Driving
In some
ways, driving is the most demanding equine discipline. A rider can use
legs and body weight as aides, and is in direct contact with the horse, but the
driver is separated from the horse and has only three aides: voice, hands and
whip. For the driver, the timing of aides and observation of the horse and
surroundings are critical.
Harness and carriage are more
complex than saddle and bridle, and this means more potential for improper
adjustment and equipment failure. These factors make driving less forgiving of
error than riding, and when problems occur, they can quickly escalate into
crises. Like piloting a plane, driving may look easy, but only when everything
is going well!
A good driver needs to be perceptive, with good coordination and good timing. Good judgment -- whether instinctive or acquired by long experience, is also essential. Olaf has both natural ability as a horseman, and decades of experience with all kinds of driving, harness making, and carriage design. This combination gives him unexcelled authority in driving circles.
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