complete the trek safely and with much joy. Upon my return,
she assisted me in finding my personal equine partner for future miles of trail
riding at home. At the time, I did not know the differences in various
dressage training but during the process of training my new, young horse, I
began to realize and appreciate the treasure of Tressa's background and
philosophy. Not only with my horse, but with others, I witnessed the
transformation of gangly, crookedness and tension to beauty, health, correctness
and calmness. I am convinced that the classical dressage training handed down
from the old masters like Egon Von Neindorff, to Melissa Simms, to Tressa
is one of the best I can hope to strive for and offer my horses. Now as
owner of my own equestrian facility, I recommend Tressa to my clients for training.
As a re-entry rider, I first met Tressa in my quest to get into shape for a
horse trek in Ireland. After many years of neglecting my body at a desk,
the demands of riding for 8 hours straight was unthinkable. Tressa helped
me strengthen my back and core, improve my riding skills and horsemanship so
that I was able to complete the trek safely and with much joy. Upon my return,
she assisted me in finding my personal equine partner for future miles of trail
riding at home. At the time, I did not know the differences in various
dressage training but during the process of training my new, young horse, I
began to realize and appreciate the treasure of Tressa's background and
philosophy. Not only with my horse, but with others, I witnessed the
transformation of gangly, crookedness and tension to beauty, health, correctness
and calmness. I am convinced that the classical dressage training handed down
from the old masters like Egon Von Neindorff, to Melissa Simms, to Tressa
is one of the best I can hope to strive for and offer my horses. Now as
owner of my own equestrian facility, I recommend Tressa to my clients for training.
No hour of life is wasted that is spent in the
saddle.
Winston Churchill
saddle.
Winston Churchill
Meeghan with "Frits Z"
MEEGHAN VERMEULEN
I have been working with Tressa Boulden for six years.
When I arrived at Traditions Farm my goal was to get involved with horses
again as it had been a childhood love of mine. Not only did Tressa successfully
guide me back into the saddle she also coached me through the process of
buying my first horse, now 13 year old Frits the Friesian.
Both my horse and I have evolved from inexperienced students in Dressage
to earned ribbon holders at rated shows! Training with Tressa has allowed
me to grow as a rider and a person. I am honored to be student of Traditions Farm.
I have been working with Tressa Boulden for six years.
When I arrived at Traditions Farm my goal was to get involved with horses
again as it had been a childhood love of mine. Not only did Tressa successfully
guide me back into the saddle she also coached me through the process of
buying my first horse, now 13 year old Frits the Friesian.
Both my horse and I have evolved from inexperienced students in Dressage
to earned ribbon holders at rated shows! Training with Tressa has allowed
me to grow as a rider and a person. I am honored to be student of Traditions Farm.
Horses and children, I often think, have a lot of the good sense there is in the world.
Josephine Demott Robinson
Barbara riding "Finn"
BARBARA DOANE LASSA
I first met Tressa at a local CDS educational clinic that she organized. I had been looking for a trainer that could help me with my seat and I wanted to learn about "Classical Dressage." Even though I had been riding and showing in dressage, I did not know the true meaning of "Classical Dressage."
My beautiful horse and I moved to Traditions Farm and my Journey began. Tressa took away my double bridle, spurs, changed my saddle, even changed my horses shoes. She began teaching me the management of the horse as well as the riding and training.
I now know the meaning of "Classical Dressage." Riding a happy balanced , flexible horse is the most wonderful feeling I have ever experienced. My horse and I are very grateful!
I first met Tressa at a local CDS educational clinic that she organized. I had been looking for a trainer that could help me with my seat and I wanted to learn about "Classical Dressage." Even though I had been riding and showing in dressage, I did not know the true meaning of "Classical Dressage."
My beautiful horse and I moved to Traditions Farm and my Journey began. Tressa took away my double bridle, spurs, changed my saddle, even changed my horses shoes. She began teaching me the management of the horse as well as the riding and training.
I now know the meaning of "Classical Dressage." Riding a happy balanced , flexible horse is the most wonderful feeling I have ever experienced. My horse and I are very grateful!
In riding a horse we borrow freedom.
