In Episode 17 of The Fifth Gait Podcast, we sit down with Kathy for a wide-ranging conversation about a lifetime dedicated to Icelandic horsemanship, the horses that shaped her journey, and what it means to continue pursuing excellence well into your later years.
Kathy shares her experiences competing at the highest levels of Icelandic horsemanship, including the challenges of bringing American riders and horses to the World Championships, the moments that have humbled her, and the friendships and community that make this sport so special. We also dive into the story of Pegasus, an extraordinary horse whose training, longevity, and physical ability continue to influence riders decades into his career.
The conversation goes deeper into horse-human communication, correct training, gait training, and the importance of developing a true connection with your horse. Kathy discusses her approach to training, the challenges of working with different gaits—including tölt—and what riders can continue learning as they age.
We also explore how Icelandic culture and Icelandic horsemanship have influenced Kathy's philosophy, from resourcefulness and practical problem-solving to the unique community surrounding the breed. Finally, we look toward the future of Icelandic horsemanship: how the sport can attract more riders, create greater access to education, and preserve the connection between humans and horses for generations to come.
Whether you're an Icelandic horse enthusiast, competitive rider, trainer, or simply someone who believes horses have an important place in human life, this episode offers a thoughtful look at horsemanship, lifelong learning, competition, community, and the future of the Icelandic horse.
Topics discussed: • Icelandic horsemanship and riding at the highest levels • World Championship experiences • Training and horse-human communication • Pegasus and the importance of correct training • Tölt training and gait development • Riding and competing as you age • Icelandic culture and its influence on horsemanship • The Icelandic horse community • The future of Icelandic horsemanship • Why horses continue to matter to humans and society
