Our Story
Coaching, saddle fitting and saddlery work.
For over 20 years Seija Parkkali-Glew has been involved in equestrian pursuits - as a successful competitive rider through pony club (NZPCA 'A' riding certificate) and ESNZ eventing and dressage, A & P showing, training horses and coaching. Seija now focuses on dressage and takes pride in competing self-trained horses. She is experienced in re-starting and correcting horses that have developed training problems.
After completing a Masters Degree in biochemistry at the University of Canterbury Seija made a career change - accepting the offer of an apprenticeship under Nathan Clarke, a second-generation saddler. Seija spent a number of busy years at Clarke Mckenzie Saddlery as saddle fitter and saddler, regularly travelling throughout the South Island to hold saddle-fitting clinics.
Her acute awareness that fitting a saddle is never an isolated process led to starting up On Top Equestrian. There are many factors contributing to a well-fitting saddle and a happy horse. Along with saddle fitting goes coaching to improve rider position, balance and effectiveness, and the correct training of the horse and its way of going. Consideration of weight, fitness, hoof care, teeth and muscular-skeletal health are important. Seija can advise on these and recommend relevant industry professionals to help improve the entire well-being and performance of your horse.
Seija is a specialist saddle fitter, repairer and modifier of the following brands; Fenmore Saddles of Distinction, Pessoa, Trainers, Prestige Italia, Bates and Wintec saddles.
