Ian Francis Awarded Order of Australia

Congratulations to legendary Aussie horseman, Ian Francis, who has been awarded an Order of Australia Medal for services to the equine industry as a competitor, breeder and trainer in the 2011 Australia Day Honours list.

Council of the Order of Australia chairman, Professor John Hay, said the awards were a public recognition of people committed to community service.

“These awards also recognise the ‘quiet achievers’ in our midst. They are people who serve the community, but do not seek accolades,’’ Prof Hay said.

Ian Francis is often described as one of the best horseman in the world. He has trained more horses and received more awards in more events than any other horseman in the country.  Experience, dedication and talent have been the reason for Ian's phenomenal success over the years.  He has taken clients' horses to wins in many diverse events, everything from cutting and reining to stockman's challenges and western pleasure.  An AQHA and NCHA Hall of Famer, it would be impossible to find a horseman who has had success in such a wide range of events.

"Nobody in the world puts a better foundation on a horse than Ian Francis" says Clinton Anderson - an Australian trainer who is currently one of the most sort after clinicians in the USA.

Ian is currently busy conducting his Horsemanship Clinics across Australia, which focus on building a foundation in a horse that promotes confidence, consistency and longevity.  For clinic attendees Ian demonstrates the structures, techniques and ideas that have made him not only a leading force in the competitive world, but also a highly respected horseman.  Ian's teachings encourage better communication between horse and rider through feel, timing, balance and consistency and can be applied to horses of all disciplines - leisure and performance - and levels.

We salute Ian's achievements and service to the equestrian community and are proud that his dedication has been recognised with an Order of Australia medal.

CLICK HERE to visit Ian's Facebook page and HERE to visit his website, which includes dates of upcoming clinics.