Hi & Thank You |
I would just like to say a quick thank you to everyone for your very kind comments. It means alot to us to know that you benfit from the lessons and have great enjoyment and success with the horses & ponies that you get from us. If you would like to add a comment to this page please feel free to email me through the contact page of the website. I look forward to hearing from you.
Aileen |
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Fiona Thompson - Millstone Equestrian |
| I first went to Aileen in April 2009 for two weeks of training with my 3 horses, since then I have never looked back all my horses and myself greatly benefited for Aileen's experience and straightforward teaching, even surviving the 7am lunge lessons.. One of my horses I took was my 4 year old mare who only had jumped over a cross pole after two weeks we where confidently jumping round a track at Ingliston EC. Since then I have had numerous trips back, mainly concentrating on producing my now 5 year old mare, Trevor has been a fantastic help with this and I cant recommend highly enough, Both Aileen & Trevor's knowledge, experience & calm approach to training both horse & rider is second to none. Everyone at Byrahill Stables is friendly and welcoming and I'm always sad to go home, it truly has become a second home, so thanks everyone for putting up with me, my horses and all your help & support. |
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Sarah Cove, Owner of Classics Van Het Vitserol (Big Jack!) |
Dear Trevor and Aileen
Just thought I would drop you a note to say a HUGE thank you for everything you have and are doing for both me and Jack.
As you know, having previously had a bad experience at another yard I was very wary when I bought him to you. The only way I can sum up the experience is ‘’going from night to day’’ The way he is being looked after is phenomenal. Jack is unrecognisable; he is looking a million dollars and the improvement in the way he rides has been amazing. In fact at a recent show, a friend, who has known him for as long as I have, was adamant that I was looking at the wrong horse!
You have even managed to deal with the neurotic owner! Thank you for being so honest, welcoming and open. It has made the world of difference.
I am not sure what the future may hold, but one thing I am certain of is
That thanks to the care and attention you have and are giving Jack, I have a very happy, fit and contented horse, who has discovered again that life can be fun
You have a lot to be proud of
Take care
Sarah |
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Irene & Jordan Young, Marchbank, Fenwick |
hi Aileen, well what can we say ? 2009 was a huge year for Jordan and she will have these memories forever. Your teaching skills are brilliant and best of all the kids " click " with you instantly. Heres to success in 2010 for all of us !
Irene and Jordan Young
Fenwick. |
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Vicki & Isla, owners of Velvet who came over from Arran for a couple of weeks schooling and jump training. |
Hi Aileen,
Just to thank you and Trevor again for your help.
Isla took Velvet to Winter points on Sunday, she got a 4th rosette in the mini challenge which was progress even though it wasn't as busy as usual. She also did the most enormous jump over some small cross poles, made everyone gasp but Isla managed to stay with her. Velvet was an angel on the ferry home, she took it all in her stride even when the back ramp went up (very noisy).
I have attached some pictures to prove she is not a woolly mammoth all year round....lol
Thanks again
See you in April
Vicki |
Arran Riding Club |
Arran Riding Club were looking for someone to come over to the Island to do a weekends teaching with a variety of age groups. We were given Aileen's name and contacted her to see if she would be up for coming over......and she was! From the start Aileen was a delight to work with and every pupil who had a lesson with her came away learning a great deal and having a huge amount of FUN! So many people commented on what a lovely girl she is and how she gave each individual rider the confidence to push themselves more than they normally would. The first question at our next committee meeting was - "When can Aileen come back" We have now booked Aileen to come over for a weekend at the end of April 2010 and a weekend towards the end of the year.......and will continue to ask her to come over again and again!
