In the captivating world of horsemanship, one man's teachings stand out, leaving an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to encounter his wisdom. At the heart of Tom Dorrance's profound approach lies the art of building an extraordinary connection with the horse. For John Saint Ryan, this revelation has been nothing short of transformative. Tom's philosophy was rooted in understanding and empathy, redefining the very essence of true horsemanship. Central to his belief was the extraordinary notion of "feeling" what the horse feels, immersing oneself in its world, and tenderly responding to its needs. This extraordinary concept not only revolutionised training techniques but sparked a profound appreciation for the horse as a sentient and emotional being. As John shares his journey, we embark on a voyage into a world where intuition and connection shape the relationship between human and horse.

‍

Central to Tom's teachings was the concept of "feel." In his own words, it was about "feeling what the horse is feeling." Understanding the horse's emotions, fears, and responses was crucial for effective communication. Remembering Tom's emphasis on rewarding the smallest try, and building on each positive interaction.

‍

Tom's philosophy extended beyond training techniques. It was about establishing a profound partnership with the horse, built on trust and respect. John recalls that Tom always emphasised the importance of patience, consistency, and understanding the horse's perspective. A horse isn't a machine; it's a sentient being capable of emotions and responses, and treating it as such was vital.

‍

John's journey with horses took him to various disciplines, including Doma Vaquera in Spain. However, he chose to disassociate from the bullfighting aspect, focusing instead on the art and movements. Tom's teachings transcended disciplines, guiding John to develop a deep understanding of equitation science, not just as a technical pursuit but as a means of building a partnership with the horse.

‍

One remarkable aspect of Tom's teaching was his ability to communicate complex ideas in simple language.  Quoting Y.B Yates “Think like a wise man but communicate in the language of the people.” 

He didn't overwhelm his students with scientific jargon but rather presented his insights in a way that resonated with everyone, creating an accessible and transformative learning experience.

‍

The legacy of Tom Dorrance continues to influence generations of horse enthusiasts, trainers, and riders worldwide. His profound connection with horses, based on understanding, feel, and empathy, remains a cornerstone of modern horsemanship. John Saint Ryan's journey with Tom exemplifies the enduring impact of this legendary figure, emphasising the power of patience, communication, and trust in developing a genuine partnership with these magnificent animals. As we continue to explore the world of equestrianism, may we all embrace the lessons from the Horse Whisperer, ensuring that the horse's welfare and well-being remain at the heart of our journey.

‍