Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (SMWC) was excited to have Chris Cox, a world-renowned clinician, host a three-day clinic for students and equine professionals from around the country last week. Cox, who grew up in Florida, is a four-time undefeated world champion of Road to the Horse, reserve champion of the Perry Dilorreto Invitational team roping and recipient of the Equitarian of the Year award.
Edward Ferguson, department chair of the equine department at SMWC, shared what a great opportunity the clinic was for the department. “The clinic is bringing national exposure to our equine program via the hosting of such a followed equestrian expert such as Chris Cox and this will be televised on Chris’ cable TV show.”
Over the three-day clinic on campus, attendees and equine riders were educated and trained by Cox as he shared his expertise on training horses and how to maintain and prevent issues and challenges that might occur. The clinic hosted 25 equine riders with hands-on training with Cox and his team. There was an average of 80 people on each day of the clinic.
“Because of how many people there are attending, it allows for networking with the local and nearby equine industry professionals and parents,” Ferguson stated.
SMWC students had a significant advantage at the clinic as well. Students could present their student ID and be granted FREE admission all three days to the clinic. Ferguson added that having some current and former students audit during the clinic reaffirmed what a good choice to host the clinic was to meet the educational needs of the students.
Angie McMillin, equine facilities manager and main organizer of the event, stated that the department is thankful to have had Chris come out to The Woods. “He really cares about educating adults and students, so we were just thrilled to have him here.”
The SMWC Equine Department plans to host more clinics for equine enthusiasts in the future.