Patti Hudson

Riding and Writing the West

Patti grew up in San Antonio, but her family roots were in the arid Trans-Pecos region of Texas and there she received an early exposure to horses and ranching.

Her first formal riding instruction came at Fort Sam Houston, where the Modern Pentathlon stabled and trained its horses. "The place was steeped in talent and tradition. They took a very disciplined approach to riding," Patti says. "It was quite a bit different from what I was used on the ranch."

But one elderly colonel, whose service went back to mounted cavalry days, was less regimented. "There was still some open country around the post and he liked to get out in it and ride. He'd sing little ditties to us and seemed to just flat out love horses and love being on one. He imparted a joy I still feel every time I swing on a horse."

Although she took the other instructors' lessons seriously and eventually competed successfully in both English and Western events, Patti found the show ring confining. In the mid-70s she and Eric relocated to the high desert country of eastern Oregon and a landscape similar to what she had known in West Texas. She became acquainted with Ray Hunt soon after the move. "Like so many others, I was completely changed by him. I thought I knew something about horses, until I met him."

Through Ray, Patti also became aquainted with Tom Dorrance. She rode with and wrote about both men for many years and strives to carry on their teachings. Over the years there have been numerous other clinicians and learning opportunities.

"I've been very fortunate to have known and spent time with some truly great horsemen. They've all had a tremendous influence on me, but it's the horse who has been my most steady and patient teacher. There's no end to what we can learn from horses. The lessons they offer go beyond riding and right to the heart of what it means to be human."

Patti has worked as a day rider on local ranches for last 20 years.

Patti also enjoys helping others in their horsemanship journey and occasionally conducts small clinics where she can gently encourage both horse and rider to reach new levels. In her calm and reassuring way, Patti creates a comfortable environment for riders to increase their skills, overcome problems and enjoy their horses even more.

Look for Patti at the Cowgirl Getaway in Yakima Valley Washington, September 10, 11 & 12, 2010
at Cherry Wood B B and B

Home Page - Riding - Writing - Photographs

Patti Hudson
P.O. Box 71
Long Creek, OR 97856

ring: 541 421-3456

email: patti@pattihudson.com

 

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