RUTH KNISPEL

 
Ruth Knispel’s equestrian activities began seriously when she lived in Red Deer with her husband George and their two small daughters.  She enrolled in riding lessons twice a week at the well-known Brand Equestrian Center.  It was a wonderful break for the young mother.  Her memories are of riding big, strong Thoroughbred horses and being introduced to riding in an English saddle, something she had not done before.


By the time the family moved to Lloydminster they had already begun a breeding program having purchased two mares in addition to a previously purchased well-bred Arabian colt  now a mature 3 year old stallion.  Their emphasis was on breeding and training athletic, strong English performance horses.


With the desire to do things properly and with a degree of excellence, Ruth read and studied good books on training techniques, watched carefully those who showed well, and received help and encouragement from  many people.


The Knispels purchased some property and built a home, a barn and eventually a riding arena.  The arena was an asset as they were showing extensively as a family with George working the young horses, Ruth training under saddle, and the girls showing. Showing as a family had its moments - good times and tense times - but together they learned, worked as a unit and supported one another.


Ruth believes that whatever you do, you are only as good as your instructor so it is important from whom you learn. Because they had the facility she began organizing clinics with top instructors. These clinics benefited not only the family but assisted many youth in the area, as well.


Ruth worked and trained with Lynda Ramsay They were to become friends and from this friendship the two were inspired to have the youth from the Arabian Club do a musical ride. The performers did a great job and for Ruth it remains a super memory.


As the families equestrian activities evolved, Ruth saw the need for good quality tack. She believes that a good quality fine leather saddle is simply a good investment. It positions the rider properly. She began a tack business that grew steadily, bringing in [equipment from New York and eventually imparting directly from England with customers coming from far and wide.


As a family, the Knispels have won numerous awards. They have been involved with the 4-H, local fairs and Arabian Shows in Western Canada at various levels up to the Canadian National Show.  They have completed successfully in Amateur as well as Open Classes.


Ruth loves training each horse that comes under her care.  Her aim is a soft, supple, willing and happy animal, allowing horse and rider to be as one, but it is a discipline.  By the backdoor she has a large picture of a horse and rider in dressage movement.  It is her picture of perfection and she looks at it before going to work a horse. Ruth does not see herself as a great equestrian rider.  Rather, she has enjoyed the privilege of being involved in this wonderful sport.  It is rewarding, super exercise and a fabulous hobby for the entire family.


The memories are varied, and for Ruth the journey was - and still is - wonderful.