Requiring the power and precision of gymnastics, as well as, the grace and subtly of ballet, dressage challenges mental preparation as well as physical prowess. Rarely, in the world of sport, are athletes called upon to summon the combination of strength and artistry demanded by dressage.

While once an activity of royalty, today dressage has developed into a discipline and competitive sport accessible to all horses and riders.

United States Dressage Federation.

Margot Barron's day begins at 8:30 AM with the first lesson or training session. Training is firmly based on the classical school. Not a day goes by when Margot does not refer to her mentor and friend Hermann Friendlander. "He taught me the basics," Margot candidly told me. Hermann never ceased to remind me to "get the horse over his back and to go willingly forward."

It has taken Margot over 10 years to gather and nurture a group of riders into a community that shares a sense of common good for humankind and equine. We are civil to each other and honestly care for each other. We are extremely supportive of each other's progress and efforts. In this regard, all instruction and training is accomplished in a positive manner.

Many of Wine Country Dressage's students have achieved mastery in the workplace. A few commute more than an hour's drive to ride and train with Margot. A well deserved recess to nourish themselves from the stress of their occupations and to feed their passion for horses and dressage.

In order to preserve the community's synergy, all perspective boarders and riders are interviewed extensively. This exercise allows Margot and other members to evaluate the probability for success and compatibility regarding a prospective new member.

"Our goal is to ensure that the entire group is on the same sheet of music, singing the same song; riding and training in harmony."

Wine Country Dressage's facilities are in a beautiful setting surrounded by vineyards and are in close accord with nature. Margot considers herself very fortunate to be in the fellowship of ethical people, honest horses and the glory of nature.

"We are most proud of our accomplishments with horses that did not require a large investment of money. Several actually have been rescued and are not necessarily bred for dressage competition." Margot's students score regularly in the high 60's and low 70's. Success on the rescued horses is always a little bit sweeter and particularly more precious to Wine Country Dressage Esprit de corps.

Margot feels very fortunate to lease stalls from a knowledgeable, experienced horsewoman; Lyn Larson. Lyn and Margot share comparable goals and work cooperatively to create a safe and well-grounded sanctuary for both horses and riders.

Heather McKoy, a long time student and now trainer, is also at Margot's side teaching and training. "Heather's support, integrity, and good friendship have been invaluable to me throughout the years."

The last training session of the day usually finishes around 5:00 PM. Margot takes time to laugh and chat, return phone calls, assist the vet, rally around any challenges and try to create a "stable" haven for both man and beast.

"At the end of the day, I am always grateful for my students and my wonderful husband; all of whom share my passion for horses, and an ethical, honorable way of life."

You may contact Margot Barron:

Margot Barron
Wine Country Dressage
18932 Viewcrest Drive
Sonoma, CA 95476
Telephone (707) 996-7831 or email WC_Dressage@aol.com

©1996-1999 Deborah Anderson HorseQuest.com All Rights Reserved.