Florida. Olympic equestrian champion presents two-day clinic at Raven Hill Farms

On Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 2 and 3, Raven Hill Farms, an equestrian facility in the Village of Florida owned by Deirdre and Thomas Hamling, had the unique opportunity to welcome five-time Olympic Dressage Champion Steffen Peters for a two-day clinic and symposium.

The well attended event drew fans from throughout New York as well as from several nearby states.

Peters was named U.S. Equestrian’s Equestrian of the Year in 2008, 2009, and 2011. He is a five-time Olympic dressage competitor and three-time USEF Horseman of the Year, He was also the senior-most member of the US Olympic Dressage Team and, at the age of 56, became the oldest American to win an Olympic medal since 1952.

Peters wowed the crowd of auditors and riders with six one-hour lessons for riders and their horses at every level. He offered his expertise, often mounting the horse himself to demonstrate technique.

Each afternoon ended with a session for question and answers and a champagne toast where riders and auditors had the opportunity to chat personally with Peters, view his silver Olympic Medal and take photos.

“Hosting Steffen at Raven Hill was the thrill of a lifetime,” said Deirdre Hamling. ”I have never met a more gracious, humble and authentic human being. It was an honor and a privilege to meet Steffen, his passion and love of the horse and the art of dressage came through his very essence. He is not only an exquisite horseman, always considering the horse an equal partner, but a true master. He is simply a national treasure and we are tremendously grateful for this opportunity”

For additional information about programs offered at Raven Hill Farms Equestrian Center call 845-987- 6965 or visit https://ravenhillfarms.com/

- Roger Gavan