Interview by Lindsay Hunter
Photography credits: Captured Moment Photography
As we gear up for our highly anticipated spring event, featuring a panel discussion with some of the top equestrian professionals, we had the opportunity to sit down with Grand Prix show jumper Lane Clarke. A respected rider and trainer, Clarke has made a name for himself in the sport with his expertise in developing young horses and his deep understanding of horsemanship. Before he joins us for our event, we wanted to learn more about his training philosophy, his approach to working with horses, and his insights into facility design and horse management.
A Thoughtful Approach to Training
Clarke’s philosophy revolves around understanding a horse’s individual limits. “Every horse has a threshold,” he explains. “The amount of pressure they can handle depends on their training and temperament. The key is finding that threshold and working within it.” He likens this to children—what seems overwhelming at one stage of life becomes manageable as they grow. Clarke focuses on exposing horses to challenges in a way that builds trust and resilience, whether that means working near a spooky object or engaging them in strenuous tasks before allowing them to relax near something they fear.
His approach with the talented yet initially difficult Venom is a testament to this method. “Venom was beyond spooky. He wouldn’t even jump poles on the ground,” Clarke recalls. Through patience and carefully designed training, Venom transformed into a top competitor, winning numerous high-stakes classes.
Facility Design: A Key to Success
While Clarke is not a facility designer, he understands the importance of well-designed spaces in developing both young and seasoned horses. “A good facility provides options,” he says. Essential elements include:
Varied arena sizes: Smaller arenas help with collection, while larger ones allow horses to stretch and move freely. He also values arenas with and without rails, as open spaces can challenge a horse’s rideability in different ways.
Safe, grippy footing: Good footing is critical to prevent injuries and support optimal performance. Clarke prefers a firm yet slightly forgiving surface, such as a blend of sand and synthetic fibers, which provides traction while minimizing impact on joints. However, he emphasizes that footing choices should be tailored to the specific discipline—what works for jumpers, who need stability for takeoff and landing, differs from dressage horses, who require a surface with more cushion for collection, or reiners, who need footing that allows for controlled sliding stops.
Turnout spaces: Different pasture sizes allow for gradual reintegration of recovering horses. Small paddocks help limit movement for horses coming back from injury, while large pastures provide room for mental and physical relaxation. Proper spacing between paddocks enables horses to interact socially while preventing biting or injury.
Gallop tracks and obstacle areas: Having a designated gallop track allows horses to fully extend their stride, promoting cardiovascular fitness. Clarke also finds value in incorporating natural and artificial obstacles such as small ditches, bridges, and water elements to expose horses to various challenges.
Jump chute areas: Jump chutes allow young horses to develop confidence over fences without a rider. Clarke prefers chutes that also function as training spaces, where horses can observe before participating.
Euro walker and lunge areas: He highlights the importance of a walker, which allows horses to move without being tied up, improving fitness and mobility.
Well-designed stalls with attached runs: Clarke believes in spacious stalls with run-outs, giving horses the ability to move naturally throughout the day.
Additionally, weather control features—such as misting systems for cooling in hot climates and heated wash racks for colder areas—help maintain horses’ comfort year-round. Clarke also points out that well-placed, non-slip footing around barns and pathways is often overlooked but critical for safety.
Beyond functionality, he values human-focused amenities, such as comfortable viewing lounges, office spaces, and even small apartments for staff, ensuring that the people caring for the horses have an optimal work environment as well.
Clarke highlights the need for great stall design, high-quality watering systems, and technology like stall cameras for monitoring sick or pregnant horses. “Even small details, like well-designed tack rooms and comfortable viewing areas, contribute to the success of a training operation,” he notes.
A Lifelong Dedication to the Sport
Coming from five generations of horsemen, Clarke’s deep connection to the sport is evident in his training methods and horse care. He blends practical wisdom with patience and adaptability, ensuring that both his horses and his clients receive top-tier training. Whether refining a young horse’s confidence or optimizing their daily environment, Clarke’s approach underscores the importance of understanding, trust, and proper management in equestrian sports.