Helen Thomson
JUDY TAMAGNI
With the purchase of my first Friesian, it was time to step away from the realm of
cutting horses and enter into the arena of dressage. Tressa was recommended to me
by a mutual friend, Tricia Henry, partly due to Tressa’s experience with baroque
breeds and also because of Tressa’s philosophy towards the training of horses
and classical dressage. Tressa was willing to take on the daunting task of a
newbie dressage rider – me - and a green 4 year old Friesian. With the “newbie”
who wanted to do as much as possible herself. Tressa’s first task was to get rid
of my “cutters slouch” and eliminate the great “in the dirt” stop I had put on Victor! She also, is still working on convincing me of why in the world anyone
would ever want to sit the trot on a horse with such huge movement! One of the
greatest accomplishments so far has not been with the Friesian, but with my
little Quarter Horse mare. She had developed some lameness in her shoulder and
neck that was not relieved by rest, anti-inflammatories, and body work. I was
sure that at the age of 11 her riding days were done and destined to be a
broodmare/pasture ornament. With the help of Tressa evaluating her and
subsequently working with her (and me) getting us straight, supple and collected
we are heading towards levels with her I hadn’t of thought possible. Lead
changes here we come! There is no better way to convince
someone of the benefits of dressage for any discipline of riding than to see
their horse come out 100% sound.
My goals have not been to make it big on some show circuit, but
to continue my journey of constantly learning and bettering myself as a rider
and partner with my horse. I am so appreciative of Tressa helping me along this path!
Next step – getting the 3 year old Friesian going!
With the purchase of my first Friesian, it was time to step away from the realm of
cutting horses and enter into the arena of dressage. Tressa was recommended to me
by a mutual friend, Tricia Henry, partly due to Tressa’s experience with baroque
breeds and also because of Tressa’s philosophy towards the training of horses
and classical dressage. Tressa was willing to take on the daunting task of a
newbie dressage rider – me - and a green 4 year old Friesian. With the “newbie”
who wanted to do as much as possible herself. Tressa’s first task was to get rid
of my “cutters slouch” and eliminate the great “in the dirt” stop I had put on Victor! She also, is still working on convincing me of why in the world anyone
would ever want to sit the trot on a horse with such huge movement! One of the
greatest accomplishments so far has not been with the Friesian, but with my
little Quarter Horse mare. She had developed some lameness in her shoulder and
neck that was not relieved by rest, anti-inflammatories, and body work. I was
sure that at the age of 11 her riding days were done and destined to be a
broodmare/pasture ornament. With the help of Tressa evaluating her and
subsequently working with her (and me) getting us straight, supple and collected
we are heading towards levels with her I hadn’t of thought possible. Lead
changes here we come! There is no better way to convince
someone of the benefits of dressage for any discipline of riding than to see
their horse come out 100% sound.
My goals have not been to make it big on some show circuit, but
to continue my journey of constantly learning and bettering myself as a rider
and partner with my horse. I am so appreciative of Tressa helping me along this path!
Next step – getting the 3 year old Friesian going!
There is nothing so good for the inside of a man as the outside of a horse.
John Lubbock
Cynthia on "Beau"
CYNTHIA KUROSU
I have been a student of Tressa's for over 4 years. I knew I wanted to learn classical dressage, so when I sought out a place to learn I looked for an instructor who taught lunge lessons. This is what brought me to Tressa and her Traditions farm. I discovered riding late in life as a 40 something adult, So needless to say, I had a lot to learn! Under Tressa's careful guidance, everything systematically broken down for me. From tacking up to lunging, to learning how horses think. I ended up part leasing a horse, "Beau", from Iris another student. This has given me flexibility and the benefit of riding a well trained horse.
As a teacher Tressa is incredibly skillful. She knows what to teach and when to teach it and how it should be taught. With her keen eye and tactful guidance, lesson after lesson Tressa manages to get the best out of me.
I have been a student of Tressa's for over 4 years. I knew I wanted to learn classical dressage, so when I sought out a place to learn I looked for an instructor who taught lunge lessons. This is what brought me to Tressa and her Traditions farm. I discovered riding late in life as a 40 something adult, So needless to say, I had a lot to learn! Under Tressa's careful guidance, everything systematically broken down for me. From tacking up to lunging, to learning how horses think. I ended up part leasing a horse, "Beau", from Iris another student. This has given me flexibility and the benefit of riding a well trained horse.
As a teacher Tressa is incredibly skillful. She knows what to teach and when to teach it and how it should be taught. With her keen eye and tactful guidance, lesson after lesson Tressa manages to get the best out of me.
Heaven is high and earth wide. If you ride three feet
higher above the ground than other men, you will know what that means.
Rudolf C. Binding
higher above the ground than other men, you will know what that means.
