Lynn Chapman MRPCH, RA
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Lynn Chapman
I have been involved with horses since I was first placed on a colliery horse by my ostler grandfather. I had a happy pony filled childhood in South Wales riding Welsh mountain ponies that could do everything from jumping to gymkhana and remain sound and enthusiastic in all weathers! Some even earned me pocket money as trekking ponies taking brave holidaymakers over our local hills looking for a little adventure.
In 1984 I took a position at Sparsholt College, Hampshire teaching and developing small animal and horse courses into the college curriculum. Here I met a local trainer, Mr H.G. Willis. Harry was my first adult encounter with a true horseman; he understood how horses thought and how to inspire them to enjoy their training. He could repair and restore injured horses and improve damaged ones. He had no ego, little money, made time for everyone and I was privileged to have been one amongst so many young people he taught. Together Harry and I introduced my horse course students to working with young horses and horses in training as well as to riding “work” for the more capable ones! It was quite a course.
In 1984 I took a position at Sparsholt College, Hampshire teaching and developing small animal and horse courses into the college curriculum. Here I met a local trainer, Mr H.G. Willis. Harry was my first adult encounter with a true horseman; he understood how horses thought and how to inspire them to enjoy their training. He could repair and restore injured horses and improve damaged ones. He had no ego, little money, made time for everyone and I was privileged to have been one amongst so many young people he taught. Together Harry and I introduced my horse course students to working with young horses and horses in training as well as to riding “work” for the more capable ones! It was quite a course.
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In 1991 I left Sparsholt to spend time raising my two lovely children. I rode for pleasure and took in horses for convalescent care.
In 2000, everything changed, Harry Willis passed away suddenly and retiring jump jockey Brendan Powell took on Harry's yard and placed his head girl with us. She nagged me to come and ride out and I gave in. I began on walking work just to help out and within two weeks was hooked again. I had the best time riding these beautiful fit equine athletes, made some great friends and found my advanced equine tutors, B J Zusjack (Jack) and Jem-a-dar. My riding evolved quickly, as did my ability to assess and settle young, fit, sensitive thoroughbreds. |
Helen on Jack, Ellen on Polo, Lynn on Sandy
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Lynn riding Jack
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Jem was my guide to Intelligent Horsemanship. he was so troubled I was at a loss to know where to begin and bought “Perfect Manners” by Kelly Marks. Fate took a hand and I found myself attending Kelly's foundation courses just weeks later. Needless to say I am now a much better listener and interpreter!
I did my stage one in September 2002, took my MRPC in 2003 and became an Recommended Trainer in 2004. I work with horses full-time, ride and handle horses daily both at home and out on yard visits. I love my work as each day brings new experiences and learning opportunities. |
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In 2012 I became a qualified HAAT instructor and am now offering training in Horse Agility. This fun activity aims to promote great horse handling and training using challenging obstacles and equipment. For more information about this fun sport do please email me: [email protected]
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Lynn taking Ruby through the aglity course
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