As the temperatures start to drop, and the show schedules slow down, it can only mean one thing: It’s November, which means it’s time for No Stirrup November. This year the Chronicle is celebrating this annual tradition with the #COTHLoseTheLeathers Challenge, challenging riders to drop their irons for at least a portion of their ride 12 times during the month of November. Those who complete the challenge and send in their calendar will be entered into a drawing to win a variety of prizes, including our grand prize, a lesson with equitation guru Stacia Klein Madden. Click here to join the COTH #LoseTheLeathers Challenge Facebook group and learn more about the challenge.

We talked to Stacia Klein Madden about all things equitation, from the role of equitation in learning to ride to how she mentors young riders and helps them navigate the pressure of competing at the top level.

For more conversations about hot topics in the equestrian world visit coth.com where you’ll find articles, blogs, a community bulletin board and much more. The Chronicle of the Horse, founded in 1937, is the leader in sport horse news through our two magazines, website and podcast. We’re also on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @chronofhorse.

This episode is brought to you by Kickapoo Ponies and Hollins University.

Thank you to the prize donors for the Chronicle’s #LoseTheLeathers challenge. They include:

Kickapoo Ponies
Hollins University
Tucker Tweed
Straight Arrow
Prestige
Country And Stable
TattersallFox
Farnam