Janis Murchie
Chairperson, Arran Riding Club |
Allison Oakes & Dorothy Findlay bought Cregan Red in November 09 |
Hi, just thought I'd let you know that Red settling in fine with new field mates! He's been a little star, mum getting on great with him!:-)
Hi, just a wee update on Red! He's so good, mum's hacking out and riding in school quite happily and I think he's enjoying it and all the treats!! Thanks again for a fab horse! Allison x
(24th May 2010) |
Lorna and Alistair Sim, Ayrshire Scotland
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Hi Aileen and Trevor,
Alistair and I would like to say thanks to both of you for everything you have done for Alistair and Blair. You have worked wonders on transforming Alistair's abilities in such a short space of time, from being so green to now being able to jump a course. Also the service you provide for schooling horses is second to none and the care Blair received on both his stays with you far exceeded even the care he has at home ( and I thought I spoiled him!) so much so that we hardly recognised him when we came to pick him up for his show, so well turned out he was! We really can't recommend you highly enough and wish you both well for the future.
See you at lessons! |
Jennifer Rentoul, Chairperson Kilmacolm & Kilallan Riding Club & Area 1 Riding Clubs |
Kilmacolm and Kilallan Riding Club have been most fortunate to have had Aileen teaching for the last four years…..and hope this continues for some considerable time! Her lessons are extremely popular, each session lasting many hours. Riders at every level get the benefit of her experience, so preparation for the ‘big event’ is excellent and she builds the confidence of those less experienced. Apart form her vast technical know how, her lessons are tremendous fun! Aileen does not need an entire set of jumps to build a testing and exciting exercise. Many of our members come just to enjoy jumping….and usually end up amazed at what they have achieved! Aileen has the knack of being able to challenge a pupil without the pupil realising!
Aileen has been teaching the monthly BSJA sessions for Area 1 Riding Clubs, during the winter months. These sessions are over a well built BSJA track and are so popular, we have to give her a break for supper! It is a tremendous opportunity to practice round a good track, perhaps pushing the boundaries , or giving a young horse confidence for the future.
Scotland is indeed fortunate to have such a talented instructor.
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Tina Wilson, Dalry, Ayrshire |
Hi Aileen
Saw your request on the website for info about horses you've sold so thought I'd drop you an update about Horace.
I still own him and he finally came to live at home about two and a half years ago. He spent the first 18 months on his own quite happily but was joined just over a year ago by another Trakehner (Lithuanian this time) who you've already met with Ralph at Titwood. I've registered with the british Trakehners society - his posh name is Isonomy.
We haven't done much competing - I decided it wasn't really my thing but we've been all over the place for lessons including a few days together at Yorkshire Riding Centre where he was much admired and very well behaved taking it all in his stride.
I'll try and get a good photo of him in the next few weeks and send it over. |
Louise & Olivetti |
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Louise Nelson, Stewarton, Ayrshire |
My business relationship started with Aileen Craig 6 years ago, when we moved to Stewarton.
Coaching
I had my first lesson from Aileen in a neighbours’ outdoor school, I can still remember how nervous I was, after only having 1 BSJA coach previously. Aileen took control of my show jumping career, when we had that first lesson I was terrified to jump 95cm and now I can happily jump 1.30m. I wouldn’t say I was a confident rider, but I have a huge amount of confidence in what Aileen believes I can do. Aileen’s lessons are always tough, different and exceptional not only in the motivation you feel afterwards, but the sense of achievement you feel. Aileen has a fantastic way in explaining what she wants you to achieve, and always gives you an explanation on what the benefits of the exercise are. I can honestly say in all the years I have been having lessons from Aileen I have never completed the same exercise twice. Aileen’s lessons are interactive and catered to the individual horse and rider, which is great as we aren’t all the same!! Not only does she give you the support at home, she is available at the shows too. Whilst moving up the height classes Aileen is always there for warm-up, offering support and that much needed smiling face before you enter the arena. Last bit of advice is always ‘enjoy it’, she is right, most expensive minute these days! I really believe that Aileen’s course walks are invaluable. She gives you the correct advise on striding for you and your horse, reminding you of all the little things that nerves make you forget. I believe the biggest testament to Aileen’s teaching for me, was; whilst competing at champions, Aileen told me to enter class 20, which I did, telling me it was a 1.20m, my first infront of more than just Aileen. I walked the course and warmed up, unfortunately Aileen got caught in traffic. As I had been training over bigger than 1.20m at home I felt confident enough to go in and just do it. Having 1 down in the first round I felt great, what I didn’t realise was that it had actually been a 1.25m and a warm up to the newcomers second round! What Aileen installs in confidence is invaluable!
