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I have gone to several of Wendy's clinics
as a spectator and participant and keep coming back for more. As a
Certified trainer, Wendy makes her clinics fun to attend, packed with
information and her delivery is pure John Lyon's method...not a spinoff.
I can even get my horse to perform the moves when I practice at home!!!
Ann C

I have a 19 year old gelding who
was basically a "kids" horse until I began to ask more of him, a few years
ago. That's when I discovered that many things that made him
uncomfortable and difficult to ride. I learned about Wendy Downer
and the training she offered and have gone back to her many times as my
horse and I progressed. What I like most about Wendy is she can see
past what you think are roadblocks, the things you and/or your horse can't
do and guide you to greater achievements than you thought were possible.
She believes in me and my horse, more than I do sometimes. Like all
good teachers and great coaches, Wendy can point out the little things you
are doing that are influencing your horse's behavior, so in the end, you
and your horse perform better, calmer, more confidently and enjoyably than
before. It doesn't matter if you or your horse are old or young, you
want a show horse or a trail horse, you'll both do better after spending
time with Wendy Downer. Marlane

In 2010, I became the proud owner
of a 4 year old unbroke filly. As a third generation member of a
thoroughbred racing family, I began my adventure of breaking her in. But I
soon found many holes in my approach. I needed help to rebuild the
foundation in my training for a well rounded, consistent horse which even
my 8 year old daughter could ride. I did not need to look any
further than Wendy. I would like to take this opportunity to thank
Wendy for being a remarkable trainer and horseman and accepting Pegasus
into her training program. Wendy's consistent, patient and straight
forward training approach lays a strong foundation in any horse, which you
can build upon and excel in any equestrian field. As a coach, Wendy
has a unique ability to transfer a sense of calm and confidence into her
students which we seem to carry into our daily lives. It is with
pleasure that I recommend Wendy Downer as a trainer and coach for any of
your equestrian needs. Tessa

Anyone who owns a horse can
benefit from the Lyons training methods, no matter what their discipline.
Using the Lyons methods and Wendy's support, I was able to train one of
our young horses from the ground to riding in Algonquin Park. The
feeling of satisfaction I got from doing this on my own cannot be
described. Not only is Wendy highly skilled in the Lyons methods,
she has a connection with horses that very few people can claim. The
combination provides a unique learning experience for anyone attending her
clinics. The best person to train your horse truly is you!
Carol S.

Wendy's clinic really helped me to
overcome my fear and got me to "focus" on the tasks at hand. I can't
wait for my next clinic! I would highly recommend Wendy to anyone
who is interested in developing their skills and learning important new
ones! Five Star Clinic! Thanks, Debbie V.

Many thanks, Wendy. I really enjoyed
myself. Great information about controlling the different parts of the
horse. Lots to practice. I hope to be able to ride with you
again. Jan J.

Wendy was wonderful. I am very
green and on a green horse. I came away from the clinic with greater
control and knowledge about myself and my horse. It was money well
spent. I hope Wendy will be back. I would take another clinic
in a heartbeat. Thank you Wendy! Deb S.

Wendy - Thanks so much. We all learned alot
in a very enjoyable clinic. You are a great teacher and we hope to
have you back! Michele A


I want to update you on Shirley's
accomplishments with her horse, Percy. She has completed several
rides in Algonquin Park, went on a trail riding adventure to Tennessee and
Kentucky, rode on the shores of Georgian Bay and loped along the beach.
And, to take even another item off her "bucket list", Shirley and Percy
completed their first solo trail ride! Shirley is an inspiration and
proof that you can achieve your goals when you persevere!
Congratualtions!
Since starting my first riding lesson as a
50th birthday gift, there have been several major events that shaped my
relationship with horses.
One was going to hear John Lyons , who demonstrated that training a horse
didn't involve anything mysterious or having to be a "horse whisperer".
A horse learns what you teach it, wanted or unwanted, by using a reward
system. He made it sound possible to improve your horse by following
his conditioned response method, which gave me hope and an excitement to
try it.
Another was coming to Wendy Downer's facility. She has always
believed in the Lyons method and is now a certified John and Josh Lyons
trainer. She has taught me so much about horses especially how to be
fair and consistent when working with them. My education is
obviously ongoing with such an experienced expert.
Then I fell in love with a two year old colt that was bred on her
property. At 60, I took Percy through the Lyons groundwork, bridling
and saddling, and finally riding. I never imagined that at my age I
would be the first to ride a horse that I had trained. It was only
possible with the support and knowledge of Wendy. Now I look forward
to helping him be a better performance partner.
Dreams do come true!
Shirley Bodnarchuk
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