DETAILS:
| Clinic: |
3 Day Foundation Focuesed Horsemanship Clinic |
| Host: |
Renee Wilson |
| Dates: |
December 12 - 14, 2025 |
| Location: |
Southern Sky Stables, 3075 Jackson Road, Mooresville NC 28115 |
Whether you're bringing home a new horse, developing a young one, or refining a seasoned partner, this three-day clinic is designed to build a solid foundation for long-term success, on the ground and under saddle.
Led by internationally recognized horseman Dan James of Double Dan Horsemanship, this progressive clinic focuses on the fundamentals of communication, trust, and correct movement. You’ll gain hands-on experience in the same step-by-step methods Dan uses with every horse he starts.
Clinic Overview
Day 1 & 2: Ground Control
Learn the foundation of all great horsemanship: respect and responsiveness on the ground. Dan will guide you through the core Ground Control exercises that develop softness in the halter, hindquarter and shoulder control, side-passing, and backing up.
You’ll also learn how to confidently communicate with your horse using accurate cues while advancing through exercises. These sessions help your horse develop balance, focus, and confidence, setting them up for success under saddle.
Day 3: Under Saddle
Bring your groundwork to life under saddle. Dan will demonstrate how the foundation you’ve built transfers into the ride through five key exercises that improve softness, body control, and communication.
You’ll refine your cues, improve your horse’s responsiveness, and learn how to create a relaxed, confident, and connected ride.
Who This Clinic Is For
-New horse owners looking to establish or refresh a foundation
-Young horse owners preparing for a ridden career
-Riders interested in groundwork-based training methods
-Anyone seeking a thoughtful, horse-first approach to foundation work
What’s Included
-3 full days of hands-on instruction with Dan James
-Individual feedback and Q&A opportunities
-Front-row access to Dan’s live coaching and demonstrations
Cost & Registration
Participant: $750 (limited to 10 participants)
Auditor: $250 for 3 days or $110/day
(Auditors welcome.)
Double Dan Horsemanship – Clinic FAQ
Whether you're auditing or participating, here’s everything you need to know before arriving at a Double Dan Horsemanship clinic:
GENERAL SCHEDULE
🕘 What time does the clinic start?
Clinics begin at 9:00 AM each day. We recommend arriving 30 minutes early to park, get settled, and take in the surroundings. Dan will start with a brief introduction and organize the day’s sessions. These times are subject to change depending on weather.
📅 How is the clinic structured?
Each participant works individually with Dan during a session. Sessions run from 9:00 AM to approximately 4:00 PM, with a one-hour lunch break around midday. There isn't a set duration for each session; instead, each session is personalized to meet the specific goals of the participant and the needs and skill set of their horse.
AUDITOR INFORMATION
🐴 Can I bring my horse if I’m auditing?
No. Only clinic participants may bring horses. Auditor spots are for observation and learning only.
PARTICIPANT INFORMATION
🐴 How do I reserve a stall for my horse?
- Contact Renee Wilson | 704-881-6682 | southernskystablesnc@gmail.com
What should I bring to the clinic?
For groundwork sessions, bring a well-fitting halter and a lead rope that’s at least 10 feet long. A dressage, carriage, or lunge whip, or a similar tool that acts as an extension of your arm, is also recommended.
For the ridden portion, use the tack and equipment you typically ride your horse in.
What if my horse isn’t under saddle yet?
No problem! You’re still welcome to participate. Horses that aren’t started under saddle can continue with groundwork on the final day instead of transitioning to ridden work.