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The Heggelunds have been training horses for a combined 40-plus years. “We made the move to California in 2006, mostly because the economy is better and the weather is always nice,” Van Heggelund explains. “Clarissa and I were sick of shoveling snow!” He took over Heggelund Training from his well-known equestrian father Al Heggelund in 1978. Clarissa joined the team in 2001. Together they have developed a program that works for both horse and rider.

“Our goal is to develop horses that want to work: horses that will accept the different challenges we ask of them and trust our decisions,” Heggelund explains. “You have invested a lot in your horse. We offer practical, proven training development for your horse and are confident that you will be satisfied with the results. We developed this program because we knew there was a better way. The horse, in his own world, is very successful. It’s our job to introduce this magnificent animal into our world. We stress trust, personal space and understanding. We assess each horse daily to determine how its training should be modified. Our motto is, ‘Don’t make the horse fit the program, make the program fit the horse.’ We are proud of the success achieved through our personalized care and training program.

“We specialize in starting young horses with a solid foundation,” the trainer continues. “We also accept behavioral problem horses. We can help you figure out the problem and make the horse more comfortable in his world. More than likely he will return the favor.” Clarissa Heggelund adds, “There is nothing like getting a horse into training that can’t even lead on the line, but after two weeks of trust drills and learning about the particular horse and what he needs to be successful, we work into riding and training. It is an amazing feeling to be the first one on such a powerful animal, and when they take that first step off, trusting my decision about it, it starts a long term relationship between horse and rider.” The Heggelunds have started horses for local veterinarian Dr. Lynda Byers, and well-known horsewoman Sandy Aston.

New to the show team as of 2009 is Honey Dog. Although not currently in the saddle, she is great horse assistant. The Heggelunds have shown at local and national levels in western pleasure, hunter/jumper and dressage. Through their training program they can take a horse and start the horse with a solid foundation for any discipline. They have worked with Quarter Horses, Warmbloods, Thoroughbreds, Arabians and Gypsies, among many other breeds. “Every horse and breed is different, but we have the same goal for all of them,” Clarissa Heggelund states. “We want them to be strong, respectful and willing to do their job. No matter what breed or discipline every horse should have the same outcome, just happy to be there and willing to be one with the handler.” The Heggelunds strive hard to make a communication clear with both the horse and the rider.

As of 2009 the Heggelunds had a great show year. Clarissa Heggelund was the Del Mar National Hunter Hack circuit champion, PVRA Year-End Champion in Western Pleasure and Hunter Under Saddle Open, SCPHA Year-End Green Horse Champion. Client Christina Campbell was the Youth Halter Horse Champion with Reward Me Im Hot. Shelby North and Swingin Soul were the PVRA 13-17 Youth Reserved Champion of the Year and the Del Mar Nationals Horsemanship Challenge winner. The Heggelunds have youth and adult amateurs competing at all levels and are happy to assist all with their equine needs.

Clarissa Heggelund started out as an active participant in 4H, Future Farmers of America, rodeos and horse shows. Today she continues her commitment to helping youth develop their potential for leadership, personal growth and success in agricultural careers. Clarissa holds various allaround titles in 4H and FFA as well as AQHYA high points. In New Mexico, she was state 4H Queen, state champion in 4H Hippology and horse judging. She holds a Bachelors Degree in Agricultural Sales and Services, with an emphasis in Equine Science from Dickinson State University in North Dakota.

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HEGGELUND HORSE TRAINING
vanheggelund@yahoo.com - 760-705-7257
P.O.Box 1628
29753 Valley Center Road
Valley Center, California 92082