"A fantastic book for riders who REALLY want to know how to get to the top of their disciplines, especially if they have limited resources. Denny empowers readers by reminding them that only THEY are in charge of their own destinies through making the hard decisions and sacrifices that will move them closer to their
goals. If you're looking for touchy-feely advice, call your mother; if
you're really serious about getting to the top and are willing to shed blood, sweat and tears to get there, Denny's real-life advice, hard truths and personal anecdotes, in combination with short profiles of successful riders from all disciplines, are sure to set ambitious riders on their own paths to success."
Elisabeth McMillan, Editor of EquestrianProfessional.com, “The Horse Business Site,” says:
“It’s been a long time since any book impressed me as much as Denny Emerson’s book ‘How Good Riders Get Good.’ As a retired professional equestrian, I wish I’d read it years ago when I was beginning my career. If I were still coaching, I’d probably insist every single one of my students (and their parents) read this book. It is simply a must read for all equestrians and their families. Not only does the book contain tips from top riders of nearly every breed and discipline, Denny takes the reader step-by-step through the journey that riders must take in order to become truly good. The honesty with which Denny writes and the wisdom behind his words makes the book a real 'page turner.' If you are a serious rider, you won’t be able to put it down. Denny tells you exactly what you need to know to succeed – the truth!”
Judy Richter, Renowned Trainer, Licensed AHSA “R” Judge, and columnist for the Chronicle of the Horse says:
“[Denny Emerson] forces us to ‘think outside the box’ and be realistic about ourselves and our horses and our goals. So much he says applies to much more than just our sport with its various breeds and disciplines, many of which he knows so well…His good rider profiles should inspire today’s ‘wannabes’ even though costs seem prohibitively high. I, too, still believe where there’s a will, there’s a way…What I like best about the book is the positive tone, which starts with the title and continues throughout…He provides guidelines for evaluating what you can do better, no matter your age and stage.”
John Strassburger, Performance Editor, Horse Journal says:
“Eventer Denny Emerson has heard many young riders tell him, ‘I want to win an Olympic gold medal!’ and that is usually followed with, ‘How do I get there?’ This book answers that. It describes the choices that may need to be made in the pursuit of a riding goal. Emerson doesn’t shy away from telling you what you may have to give up to achieve your goal, such as when he points out that the prime childbearing years are also the prime riding years. It’s clear that Emerson believes hard work and sacrifice can overcome any perceived difficulties, such as a lack of money. This concept is echoed in the 23 ‘Good Rider Profiles’ Emerson includes, where top athletes from nearly every equestrian discipline share their history, tips and experiences. Bottom line: This unique book provides aspiring top-level riders as close to a blueprint for success as we’ve ever seen. It’s enjoyable and thought-provoking, as Emerson shares his wisdom."
Elizabeth Letts, Author of New York Times Bestseller THE EIGHTY-DOLLAR CHAMPION, says:
"Like all really great competitors, Denny Emerson knows how to ride. Like all really great teachers, he knows how to teach...Like all truly great teachers, Denny has something to say to all of us: even those of us who no longer compete. In my adult career as an author, I still rely on many of the skills I learned while competing in three-day-eventing. Both require focus, determination, and a willingness to take a hard fall sometimes. Both require bravery– a person who has approached an enormous solid fence made of telephone poles at a fast gallop down a slippery hill, is well-equipped to face down the public scrutiny of being a writer in a world where everyone has a chance to review and comment on your books. As Denny says in the book, 'The only thing that each of us can guarantee is that we are prepared to take advantage of those opportunities that come our way.'”
Jim Wofford, Eventing Training and Three-Time Olympian, says:
"There are hundreds of books that can tell you how to ride. Now, Denny
Emerson has produced a book that tells you how to excel. Written in his own inimitable style, Denny discusses the key elements of real success in
competition. If you are serious about improving your riding, this is the
book for you."