Galloping ahead

Michaels believes basic education is vital for China's rapidly growing equestrian scene.

The passion for horses Michaels has seen in China has impressed him.

"There is a Chinese lady, who is very sweet. I don't know her profession. She is so keen to learn. Everything I say, she tries and tries so hard. She improved dramatically after a few sessions," he says.

The schedule for Michaels' China trips is always tight.

"I feel busy all the time when I am in Beijing, but it's enjoyable," he says.

Liu Xiao, a Chinese horse enthusiast from the club, managed to get hold of a ticket to one of Michaels' lectures.

"I had heard about Jeremy and I hoped he could take a look at the horse," he says.

With just a few sounds from Michaels, Liu's 7-year-old horse Warmblood started to follow the British trainer's commands.

"The way that horse is walking is not normal," he says. "I need to be sure that the horse is not suffering any pain or physical problems, before we carry on with further training."

He helped him find a veterinarian before moving on to the next appointment.

"Jeremy is right," says Liu. "He is the type of coach who doesn't just care about skills, but also cares about the horses."