Expressing my gratitude..... I'm not sure where to start expressing my gratitude. I was very apprehensive about participating in a clinic given by "such a famous person". I wrongfully assumed you would be, at the very least, conceited and unapproachable! I could not have been more mistaken. I learned more in two days that I have in years. I could not believe the change in my horse in one day. Both my horse (and my Mom's horse) are now on a program with the Rhythm Collector and the exercises you taught. - Cheryl Bixel
Poem about Richard Shrake... Resistance Free® I've known some old time cowboys, surely good horse hands, Who forked their mounts on the lone prairie, and rode for some famous brands. They could turn a broomtail coyote into a real good circus horse, Though I saw rides that sailed toward the sky, in a might unchartered course. They called them twisters, rough string riders, bronc fighters and the like Most had a quiet bark, but you'd better watch their bite! was it a gift or a calling, skill or plain dumb luck, The's get the reins and swing aboard, "Pull the blind and let 'er buck:! Thos old time twisters ride the rang no more, they've crossed the "Great Divide", And the mustang broncs re let run loose, a freeze brand on their government hide. I for one am glad that there's few outlaws left to tame, The horses we ride now have more between their ears and less beneath their mane. Yet not all are perfect in nature, shape or size. And if we're to teach them winning ways, we must be "Bridle Wise" There are many methods of man that work to some degree, And then there is a way that works for the horse, it's called "Resistance Free". It is the way of the trainer's trainer, Mr. Richard Shrake, The master of horsemanship, and he knows just what it takes. To gain insight to each horse's mind, learn how he thinks inside. And teach you the feel and confidence in your ability to ride. First you start with learning, if you're going to teach, Richard has the tools and plan to put your goals within your reach A horse must be allowed to learn and then accept, without the fear of force. I hope all your ways are winning and "May you always ride a good horse". - Craig J Nelson
Comparing the I would like to thank you for your article on "Comparing Methods: Horse Whisperer to Resistance Free®. It is the most concise review I have ever read. The analyzation of the "Horse Whisper" in thought out and explained as any out there, but the comparison of your methods is said so well. This I can state through experience with you myself. I feel very fortunate to have trained with you and as I watched the movie I could see so many synoptic situations, yet your concluding statements on the "laying down" of the horse where stated by a true horseman and teacher. As you stated, this movie is only for entertainment. I hope everyone reads your article so they see how observant and intelligent you are. - Donna Spangler
Immense knowledge and instruction Richard is the epitome of what every instructor hopes to become. He has contributed immense knowledge and wisdom to the world of riding instruction. I have been and instructor for over 25 years. My students have had a great deal of success in the show ring as well as many personal victories in the home arena. Richard has been a tremendous influence for me personally as well as hundreds of other instructors like myself, throughout the country. His teaching style emphasizes a special kind of gentleness and understanding toward both horse and rider. I feel very strongly that no other professional has contributed so very much to our industry as Mr. Richard Shrake. - Leesa Massman
Renewed my confidence... I am writing to thank you for sharing your gift of quietness with horses. A month ago I started to watch your Resistance Free® dvds. Through your dvds, I have found the connection I have been missing. I have incorporated your methods in every aspect of horses. You have helped me renew my enthusiasm and love for horses. I have decided to go back into horses full time and this is where I would like to begin my education. -
I feel like I could win Congress... In case you have any doubts about the success of your clinic in Fort Dodge, I can tell you I feel like I could win the Congress! What a motivational speaker you are! And, apparently , a really nice guy at that. You were so down-to-earth and personal. I felt like I had known you for years and that we were sitting around visiting in someone's living room. You took me from laughter to tears, but the great part of the whole weekend was that you made me believe I can do it! -Roxy Ashby
Richard's Graduate Program is far superior... I have been a student and apprenticed with other nationally known trainers. Richard's Graduate Program is far superior to any other course I have taken. I look forward to continuing my education with him. Thanks for all of your good work! -Bonnie Allen
Absolutely fantastic book, Resistance Free® Riding... I want to let you know what an absolutely fantastic book, Resistance Free® Riding has been for me. It is a genuine masterpiece and has improved my riding tremendously. Your methods have turned my riding into almost a musical experience! All I know is that my riding has become more harmonious. Thank you, it is outstanding! -Debbie Trefethen
You have my complete admiration and loyalty... I attended your Masters Program and I left feeling a measure of confidence I'd never felt before. I felt a passion for horses and learning more. I want to give students the same confidence you gave to me and teach them rhythm and timing and what they can do with it. I want it to be as much fun for them as it is for me. You have my complete admiration and loyalty and I'll voice my thoughts to you, your methods and your products with equal enthusiasm. Angela Gretlein