The all-indoor event, was supported by Scotland's Horse News, BHS Scotland, Scothorse, Scottish Equestrian Magazine Oatridge College and captivated the audience with a stunning program of Supreme Equine Arena demonstrations from some of the equestrian world's most talented stars. The exciting line-up included Sylvia Loch International Teacher, Lecturer, author and judge of Classical Dressage riding her spectacular performance of Phantom of the opera.

Onlookers were privy to watching Sylvia warm up on her stunning Andalusian Stallion Espada before leaving the arena to reenter wearing her striking costume accompanied by the music from the Phantom Of The Opera. Her mask and long black cloak added to the dramatic ambiance of the ride. The stunning Black stallion responded effortlessly to Sylvia's correct and well applied aids confirming everything that Sylvia has taught for so many years, through her lessons, books and videos.

Throughout the performance Sylvia and Espada showed off their upper dressage movements and thrilled the crowd with Spanish Walk Tempi changes and Piaffe. Amongst the crowd whispers of sheer delight could be heard confirming that the show was enjoyed by all.

At the end of the performance Sylvia addressed the audience and explained the basic principles of the Classical Seat.

Much emphasis was placed on correct balance, the necessity for correct and consistent aids, and that less is often more when communicating with the horse, kindness and patience being the two most important points when working and teaching the basics and more advanced movements in dressage.

Sylvia then returned to her stand where visitors were able to ask questions and meet with this wonderful Scottish celebrity. Children were delighted to have her sign autographs, which clearly concludes that the Art of Classical Dressage will very much stay alive for many generations to come.

Sylvia and friends at the Classical Riding Club stand

Richard Maxwell

Richard Maxwell renown Horse Whisperer and author of "From Birth to Backing" demonstrated his skills on both days. The most impressive of the two demonstrations taking place on the Sunday as the subject was somewhat more challenging - a domineering ex-racing thoroughbred, who's owner was finding it increasingly difficult to catch. His owner had expressed how he would act aggressively kicking out and biting whilst being handled or whilst trying to be caught in the field.

It was apparent from the start that the horse wanted to be in control, he continually invaded Richard's space, ignored his presence and paid little or no attention to his handler with all his energy being turned towards the audience and his surrounding environment. However this was soon to change! Richard's simple but consistent handling techniques clearly demonstrated to the horse that the horse was not going to be allowed to be in control! Richard explained and demonstrated to the audience how it is necessary for each horse to respect his handlers space, that pushing and shoving was considered as rudeness and should not be tolerated because of the danger.

Steadily Richard gained more and more control over the horses shoulders and quarters. Within a short period a once barging horse learned to follow and halt when requested to do so, he became more finely tuned to Richard's movements, stayed slightly behind as he led the horse forwards and at last accepted being led peacefully, halting when Richard halted. The most remarkable of all was at the end of the demonstration, a once nervous bulshy horse now stood quietly as Richard requested that the audience roar and applaud, a truly remarkable and educative lesson for all!

Andrew Hamilton

From Dressage training and natural horsemanship to showjumping, a familiar face to many Andrew Hamilton, Scotland's leading Show jumper demonstrated his jumping skills, providing a humorous and educational spectacle. Andrew added a great sense of humor and fun to his display with impersonations of fellow showjumpers, all taken in good spirit from onlooker Ron Brady.

Remarkably Andrew was able to address the audience whilst jumping over combinations and fences of a considerable height on his mounts Sylvano Van Texa Bos and Dutch warmblood stallion Ludwig H. Both horses over the course of the weekend clearly demonstrated once again how patience and reward are of the utmost of importance if successful results are your main goal in the competition arena.. not at all phased or fatigued by the weekends events, Andrew left the fair and traveled to Devon Leisure Equestrian Centre where he successful took first prize in the open on his horse Teddy Bear!

David Lloyd demonstrated his Western Riding skills followed by a stallion parade from Scotland's successful studs. The Scottish Equine Fair also hosted a spectacular display from the Scottish Icelandic Horse Association and The Highland Pony Society. The Icelandic's were seen showing off remarkable gaits, including the Pace and the Tolt. The Highlands demonstrated the versatility of the breed, including dressage and carriage driving.

All in all the show was a tremendous success. Trade stand numbers were more numerous than the previous year and included a wealth of information and goods. Tack shops were plentiful, gifts were purchased and cards were bought, many raising money for societies and charities, such as BHS Scotland, ILPH and many more.

Following the tremendous success of the event it looks like Contour Exhibitions will be returning next year. Long may it continue!