KINGs oak sport horses
Training
Dedicated, Focused Training and Coaching for Horsemen and Women of all Levels
At Kings Oak Sport Horses we put our heart and soul into every horse we train. We believe that every horse and rider has what it takes to build that magical relationship all horsemen dream of. Our system of training is based on the German Federation method, as well as French Classical Dressage, which emphasizes lightness and non resistance. We believe rewarding horses for any effort that is asked for by the rider, even if it's not the effort WE want, is better than no reward at all. By telling the horse through repeated, positive experiences that he is headed in the right direction rather than beating him down because he wasn't perfect, we know that the learning curve is significantly shortened in the long run. This approach produces a horse who will give his best, every time, because he wants to, not because he is afraid not to!
"A horse who is asked will win for both of you, a horse who is told will lose despite your best intentions"
Our Trainer, Heath Curry, believes that by teaching students using his classical methods, the same way he was instructed, emphasizing lightness and correct use of the aids, combined with strong GNEF principles, he can produce horsemen that understand the special relationship between a horse and rider that can only be achieved through trust, hard work and correct riding. By teaching his students to be strong, compassionate and thinking riders, combining riding theory with practical and correct riding skills, Heath knows that his students will enjoy the successes and deep connection to their horses, that he himself values above all else.
Training riders and horses using this hybrid method of German and French origin has taken Heath over 25 years to perfect, and it is an ongoing education. Like any good horseman, Heath believes riding and training to be a lifelong pursuit in perfection, ongoing, and always refining and perfecting his technique and skills. Mixing the lightness of the French classical system, with the disciplined methodic approach of the German Federation is not for every rider. In today’s age of cookie cutter dressage , and diluted non GNEF ( German National Equestrian Federation) methods, it is important to be able to distinguish between true Dressage, and everything else. At Kings Oak, we utilize time tested techniques that emphasize discipline, hard work and commitment to produce horses and riders that represent the very best in Dressage and Show Jumping.
This method is not for everyone, and we encourage the interested rider to come for a tour and interview, as acceptance to the Kings Oak program is based on an application and riding interview process. This selection process is not based on your riding proficiency alone, but instead on what your overall dedication is, to enhance your horsemanship; to become a better rider, with lightness of the aids, correct use of the aids, and a rider who values first and foremost your horse, as your partner, not a beast of burden, or a means to a blue ribbon. Whether your goals are jumping, dressage, pleasure, or competition; if a classical, intimate and results based program is what you are looking for, Kings Oak is the first choice for a, classical training and riding program.
Trainer Bio
Heath Curry
Heath Curry (born Michael Heath Curry in Portland, Oregon in 1974) was born into a horse family and bound for the saddle at a very early age. Heath’s early training, which shaped him as the rider he is today, was by the classically trained, Margaret Barz. Upon meeting Heath for the first time, Margaret had just moved back to the States from Austria after the passing of her husband of 35 years. Margaret proceeded to train Heath in the old world tradition in Dressage for the next 15 years, until her passing in 1997.
After Margarets passing, Heath continued his education with a number of talented trainers including Kyra Kyrkland, Jane Savoie, and Jessica Ranshuesen. With an industry shift to more competition-based dressage training, Heath traded his dressage whip for a show jumping crop. Heath went to work for local show jumping legend Rich Fellers in 1992 as a Groom, but was quickly promoted to Barn Manager then working student. Eventually deciding to pursue his dream of becoming a professional himself, Heath started what was to become Kings Oak Sport Horses in 1994.
In recent years, Heath has continued to grow Kings Oak Sport Horses and a list of clientèle from the Northwest and beyond. With the recent move to a new facility, Heath is more active than ever in training as well as competition. Venturing back in to the show ring with his 4-year-old thoroughbred prospect “Sana”, Heath is excited to experience the challenge of competition, and equally excited to pass this knowledge on to his students.