New Member Spotlight: CJ Giacomini

 

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How long have you ridden astride & aside?

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I have been riding astride for twenty years and have been riding aside for four years.

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What disciplines do you like to ride?

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When I am not riding aside, my chosen discipline is jumpers. But I will try anything once.

 

What first interested you in sidesaddle?

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I have always wanted to try new things, especially when it comes to horses and riding. I don't remember what first interested me, other than it would be nifty to give it a try.  

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What is your favorite thing to do aside?

 

The same thing it is to do astride, jump! 

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Do you ride one particular horse aside or multiple? Are they new to sidesaddle as well?

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Fort the most part, I ride my horse Melo aside. I have also thrown the saddle on my older horse Carlo to see what he would do. Both of them were new to side saddle the first time I rode them aside.

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What do you find most challenging aside?

 

For me the most challenging thing about riding aside is looking elegant. I  have been training horses astride for years so have gotten into the habit sometimes of doing what works , not necessarily what makes me look the best.

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What advice would you give someone interested in trying sidesaddle?

 

Don't stop trying to find a way to try! The community if very helpful and welcoming and we are always happy to help someone learn.

 

Why did you join ISSO?

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To be part of a group  that was passionate and knowledgeable about side saddle, to share the passion and to learn what I can.  

 

What would you like to see ISSO accomplish in the next few years?

 

I would love to see ISSO grow and reach more people in the  next few years. Side saddle is too fun to be a dying art.

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What do you do when not riding?

When I am not riding I am an avid seamstress, mostly working on garb and costuming for Ren Fairs, and a bookseller.

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Photo Credits: Meghan Walker, Barbara Drogo, CJ Giacomini

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If you would like to be considered for an upcoming issue please email info@sidesaddle.com

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