Horse Connection

Quotes from George Morris
Photos by Marc Patoile

George Morris conquered a childhood fear of horses to become a world-renowned hunter and jumper instructor, and is considered to be one of the most influential trainers in the history of equestrian sports. A rider with a long list of impressive wins, Morris is also a well-known author. His first book "Hunter Seat Equitation," is considered the “bible” among hunter/jumper riders. The Chronicle of the Horse named Morris one of the 50 Most Influential Horsemen of the 20th Century.

George’s clinics are not only packed solid with highly sophisticated instruction, they are also highly entertaining. Mr. Morris has a wicked sense of humor and pity to the noisy infant in the stands, or the rider who is not paying 110% attention. As always, George lets his rider know when he's not happy. "If your horse lacks impulsion, cluck and use your spur," he bellows at one rider. "Don't pump. You look like an ape in labor on the top limb of a tree."

The following quotes and photos are from the Morris clinic at Crooked Willow Farms.