Centered Riding founder Sarah "Sally" Swift, died on April 2nd, just weeks away from her 96th birthday. Diagnosed with scoliosis as a child, she worked closely with therapist Mabel Ellsworth Todd learning how to use imagery and other mind-body techniques. 

Sally later developed the principles that she called “Centered Riding” based on the teachings of Todd, the Alexander technique and other methods.  She wrote and published the book Centred Riding in 1985.  Worldwide acceptance of these principles has seen the book published in many different languages.

In recognition for her work and methods developed, in 2006 Swift was inducted into the United States Dressage Federation Hall of Fame, and in 2008 she received the annual Equine Industry Vision Award, presented by Pfizer Animal Health and American Horse Publications.

A comment from the Centred Riding website states – “The world was made a better place by Sally Swift, and the horse world and all who came to love her deeply mourn her passing.”

RIP Sarah “Sally” Swift.

www.centeredriding.org

© Cyberhorse 2009 Melissa Alexander