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March 2012 IN THIS ISSUE Welcome to the online digital edition of the USDF Connection magazine. The online digital edition will not replace your print copy unless you tell us you only want to view it online. If you wish to discontinue your print copy reply here USDFMemberInfo@usdf.org. E-mail connection@usdf.org with your comments.Watch for our web icon in the magazine. When you see this icon in the magazine, click on it to see exclusive bonus content. Click here to enter full magazine or click on individual links below.

HAPPY LANDINGS Get the moisture in your arena footing right, and say goodbye to the clumpy, dusty, frozen and soggy messes you've gotten yourself into By Lisa Munniksma If you think perfecting that fifteen-meter canter circle is difficult, then you might not want to tackle the subject of how to improve your Dust Bowl-like (or sodden, or frozen) arena footing. THE CARROT OR THE STICK? Dressage instructors: Do your students learn better with challenge or reward? Also, why letting students fail may be the best prep for success. By Kelly Sanchez If I’m not crying on the way to work after a lesson, I really don’t feel as if I’ve gotten my money’s worth.” Karina Lyons smiles as she says this, yet it’s clear her comment isn’t entirely tongue-in-cheek. The Los Angeles-based adult amateur and USDF bronze medalist is unstinting in her self-discipline, getting up at 5:00 on most mornings to ride, and then it’s back to the barn after work. A few years ago, she made time in her schedule to go through the USDF “L” Education Program. “I put a lot of time and effort into this,” Lyons says of her sport. “I’m not going to the Olympics, but at the same time I want to learn as much as I can.” That’s why she appreciates dressage instructors who can match her dedication—even if it makes for a grueling lesson. INSIDE USDF Who's Teaching Your Teacher By Beth Jenkins RINGSIDE The Rising Tide By Jennifer O. Bryant THE JUDGE'S BOX Understanding Freestyle Scoring By Janet "Dolly" Harmon SPORT-HORSE CONNECTION From Field to FEI: The Young-Horse Years By Scott Hassler with Emily Covington CLINIC In Search of Balance By Jennifer O. Bryant ALL-BREEDS CONNECTION Breed of the Month: Canadian Horse/Cheval Canadien THE TAIL END Buster and Me By Sandy Issler Heads Up Sponsor Spotlight Shop @ X USDF Connection Submission Guidelines USDF Office Contact Directory Advertising Index