Learn to ride and train your horse in a correct a harmonious way with
Rachel Stickland Dressage
stickland.dressage
RSD - Rachel Stickland Dressage
A Bit About Me
British and American, raised in France, and having ridden Internationally at Grand Prix level for the USA, I am a BPJEPS qualified French riding instructor specialising in Dressage. I started my career with two years training with Dutch Olympians Van Baalen, then teaching riding at all levels 2013-18, and in 2018-19 a year training and competing in North America and Canada. I have had the opportunity to work with and learn from experienced riders and trainers from around the world. I am now established as a professional rider and trainer in the Pays de Gex since 2019. Available to work with riders here in the Pays de Gex and surrounding area, teaching in French and in English.
My Experience
A brief history
I started riding at age 7 and never looked back. I tried my hand at almost every discipline in the book, competing nationally in France in carriage driving, show jumping, and eventing before leaning towards dressage. Since age 14 I have worked my way up the dressage levels. Since age 18 I have worked and trained in numerous professional stables in countries across the world in multiple functions, notably groom, rider, and trainer, which has given me considerable experience in the industry. In 2012 I acquired my current horse, 'Errolympic C-two' (stable name 'Zorba'). Together we competed first at Prix St George level and gradually worked our way up the levels to Grand Prix where we competed 2019-2022. Today Zorba has retired from competition and is enjoying a lighter work schedule and plenty of hacking out.
Teaching and Coaching
In 2013 I obtained my BPJEPS French teaching qualification and spent the next 5 years perfecting my teaching skills with riders of all levels and ages at a major French riding centre in the Auvergne Rhone-Alpes. Gradually I began to specialize in dressage teaching and coaching on competitions, bringing many young riders up though the levels. Now, I work daily with riders of all levels and aspirations, helping them to build a solid foundation in their flat work and dressage. I also accompany and coach my riders at local and national dressage competitions throughout France.
Teaching and ethos
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I cater to riders of all ages, experience levels, and aspirations. Whether you are interested in improving your flatwork to help you in another discipline, want to work on your technique at home, or want to move up the levels in dressage competition.​
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I am passionate about instilling in my riders a strong foundation of correct riding and a desire to work in a positive and harmonious way with their horses. I believe in taking the time to master 'the basics' and to learn to ride your horse in a correct connection. And, above all, to work in harmony with these wonderful animals.
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I specialize in both private and semi-private (2 riders) lessons, either 30 mins or 1 hour, and am mobile so no need to transport your horse, I am available to come to you. I operate mainly in the Pays de Gex, and surrounding area, but can travel further for clinics.
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I am also available and happy to accompany and coach you on competitions. I already attend most regional competitions and usually compete myself nationally and internationally around Europe.
My partners
Global Equestrian Technology
The latest Machine Learning and Artificial intelligence working together to revolutionize the information available to all Equestrian stakeholders
Global Dressage Analytics
GDA is a web service that brings together detailed dressage result information with state of the art analytics to give you new insights into the performance of riders, horses and judges.
Eki'Nutri
A popular, reliable, and quality provider of equine nutrition, supplements and care products in the Pays de Gex.
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Derby riding boots
"Our leather boots are your second skin: handmade and top quality. Derby Riding Boots has more than 50 years of experience and craftsmanship of riding boots. We know like no other how important it is that your riding boots fit comfortably and walk comfortably".
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Derby has been my riding boot of choice for over 10 years. I cannot recommend them highly enough! If you are based in the Pays de Gex, I can help you to get in touch with Derby and get measured for your own pair.
C-two Breeding and dressage stable
"For us, only the best dressage stallions are good enough".
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C-two is a Belgian breeding facility specialising in the production of top quality dressage horses, including my own 'Errolympic C-two'. There is no horse breeder I trust more! If you are looking for your future star, please don't hesitate to contact me.
"No hour of life is wasted that is spent in the saddle"