Linda Allen clinic this weekend

There are few horsemen who have a resume as impressive as Linda Allen. She has excelled as a competitor, trainer, course designer, clinician, technical delegate and judge.

Ann Thal's Snaffles, INC. is bringing the legendary horsewoman to Aiken, with the clinic being held at a private facility on Steifel Road. The clinic will be in a 100 foot by 200 foot covered ring, with state of the art footing. There will be off-site stabling at Highfields Event Center and Full Gallop Farm.

Allen is a Federation Equestre Internationale certified course designer, and has more than four decades of experience in the equine industry. A three time member of the U.S. Nation's Cup team, she also is a four-time winner of the United States Equestrian Federation Walter Cox trophy for Course Designer-of-the-Year.

A renowned and respected clinician, Allen is a professional in every sense, and offers great insight and perspective. The inaugural winner of the Chronicle of the Horse's Show Jumping Horseman-of-the-Year in 1989, Allen will place an emphasis on the basics during the clinic.

"I'm thrilled to have Linda come," said Thal. "I'm hoping to have people with international experience come to Aiken periodically to teach. I just think having the chance to have continuing education at this level is wonderful. We have amateurs, professionals and juniors riding. I'm really looking forward to her time in Aiken."

The clinic is a two day format, and participating groups won't exceed five riders. The sessions will last 1 hour and 45 minutes. The groups will be based on the riders and horses level of abilities, and will start at 2 feet and six inches, with the most advanced session being at three foot six inches and up. The cost for the clinic for both days is $400. The facility is located at 1170 Steifel Road, Aiken.

"I'm delighted with the support we've had," said Thal. "We have a full clinic. We're now working on the waiting list."

Aiken Saddlery, Boots, Bridles and Britches, Dietrich Equine Insurance and Performance Equine Vets (Dr. Sabrina Jacobs) will be sponsoring the breakfast and lunch both days.

"They're each sponsoring one meal," said Thal.

The auditing fees proceeds are being donated to Friends Of The Animal Shelter, said Thal. The suggested donation to audit the clinic is $25.

"I'd like for anyone who wants to listen, learn and watch, not to let finances get in the way from them coming," said Thal. "The auditing fees are by donation only. The suggested donation is $25. Some people will give more and others less. There's been a lot of interest in the clinic, and I anticipate it filling up quickly. We're hoping for a lot of support, so the educational opportunities will continue."

For more information, contact Ann Thal at (941) 730-1165 or you can e-mail at athal10961@aol.com.