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There are only two USDF certified instructors in dressage in Minnesota and Wisconsin, and one of them lives here. Julie Penshorn of Sunborn Stables Inc., south of Chisago City, was recently approved for certification by the United States Dressage Federation after months of study and lesson sessions.

Penshorn said she expects some people might look into taking dressage lessons eyeing to one day become Olympic competitors, but many others enjoy practicing weekly or so just to have fun. "Be intrigued and challenged and share camaraderie with fellow riders," she said.

Dressage is an ancient sport that began as a method of training cavalry horses to perform in battle. Dressage is French for training, but it encompasses so much more, Penshorn added. "It's a fitness activity, an outlet for creativity, a martial art, a lifelong learning opportunity and a chance to communicate with an exciting and intuitive animal, the horse."

Penshorn said she usually recommends starting with lessons on stable horses. That way a rider can develop knowledge about dressage and what they like in a horse. Penshorn can lend advice if you do decide to purchase a horse for dressage, or any other equestrian activity for that matter. Dressage is suited to many breeds of horse and it's possible your horse could be ideal for dressage lessons, check with Penshorn for details.

Penshorn tested for her certification at Averett University in North Carolina. The USDF program there is recognized internationally. To pass one must have students showing, and pass with high scores in dressage horse shows. You must have four years teaching. Penshorn's been instructing for 30 years and has trained and or taught in 10 states.

Sunborn Stables is located between Scandia and Chisago City and can be reached at 257-9825.

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