Rudolf C. Binding
Laura and Hechicero
LAURA BOWLBY
I began taking lessons with Tressa over a year ago as I wanted to
continue building my dressage foundations with the rare trainer who truly
embraces the classical dressage philosophy.
Tressa continues the legacy of the art of
classical horsemanship embodied by Egon von Neindorff and
Melissa Simms bringing these principles alive for me through our work
together (and with lots of patience and humor on her part).
I know that what I'm learning through Tressa will make me the best rider I can be for the
horse I am riding- no matter if I'm in the training ring, competitions or on the trail.
Her Traditions Farm offers a private, individualized training and boarding experience.
Tressa oversees all aspects of my horse¹s care in addition to our training,
how fortunate my wonderful Andalusian gelding, Hechicero, and I
are to be in her knowledgeable and caring hands!
I began taking lessons with Tressa over a year ago as I wanted to
continue building my dressage foundations with the rare trainer who truly
embraces the classical dressage philosophy.
Tressa continues the legacy of the art of
classical horsemanship embodied by Egon von Neindorff and
Melissa Simms bringing these principles alive for me through our work
together (and with lots of patience and humor on her part).
I know that what I'm learning through Tressa will make me the best rider I can be for the
horse I am riding- no matter if I'm in the training ring, competitions or on the trail.
Her Traditions Farm offers a private, individualized training and boarding experience.
Tressa oversees all aspects of my horse¹s care in addition to our training,
how fortunate my wonderful Andalusian gelding, Hechicero, and I
are to be in her knowledgeable and caring hands!
A man on a horse is spiritually as well as physically bigger
than a man on foot.
John Steinbeck
WENDEE WALKER
The book titled, The Art of Classical Horsemanship by Egon von Neindorff is one of the first things Tressa showed me when we met at her lovely boutique facility, Traditions Farm. Tressa recommended that I find a copy of this gorgeous book published by CADMOS, to study for understanding the system of the "Pure Classical School", that she and her mentor Melissa Simms practice.
After the farm tour, I was introduced to my lunge lesson partner, a gentle 17 hand Friesian school master named Hendrik. That first lunge lesson built my confidence and left me sore in all the appropriate muscles. Shortly after that first session, Tressa asked about my goals, and I made arrangements to trailer in for lessons with my almost 3rd level horse.
Tressa works horses in hand, rides, teaches students, and manages her farm. She has an incredible eye for detail, and clarity in communicating. She will repeat her directions in various ways, until you understand. One of the first things Tressa does is slow everything down. From the subtle flexion of the throat latch, to a step by step turn on the forehand or haunches, I have learned to slow everything down. Tressa is patient and systematic in breaking exercises into small slow tasks. For example, she's had me ride a 20m circle on the first and second tracks. When my control of the horse is at all wobbly, out come the cones to create a corridor! Another exercise that influenced my understanding of contact and using my seat better involves crossing the stirrups over the saddle and riding specific patterns at sitting trot with both reins in one hand. My horse and I were transformed by practicing going straight, turning, and 10m circles in this manner. When stirrups and two hands were back in the picture, balance and connection was improved.
Tressa translates the feeling of asking a horse to give us the posture and movement requested, into words that a rider can understand, then act on with precise aids and timing. Directions heard while auditing or riding are: reach your contact forward, now his hind leg is taking a longer step, what adjustments do you need to make? Be ultra aware to supple your connection, keep elbows in front of rib cage, hands in front of saddle, thumbs up, carry hands like you are carrying a tray, ride with two hands as if one, half halt your entire body - not just outside rein, close outside thigh to move the horse's shoulder over, DO IT AGAIN, ride every step, align the neck and allow him to reach forward, give him his neck, carry your chest, think of your core as the mast on the sailboat, ride towards your hand into the connection...
The book titled, The Art of Classical Horsemanship by Egon von Neindorff is one of the first things Tressa showed me when we met at her lovely boutique facility, Traditions Farm. Tressa recommended that I find a copy of this gorgeous book published by CADMOS, to study for understanding the system of the "Pure Classical School", that she and her mentor Melissa Simms practice.
After the farm tour, I was introduced to my lunge lesson partner, a gentle 17 hand Friesian school master named Hendrik. That first lunge lesson built my confidence and left me sore in all the appropriate muscles. Shortly after that first session, Tressa asked about my goals, and I made arrangements to trailer in for lessons with my almost 3rd level horse.
