So now the annual phenomenon that is the Golegã horse fair is over and it is with a satisfied tiredness that we now look forward to beginning the preparations for Christmas. Here’s what has been happening with us over the past few weeks…
AT GOLEGÃ
The week of the Golegã fair was a busy time for all of us here at Quinta do Brejo – Don Tomas and Donna Antonia Alercão and myself. We had very dramatic weather including heavy rain, thunder and lightning and of course some sun in between. But thankfully we were lucky to experience the horse fair under calm skies.
It’s almost impossible to describe the atmosphere of Golegã – the confusion of horses and riders criss-crossing with pedestrians; tourists and locals pouring through streets and out of restaurants and bars; the smells of nuts roasting and regional delicacies being cooked from street stalls. All life is there, from smartly turned out dressage riders performing their perfect flying changes, to the comical sight of Shetland ponies pulling small wagons filled with big burly men. We took a lovely group of guests to visit the fair, all of whom had also decided to stay for some riding lessons with us. It’s a wonderful way to get a taste of everything the Lusitano horse and Portuguese horse culture has to offer.
CLINICS IN SWEDEN…
I was also recently teaching a series of clinics in my native Sweden, where I was really pleased to see my students making some great steps forward. Of course progress always develops most strongly from the foundation that understanding and a thoughtful approach brings. To want to gain this understanding requires a certain patience and calmness from the rider. And as a teacher it is always very encouraging and empowering to see students who really want to learn with an open and inquisitive mind. So it was with real pleasure that we started to work with flying changes, half-steps, piaffe and passage. I am really looking forward to seeing them all again in the new year.
IN THE MEDIA…
This month I am featured in the Swedish magazine Hästfocus, which gives some training advice.
You can click here to take a look at the article via the publisher’s website.
GIFT VOUCHERS…
We now have gift vouchers available to buy at any value you wish (minimum €10), which can be exchanged for clinics near you, or for riding holidays here at Quinta do Brejo. We will happily provide a simple voucher, or please do contact us to discuss a suggested package for a clinic, riding lesson, 3 day or 7 day programme to give as a gift. Contact us at info@charlottewittbom.com to discuss your requirements or ask any questions.
With very best wishes, Charlotte.
*Photo of Charlotte above by Emma Noren.
Charlotte Wittbom 
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