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When Carl Bessette left New Jersey I set out to find
another instructor. He had shown me that there was a body of knowledge
developed over centuries of horsemanship. I knew that a career as a
rider and trainer wouldnt be possible if I didn't study with the best
in the country. Fortunately, within a two hours lived two of America's
finest trainers, George Morris and Frank Chapot.
I purchased the thoroughbred mare Georgie Girl in the
fall of 1976. At the first opportunity I hauled her to Neshanic
Station, New Jersey to Frank Chapot. As a rider, Frank Chapot had
amassed an unbelievable competition record. Five Olympic appearances
including two silver medals, forty-six winning Nations Cup teams, a
bronze medal in the 74 World Championships and innumerable
international wins attested to his skill as a competitor. More
importantly to me, he enjoyed teaching and was able to work me in his
schedule for private lessons.
Frank demanded strict discipline and maximum effort. With
a keen eye, he continued to refine my position and poise as a jumper rider.
Frank insisted that you strive for perfection and allowed little room for
error. He also had a wonderful reputation for bringing the most out of average
horses. This ability kept Georgie Girl and I on the right track through the
winter for three years.
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