Prior to joining the Western Horseman staff, Fran Devereux Smith, an associate editor with the magazine, spent a number of years training horses and giving riding instruction. In writing First Horse, she relied on her teaching experience with riders of all ages and her work as a 4-H horse project leader. Fran has a broad-based background in the equine industry. A lifelong horsewoman, she grew up trail riding and showing horses regionally -- primarily in reining, western pleasure, horsemanship, and barrel racing, with some experience in halter and showmanship. A high school rodeo competitor, Fran also was a member of her intercollegiate rodeo team, winning a regional barrel racing championship and qualifying for the College National Finals Rodeo in that event and goat tying. Along the way, she was named Miss Rodeo Arkansas and won a girls rodeo association all-around title that same year. Since then, Fran has earned a state Quarter Horse association reining championship, showed in hunt-seat classes, and team penned. She has ridden trails in 20 states, worked some cattle along the way, driven a wagon team from time to time, and served as an officer or board member for several equine organizations. Book jacket.

Expert advice on breeds, all aspects of horse care, and step-by-step riding techniques, fully updated.

A new, fully updated edition of the complete guide to horse riding. Learn all there is to know about horse riding, from horse care and show jumping to mastering dressage, with this comprehensive and fully updated guide. Suitable for both novice and advanced riders, and for equestrian fans of all ages, this book will guide you through every stage of the riding process from the first time in the saddle to advanced riding skills. Featuring all of the latest techniques and equipment, this revised and updated edition covers everything you need to know about basic horse training, dressage training, and mental and physical preparation-for both horse and rider-as well as how to find and develop your ultimate horse. Presented in spectacular visual detail, it is the ultimate guide to perfecting your equestrian skills. Featuring tips from internationally renowned horse trainer William Micklem, The Complete Horse Riding Manual is a truly thoroughbred guide that is a must-have for any horse lover.