HOT PROFILE

Introducing...
STEVE HOUSTON

Steve Houston has started to make quite a name for himself over recent years as a very competent and professional horseman, with his highly sought after horse breaking-in business expanding more recently into holding nationwide clinics to help share his knowledge with horses and riders from all disciplines.
Steve is also bringing 4 time Olympian "Robin Hahn" to New Zealand in October for a series of eventing clinics.

We decided it was time to find out more about Steve and his horsemanship philosophies!

Where you interested in horses right from the start?
We always had ponies as kids but never really got interested in horses until my late teens, where they were used every day on the station I was working .

How did you get involved with starting horses under saddle as a profession?
While I had been shown how to break in horses, I didn't necessarily agree with the way it was done and was interested to find an easier way on the horse. I found this whilst travelling through North america.

Are there any people that have greatly influenced your way of working with horses?
Yes, the first being Jim Briggs who is a horseman out of Washington state who I first worked with while in America. Then there is Sid Cook from Alberta whom I learnt that not all cowboys are cowboys. And in the later years Robin Hahn who has taught me how English and Western riding is not alot different apart from their titles. And of course there is Ray Hunt and Buck Branaham whose clinics were invaluable along with all the other clinicians.

Photo by Nicholson Photography

What are some of the main principals you teach?
Having your horse respect you so that discipline is not necessarily an issue. With this comes safety which is paramount. Then there is the individual control of each foot. Done softly can place the horse where you need him. This I believe to be the basis for everything you will ever want to do with your horse.

You hold popular clinics all around New Zealand and overseas. What sort of problems do you commonly come across and is there any way to work through these issues?
One of the most common problems is disrespectful horses. These problems can easily be avoided by confident leadership. There are people that are trying to move their horses by their faces rather than their feet. Most problems we have with our horses are created by us, so the amount of workshops and clinics that are available now provide a good source of skilled knowledge.

If I ride in the dressage or showjumping type disciplines, how can this sort of work help me?
I believe all disciplines of riding to be fundamentally the same. The horse must move forward from the leg and submit to a soft hand. With these basics in place it is easier for the horse and rider to get along.

Photos by Nicholson Photography

If people want to know more, how can they contact you?
People can give me a call or visit my new website for more information.

Contact: Steve Houston
Post: Ruapuna, RD 5, Ashburton 7775, New Zealand.
Phone: 03 303 6356
Mobile: 0274 584 968
Email: Info@SteveHouston.co.nz
Website: www.SteveHouston.co.nz

Thanks Steve!

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