Renowned horseman Roger Philpot is bringing his talents and knowledge to Aiken, South Carolina, USA..

The side saddle master and saddle fitter from the United Kingdom will be conducting clinics in Aiken Sept. 6-7 at Black Forest Equestrian Center. Hours for the clinic will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sept. 6, and he will be available for private lessons on Sept. 7.

"It's a great opportunity for those who would like to learn from Roger," said Betty Alexander with Aiken Ladies Aside; she traveled to England during the 1990s and studied side saddle with Philpot. "He has traveled all over the world and given lessons."

Philpot has a very impressive list of credentials, and his expertise and ability to connect with the riders he works with make him a most sought after clinician.

According to the Liberty Side Saddle website, he is an instructor for the Side Saddle Association, a past chairman of the SSA and a past chair of the Judge Examination Training Base. Philpot is based at Pittern Hill Stables in the Village of Kineton in Warwickshire, U.K.

Riders wishing to participate in the clinic must have a current Coggins. Stalls are available at Black Forest Equestrian Center for $25 a day.

In addition to the clinic, Philpot will look at the saddles of those horsemen participating in the event. The Saddle Doctor's Holly Spencer will be coming to the clinic and will shadow Philpot, Alexander said.

"She'll be the local person to work on side saddles," Alexander said.

There will also be a "Intro to Side Saddle" at Sporting Days Farm at 6 p.m. on Aug. 27 at the Pavilion. Alexander will be there with her horse and side saddle.

"It will give people an opportunity to ask questions and sit in the side saddle," Alexander said. "They can bring their own horse. There will also be habits they'll be able to look at."

The cost for the Roger Philpot clinic is $155, which includes a $20 ring fee and lunch. The cost to audit the clinic is $40, which includes lunch.

Checks should be made payable to Aiken Ladies Aside and be mailed to 1219 Stiefel Road, Aiken, SC 29805. They should be received no later than Aug. 30.

For more information, call 644-4882.

Contact Ben Baugh at bbaugh@aikenstandard.com.