Anyone had lessons with David Austin?

milliepops

milliepops

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My yard owner is looking to organise some clinics with David Austin and I'm trying to decide whether to join in :p

It's fair to say that SJ has always been my weakest discipline and as we've been turning into dressage divas this year I think I'm worse than ever now! My mare is very forgiving and sorts herself out if I fluff it but I just get 'the fear' sometimes and forget how to ride :o

Anyway, any feedback would be great. On the one hand it would be nice to have a bit of direction in this area and it would also give us a bit of variety during the winter. On the other hand, some SJ trainers I've had before just haven't understood how anyone can be a wimp with showjumps, so I'd rather continue to go it alone if that is likely to be a problem!
 
Yes, he is fab. Sj is my weakest area by far, my regular trainer recommend David. I was sceptical as I didn't want someone only interested in how high we could jump. I needn't have worried, he's got a great way about him, takes time to understand you and your horse. He's amazingly perceptive, I was so surprised on the things he picked up on straight away. I now go to him regularly together with my usual trainer. Would definitely recommend.
 
That's really encouraging, thanks. I was trying to work out whether limited funds would be better spent with my dressage trainer but I think it will do us good to do something different now and then. Happy to part with the money if it's good training ;)
 
I was very reluctant to go anywhere other than my regular trainer, and was extremely nervous the first time I went. But definitely money well spent, he just picked up on a few things around me and the way I ride which made a big difference. He has a nice way of teaching which suits me well. He comes to a yard nearby once a month and I ser the same people going, which must be a good sign! Good luck :)
 
He is very perceptive and told me all jumping problems from watching my canter without seeing me jump a fence in my first lesson! Be warned though he doesn't beat around the bush and won't sugar coat things for you but he is hugely encouraging when you do well! Enjoy!
 
Excellent, thanks everyone. I don't need it sugar coating and prefer trainers who are direct. Just don't need to be made to feel like a prat :p I can do that all by myself!
 
I did years ago, took my horse to his yard in Alvechurch.

I am a nervous rider and the horse was an 18hh heavywieght show hunter that I wanted to get jumping so I could hunt him. Already very well schooled on the flat (medium).

David went right back to basics with trot poles/cross poles to build my confidence and did not make me feel inadequate in anyway.

The horse was about 8 and had never jumped, thought it was great fun and it soon became obvious I could not stay on board when he jumped x poles like they were 4' oxers so I called it a day before my borderline confidence crash landed.

I enjoyed what bit I did and would recommend Mr Austin to anyone.
 
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