Purchasing Horses
When I first arrived at Aileen, she quickly realised one of the horses I had at the time was totally unsuitable for me, although she suggested trading him in, she never forced a decision. Through Aileen’s vast contacts both home and abroad, she managed to source the perfect horse for myself. We visited a few yards, abroad and in the UK. Aileen was always up front with me as what she thought was suitable, never forcing one way or another. The first horse I bought through Aileen, I had a picture of a 16.1hh-16.2hh bay mare. What I came home with was a 16.3hh chestnut Gelding, the best purchase I have ever made. Which if it hadn’t been for Aileen I would never have sat on him. The yards we did visit were extremely professional, the whole process is smoothly run, as Aileen is very aware of what you are looking for and has ensured there may be something suitable in advance. Aileen always sticks to or below the budget you give her, producing some quality horses. I have now purchased many horses through Aileen, she is a trusted supplier of good, quality, reasonably priced horses.
Transporting
The purchases I have made are always easy, Aileen and her father organise everything from the taking down of the horse/ horses I am trading in to giving me an exact time when the new horse will arrive. The horses always arrive relaxed and in excellent condition!
Latterly, I have moved into the breeding side of the business, and continue to use the transport side of Aileen’s business to move the mares and their foals to and from the vets. I always know they will arrive in the condition they leave, if I only knew half of what Aileen’s father has forgotten! The prices for the transporting are always reasonable and consistent.
The services Aileen offers are second to none, always professional with a caring, understanding touch. The true testament to Aileen, is that I have a pile of youngsters standing in the yard and I know when they are ready, whose door I will be knocking on, to get them started.
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Angela McDonald, Edinburgh, April 2008 |
| Just letting you know my daughter is the proud owner of one of your horses Bright Venture,and can I say we could not have found a more perfect horse,he is so well mannered with a beautiful temprament) for her, she is 15 he is her 1st horse, and he will be absoulutely spoiled!! brand new everything and she has expensive taste!! she loves him to pieces so do we !He has settled in very well at the stables, thanks for selling us this lovely boy. Regards,Angela |
I had to steal this peice from Ayr Riding Club Website (with permission of course!!) - Hope it gives you guys as much of a laugh as me! |
The Trials and Tribulations of a Novice Novice Wannabe Showjumper
Or a look at the life of Arnie (fat Coloured) and Kirsten (just Fat!)
Hi there,
I’ve been asked to write a wee tale of the traumas and trials I have faced in my attempt to be a showjumper. Its worth mentioning that my overall aim in this showjumping lark is 65 cm so the Whitaker family can rest easy knowing that’s one less bit of competition they don’t have to worry about. Very few folk these days are willing to admit that they are scared (almost shitless) about jumping so I was
delighted to see that the club had organised a few novice novice lessons with Aileen Craig. The stipulation was that the lessons were for either young or inexperienced horses or nervous or novice riders. Lo and behold, it turned out I ticked ALL the boxes. I suppose that technically speaking I’m not a novice rider cos I’ve been doing this for the last 20 years (fast approaching 42). That must mean I’m just crap!! I certainly fitted the “nervous” bit. My little horse (and here lies the first problem – I am 5’9” and could kindly be described as “sturdy” – he is a full up 15 hands hhhmn – bought him as a foal and he just didn’t grow as big as I had hoped –still he’s only 4 so I’m sure he’ll grow another hand yet – ha ha) is very inexperienced, only 4 and a bit excitable.