Tressa works horses in hand, rides, teaches students, and manages her farm. She has an incredible eye for detail, and clarity in communicating. She will repeat her directions in various ways, until you understand. One of the first things Tressa does is slow everything down. From the subtle flexion of the throat latch, to a step by step turn on the forehand or haunches, I have learned to slow everything down. Tressa is patient and systematic in breaking exercises into small slow tasks. For example, she's had me ride a 20m circle on the first and second tracks. When my control of the horse is at all wobbly, out come the cones to create a corridor! Another exercise that influenced my understanding of contact and using my seat better involves crossing the stirrups over the saddle and riding specific patterns at sitting trot with both reins in one hand. My horse and I were transformed by practicing going straight, turning, and 10m circles in this manner. When stirrups and two hands were back in the picture, balance and connection was improved.
Tressa translates the feeling of asking a horse to give us the posture and movement requested, into words that a rider can understand, then act on with precise aids and timing. Directions heard while auditing or riding are: reach your contact forward, now his hind leg is taking a longer step, what adjustments do you need to make? Be ultra aware to supple your connection, keep elbows in front of rib cage, hands in front of saddle, thumbs up, carry hands like you are carrying a tray, ride with two hands as if one, half halt your entire body - not just outside rein, close outside thigh to move the horse's shoulder over, DO IT AGAIN, ride every step, align the neck and allow him to reach forward, give him his neck, carry your chest, think of your core as the mast on the sailboat, ride towards your hand into the connection...
"When I bestride him, I soar, I am a hawk. He trots the air, the earth sings when he touches it."
William Shakespeare
William Shakespeare
KIP MISTRAL
Five stars out of five stars rating! *****
I met Tressa Boulden when I was planning to move to Sebastopol with my Andalusian stallion. Tressa invited me to visit her and see her farm, but she also gave me a handful of other candidates for horse boarding in the area. Who does that? I was so impressed with Tressa's ethic and generosity that I went straight to Traditions Farm to meet her.
I was so impressed by the environment and ambience at Traditions Farm that when I considered Tressa's policy of boarding horses only for her students, I elected to become her student because I wanted my horse to be in her care. And, I realized that she would be an instructor who be invested in the well-being of my horse *and* one with whom I could communicate.
It was immediately apparent that her barn help/apprentices were well-organized and well-supported by Tressa, and it was clear that the routines flow smoothly and regularly. Tressa and her help are very observant and all eyes are always on every horse on the farm. Tressa wants to empower her apprentices and employees. There is a feeling of real stability at Traditions that is sadly missing from most other barns. My horse had his spacious "stallion paddock" and I never worried that there would be any carelessness that might result in any mishaps.
And only when we talked about training and instruction did she reveal that she had been under the instruction of Melissa Simms (head rider at the institute of Egon von Neindorff for many years. In my lessons with Tressa she was always extremely knowledgeable and supportive. She even arranged for Melissa to give some lessons at Traditions, which was a remarkable experience. From those two lessons with Melissa I understood a little about what a rich background in equitation and dressage Tressa has aggregated.
I recommend studying with Tressa highly and your horse will bloom.
Five stars out of five stars rating! *****
I met Tressa Boulden when I was planning to move to Sebastopol with my Andalusian stallion. Tressa invited me to visit her and see her farm, but she also gave me a handful of other candidates for horse boarding in the area. Who does that? I was so impressed with Tressa's ethic and generosity that I went straight to Traditions Farm to meet her.
I was so impressed by the environment and ambience at Traditions Farm that when I considered Tressa's policy of boarding horses only for her students, I elected to become her student because I wanted my horse to be in her care. And, I realized that she would be an instructor who be invested in the well-being of my horse *and* one with whom I could communicate.
It was immediately apparent that her barn help/apprentices were well-organized and well-supported by Tressa, and it was clear that the routines flow smoothly and regularly. Tressa and her help are very observant and all eyes are always on every horse on the farm. Tressa wants to empower her apprentices and employees. There is a feeling of real stability at Traditions that is sadly missing from most other barns. My horse had his spacious "stallion paddock" and I never worried that there would be any carelessness that might result in any mishaps.
And only when we talked about training and instruction did she reveal that she had been under the instruction of Melissa Simms (head rider at the institute of Egon von Neindorff for many years. In my lessons with Tressa she was always extremely knowledgeable and supportive. She even arranged for Melissa to give some lessons at Traditions, which was a remarkable experience. From those two lessons with Melissa I understood a little about what a rich background in equitation and dressage Tressa has aggregated.
I recommend studying with Tressa highly and your horse will bloom.