Britt McCormick has been successfully training horses and riders for the past 25 years. Born into an equestrian family, he grew up on a hunter/jumper horse farm and began riding as a child. He is an accomplished rider, trainer, a USEF Course Designer, and an active member of the USHJA and USEF (serving on multiple national governance committees).
The driving forces behind everything at Elmstead Farm are: concern, love, and appreciation for the animals, joined with a passion for helping riders achieve their goals within this fantastic and lifelong sport.
The comfortable private farm, years of training experience, horse management expertise, and highly professional atmosphere make Elmstead Farm one of the most successful show stables in Texas.
Horse Training:
Britt’s training methods are based on the knowledge that each horse is a dynamic and complex individual, and that the training process can not be rushed. A unique and flexible training program is implemented for each horse. Constantly evaluating a horse in the ring and in the barn, Britt works with the owner, veterinarian and farrier to create a plan that builds upon a horse’s individual strengths and suitability. New challenges are gradually introduced and reinforced so that a horse will achieve it’s full potential with confidence. These training methods work to produce a horse that is very successful in the show ring; however, show ring success is not the solitary goal. The horse management practices at Elmstead prioritize soundness and health with the goal that each horse will be healthy and rideable for many years into the future.
Riding Instruction:
Britt’s methods of riding instruction are based on the equitation, and horsemanship principles set forth by former successful riders and horsemen such as Bill Steinkraus, Jimmy Williams, and George Morris. Britt emphasizes simple yet effective techniques for properly communicating with the horse. Britt’s goal is for each student to become an effective, quiet, and independent rider. Through this process riders will also gain the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the show ring.