The morning of the first lesson arrived. After bathing and primping both of us (I have a long standing policy – look like a diddy, ride like a diddy and they know you’re a
diddy! Look the part and they think you’re just having a bad day – this works as long as you keep changing venues!) and double dosing him with calmer, off we went to Braidfield for our lesson. He came out the trailer and stood like a wee lamb to get ready (Arnie looks like he should have a part time job on Blackpool Beach). I got on
and wandered round the yard, reasonably happily. We headed into the school with 3 other like minded folks AND I FELL APART! After 10 minutes of shouting at me to “use your outside rein” and me shouting “no”, Aileen eventually asked “why?” “I can’t let go of the neckstrap” was my response. To be fair, she didn’t laugh at me (at least not when I was watching!) and talked me through it. Remember that at this point I was only trying to walk round the arena (although that is one scary arena – banners are us!).
It’s probably worth mentioning that I suffer from an nfortunate, little known, but extremely common condition called Equine Tourettes. This means that I start cursing
like a trooper in direct relation to how scared I am. The air was blue. “Arnie, Arnie, ooh Arnie, ooh, oh shit, oh f***, oooh f****** h**”. By this time, the audience were
howling. I felt pretty much like howling myself mind you! Then we started trotting! Actually, I have to admit that Arnie actually enjoys jumping and when he realised that
was what we were there for he settled right down and got on with it. I do not enjoy jumping until Arnie is securely packed up in the trailer. Then I find I had a ball! This happens to me constantly and I blame this on the fact that I had an abrupt introduction to jumping many years ago. My first jump (yes I do mean my first ever) was over an old woman. I am willing to bet that no one else in Ayr Riding Club can say that. It’s a long story which involved her falling asleep on a bus at Parkhead, ending up in Clydebank and getting lost on the moors at the back of Faifley. I was
heading home at dusk on a November night and as we cantered up the hill I jumped over her as she lay upside down in a ditch. You should have seen me at Clydebank Police Station reporting that one. “Yes officer, I did jump over her, no, she’s sitting in my car and can someone get her out quick before she pees my seats”. I probably wouldn’t have minded so much if she had put her legs up and at least I could have
pretended she was a cross pole! (one day I too will be old and this will come back to haunt me!!). On the bright side, at least I saved her life!!
Anyway, back to novice novices. I have since persevered and despite several setbacks (on Sunday for example, I ended up in the middle of a dressage show at Sandyflats despite thinking I was there for 1’3” showjumping – incidentally they let me enter – I came last! Clearly 17 minutes isn’t enough time to get your horse out a trailer, tacked up, warmed up and test learnt. On a positive note, we only jumped out the arena once!) I think I might just be getting there. Arnie is still a wee rat bag warming up but when I get into a ring he actually goes quite nicely. He has met most of Rowallans fillers now and coped admirably with them. I just go really really early and warm up when there are only maybe one or two horses there (more than that and
hysterics kick in). We are now capable of completing the Wobbly Expert course all on our own (for those of you who don’t know this category, it is just slightly lower than your average wellies!). I have also discovered the joys of Rescue Remedy and both myself and Arnold get suitably doped before we leave home – then again on arrival (oh my God, there goes my chances of becoming an Olympic Eventor – failed the dope test). Hopefully I am not the only one who feels like this and roll on the lessons restarting.
You’ll know me, I’m the big bird on the wee coloured who’s probably swearing like a f****** trooper! Just think, next year I get to try cross country – aaaargh! |
North Face (Norris) sold go eventing |
It was really nice to get an email out of the blue from Abigail who now has Norris on loan. She has emailed me loads of pictures and told me a bit about what she is up to. It is always good to hear what my old horses are doing, so thanks very much Abigail and all the best for the rest of the season.
i got Norrie around Mid april time from a woman called joanne, we saw that he was up for loan and didnt have alot of money to spend on a horse so this was a perfect opportunity! We went to see him, and although a little big, i loved him! Jo came to see the yard and said i could have him! The following week Norrie arrived at our yard. I have been doing lots of BSJA on him and have just started eventing on him, we came 2nd in our most recent event! I am very interested in horses pasts so i asked Joanne where she got him from, and leading from that i discovered that Aileen had him at one point! It was really nice to know that he hadnt been trailed from pillar to post and that he has been a very well looked after horse who i cant wait to release his full potential!
Abigail Glover
Photo will be uploaded shortly! |
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