Adaptive Development EQ

Euki is exceptional. She has a natural feel for the horse, a great seat, a strong work ethic, and dedication to her craft. Her knack for teaching young horses how to use their bodies more efficiently and talent detecting structural weaknesses before they became a problem meant I ended up putting her on some of the best horses I’ve trained. She got along with everything from my sensitive fillies to my toughest colts, and helped manage my strings at times when I had to split them up. She then went on to become a professional jockey. None of that is easy to do! Not only has Euki proven herself to be a gifted horsewoman both on and off the ground, in all the years I’ve known her, she’s always put the horse first and I’m proud of her for that.

Being able to call Euki Binns a friend for more than twenty plus years has been a true pleasure, and a blessing. Upon meeting her in barn 33 on the historic backstretch of Churchill Downs, I knew she was a very special horsewoman. Euki taught me many things about these young, valuable horses. From tacking them up, to understanding legs and liniments, nothing was overlooked while teaching me the numerous details involved in keeping these precocious equine athletes healthy and happy. Her communication skills with the horses, co-workers, and clients, always seemed to come easy to Euki. She was sensitive, yet tough when needed. Naturally instinctive, all heart, and a picture of grace on horseback. It was always about the horse for Euki. Without them, who were we? Euki was beyond valuable to me in my journey and ascension within the Thoroughbred industry. Many lessons learned, and wonderful memories of my friend and teacher. I’ll just leave this right here: you’ll be lucky to have her working with you – she is elite.

Euki came to me to learn to be a jockey but, honestly, I think I may have learned more from her than she learned from me! As the second-leading female jockey (by money earned) in the United States I knew a thing or two about getting horses to want to run fast for you. I may have taught Euki some tricks about getting a horse out of the starting gate faster or switching a crop from the right hand to the left hand and back again in 4 strides, but she taught me so much about getting a horse to carry itself better by using leg and weight cues, and the effectiveness of confidence-building in a young horse through balance and connection alone. She’s a remarkably well rounded horsewoman with so much knowledge and a gift for turning a concept into articulated language that helps you to just suddenly “get it”.  

Euki Binns is easily the most qualified trainer I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with. I hired her because my mare Clementine was sore and failing to thrive, and I immediately found her to be an extraordinary horsewoman. I have learned more from her in a matter of a few months than I have from anyone else, ever, in my life. By learning best practices toward considering the needs and well being of my own horse, I am also learning the exquisite craft of horsemanship. We are about four months along in our process of restoring Clementine’s health from the inside out: ongoing and exacting nutritional analysis, hoof repair and rehabilitation, and improved musculature and outward body changes through positive and appropriate training. Even Clem’s demeanor is improved as she is no longer in pain! Euki listens carefully to her client’s concerns and applies her prodigious knowledge and experience, remarkable natural instincts and curious mind toward long-term solutions for both the horse and the rider. Every consideration is made from a whole-horse, holistic approach. I truly believe that to have access to a trainer of her caliber, expertise, talent and enthusiasm, is a godsend for anyone who wants the best out of their horse. Euki has deeply changed the way I think about horsemanship, and quite possibly saved Clem’s life in the process. I am so grateful to her for that.

Euki is truly amazing in so many ways! Max is learning in an unprecedented manner – all while seemingly doing “very little.” It is astounding! Max came to me with a high-strung personality (think ulcers). Relaxation did not come easily and made correct dressage work difficult. Cavalletti were scary; forget about jumps! He finally learned to relax on trails. I believe he was pushed too far too young due to his natural abilities. This led to some mental and physical issues resulting in poor quality upper level movements. With Euki, a lovely progression is unfolding based on the art of classical horsemanship! Max is RELAXED, happy, and thriving (no small feat!) and in the midst of a miraculous transformation: he now loves his work and is eager to train! Who knew this was possible!? Pure joy! I’ve been around horses most of my life but Euki continues to expand my knowledge. I have already learned so much from her; and she is a true delight to be around. The horses love Euki’s energy, too! Euki is helping me refine my riding skills, improve my ability to read a horse, and further develop my sense of feel. Since working with Euki, I am watching the art described by Classical Masters manifest before my eyes!  It is truly a pleasure to work with someone who is so skillfully steeped in the classical, and who considers all aspects of the horse (body, mind and spirit) as an active part of training. Euki is passionate about the art, has a tremendously solid and broad foundation, and she finds absolute joy in helping horse and rider while sharing her considerable experience, knowledge and insights! I have never met anyone like her! Max and I are blessed; we feel like we are learning from a true Classical Master!

While I didn’t know exactly what to expect when I enlisted Euki Binns to treat my horse, I knew that after two colics a month apart, my horse needed expertise to help him recover and prosper. With no medical diagnosis found as to the cause of his impactions, turning to his nutrition seemed crucial. Just seven weeks out of the ICU now, my horse is gaining weight and has come back to light work with a bright and eager attitude. Euki’s individualized, nutritional analysis has given me precise guidance. Her tender encouragement has given me the optimism to approach my horse every day with a shining attitude. I have the assurance now that he is getting the best care possible to help him through convalescence and rehabilitation. As a horsewoman with a lifetime of vast experience, Euki gives me confidence by sharing the science and research behind the suggestions she makes, teaching me more about equine nutrition than I had ever imagined. In every situation, she educates and explains the rationale behind her recommendations and she delights in sharing her knowledge. Her rehab and health plans are giving my horse his chance at a quality life. I think Euki falls in love with every horse she treats because his welfare is first and foremost in her mind and the many ways she goes over and above what is required, is astounding. She really wants my horse to thrive! I so highly recommend Euki’s expertise in the rehab and health of your horses.