Success at the grand prix level doesn’t come from tricks or magic potions, two-time Olympic gold medalist McLain Ward emphasized on the opening day of his recent show jumping clinic at Five Henry Stables in Aiken, S.C.

“Our training is not some wizardry,” Ward said. “It’s simple basic horsemanship that helps every horse go well.”

Twenty-five riders participated in four different sessions with Ward on April 14. Given Ward’s emphasis on discipline, details and the basics it was no surprise to the group that Day 1 focused entirely on gymnastics.