Charles Wilson on Millstone Lad winning 1 Day Event 1980
Charles has a lifetime's experience of working with horses. Starting as a child, Charles rode for fun until his student days (MA St Catherine's, Cambridge) when he began to study dressage. He took his Stud management cert. and achieved BSHAI at the Scottish Equitation centre. Throughout his twenties Charlie continued to train, working for Henri Gyllis and Col. VDS Williams (father of Dorian, and co founder of the BHS).
Training his own horses from his late twenties, Charles has successfully competed in all the major disciplines. It is this all round horsemanship skill and knowledge that gives such a deep insight into his work with both horse and rider. Charles evented - competing at the Locko Park Nat. Champs., also at Bramham, and won up to Open Intermediate events. He also point to pointed for three seasons, qualifying for hunter chases. He also did BSJA and team chased during this time.
Dressage has always been a particular love, and he has competed to Medium level, always on horses backed and schooled by himself.
Charles has shown county level since he was 19, and won county championships on hacks, cobs and coloureds.
It is the Wilson philosophy that horses have a varied life, and are expected to compete in a mixture of disciplines. The chestnut, Millstone lad, competed in every discipline mentioned above, as well as carrying Charles hunting for 7 seasons, giving toddlers their first ride, and being part of the family for 20 years.
The two coloured warmblood stallions Charles has ridden for the last 2 decades have both been ridden to great success; both competed in dressage to a high level, did N H to level 3 and ridden liberty, were shown and sired winning stock.
For many years Charles taught as a free lance instructor,and backed and brought on young horses (as well as being a farmer and Nuffield Scholar). After a chance introduction to Natural Horsemanship techniques, Charles has become one of the foremost N H practitioners in the UK. His expertise is welcomed by riders of all ages and riding disciplines, including readers of Your Horse, where he has answered problems and written articles for the past 4 years.
Charles Wilson on Millstone Lad winning 1 Day Event 1980
Charles Wilson on Cotwell eventing 1982
Charles Wilson on Millstone Lad at Bramham 1984
What is natural Horsemanship and how can it help my horse?
It should be remembered that all the best in natural, or any other form of horse training, remains the same, respect for the horse, firm but fair treatment and communication.
In natural Horsemanship, we do not force the horse with mechanical means like draw reins, tight nosebands, harsh bits or brute force. Using those methods, horses can become either dull or frightened and aggressive.
But if we can develop a partnership based on communication, the horse will co-operate willingly and be a pleasure to ride. The communication is based on body language in much the same way that horses communicate with each other; to begin with, this partnership is developed with ground work where we can more easily see if the horse is working correctly and more softly. The horses are then ridden on a halter with loose reins to develop relaxed and free paces (and our own balance).
When the bridle is introduced, it is used in a refined way with soft contact, developing the horses balance and athleticism. To develop the partnership between rider and horse further, liberty work tests the communication and trust between you. The emphasis is always on getting the horses mind and emotions sorted out, once that has happened there are no limits to what you and your horse can achieve.
You may not feel you have a problem horse, but you dont need a problem with a horse in order to improve the relationship you have with your horse. Using natural horsemanship techniques, Charles can help with many common problems:
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Poor stable manners
Pulling away / napping
Rearing
Headshy / Biting
Wont be caught
Kicking
Bucking / saddling problems
Stopping at fences
No brakes
Unmanageable away from home
Resistant and leaning on the bit
Mounting / standing still
Natural horsemanship techniques will help you understand the underlying issues and Charles will help you overcome the problems. With his classical training he will also help you ride more effectively and with more understanding.
There are no quick-fix cures, but we can guarantee help that is effective and enjoyable for you both, and you get the benefit of tuition from a fully rounded horseman who is highly skilled in many equine disciplines.
Mission Statement
The mission of Charles Wilson is to teach you the principles of Horsemanship:
to enrich your knowledge and enjoyment of riding
to clarify and improve your position ,balance and seat
to improve the horses co-operation and willingness
to demonstrate connections and similarities between natural training methods and classical riding
to teach according to the needs of the individual rider and horse
to guide you through the journey with respect and understanding
to provide a safe and positive learning environment
