For the first time, the traditional art of the Garrocha is fully explained and demonstrated by John Saint Ryan (USA National Champion in Doma Vaquera 2004, 2005, and 2006) through a step-by-step process. Now, you can learn at your own pace using the traditional methods John teaches at his clinics.

This film will guide you in developing the skills necessary to practice this wonderful horsemanship art, as originally taught to John by experts such as José Manuel Martín de León. This film, suitable for beginners to intermediate riders, includes:

1. A brief history of the Garrocha
2. The tack and equipment
3. Exercises on the ground with the Garrocha
4. Exercises on horseback with and without the Garrocha
5. How to safely introduce the Garrocha to your horse
6. Basic exercises at the walk, trot, and canter with the Garrocha
7. Intermediate exercises at the gallop with more advanced maneuvers
8. Exhibition highlights from the National Championships

DVD REVIEWS

"The fine art of the Garrocha has finally been revealed to us all who live with horses in America. John Saint Ryan is a multifaceted man in riding, training, exhibitions, singing, acting, and now a surprise movie production. The history revealed is thorough and interesting. It is recorded in a concise manner. In all aspects from the beginning to the end of this beautifully produced DVD John demonstrates in the presentation chapters a logical sequence of progression. All beginners will be thrilled to learn how important it is to learn this discipline so as not to frighten their horse. All aficionados will respect the phased lessons for accuracy. This elegantly produced DVD introduces the "Art of the Garrocha" as developing a bond between horse and rider. The careful explanation with the visual presentation makes this more than the "how to" response to accomplish this riding discipline. It does so with grace and precision. John Saint Ryan has shared his wonderful ability to explain in simple steps for all students of horsemanship from the beginning, to successfully achieve a capability of this dignified and artistic rendition of the historic birth of modern "cowboy" skills on horses. Thank you John for producing the first DVD of this kind of horsemanship skill to America. We hope that all horsemen will revere this skill and learn it easily by following it along. The best that could happen is that this DVD will popularize the Garrocha into many exhibitions across our land, as well as internationally." - Graham & Lanys Kaye-Eddie
Foundation for the Pure Spanish Horse

"The Art of the Garrocha is one of the most well-organized and thoughtfully prepared horsemanship video that I have found. The sections on history of the Garrocha and tack and equipment are good introductions to those new to the Garrocha, and the Exhibition footage is truly inspirational. One realizes while watching this DVD that working with the Garrocha is not just for one discipline of riding. The principles and exercises presented here can help with improving balance, refining the aids, and achieving better communication with your horse no matter what style of riding you do. John Saint Ryan thoughtfully includes different breeds and training levels to emphasis this point. Many instructional DVDs show only the perfected footage of the horse. I found the inclusion of less confident horses and potential challenges that can arise very refreshing, as it lets the rider get a look at how to safely handle a real-life situation. I look forward to more from John Saint Ryan on the Advanced Garrocha exercises, but for now this DVD gives me plenty of useful exercises for both my green horse and my more advanced horse." - Katy Sommers DVM

"This is a very well done step-by-step introduction into the Art of the Garrocha. The DVD production values are first-rate and the instruction progresses in a logical, understandable manner. It's full of good practical advice for anyone interested in advancing their horsemanship and developing better communication with their horse, regardless of the breed or style of riding. John Saint Ryan is a fine horseman and an excellent teacher. After purchasing the DVD and seeing how he rides and communicates, I'm interested in attending one of his clinics." - P. Hudson

"This is an excellent DVD for anyone that wants a step-by-step introduction into the Art of the Garrocha. The camara work and sound are very professional and it is enjoyable as well as informative to watch. I use the garrocha and related exercises for my own horses and have found them to be extremely effective in developing the communication needed for all kinds of equitation. I highly recommend this to anyone wishing to develop a good basic bond with his or her horse no matter what the breed. Lots of information!" - M. Moreshead

"If you have ever wanted to incorporate the Garrocha into your riding routines, then this DVD is for you. John is a master Horseman with an incredible way with horses. He is also a very gifted teacher when it comes to humans. He has the ability to break down complex subjects into clear and concise components. He starts with the most basic components and slowly adds more until the whole picture is clear and understandable. This DVD presents lessons for both you and your horse. From selecting the right Garrocha, to learning how to handle the Garrocha without your horse, to introducing the Garrocha to your horse, and then on to work in the saddle. If you follow the lessons, you and your horse will feel comfortable and confident performing your routines with the Garrocha. To see how beautiful this can be, check out the YouTube video of John in Las Vegas. Search for John Saint Ryan Garrocha. Simply stunning!!!" - Wildhorse