An interview with Cowboy Dressage founder Eitan Beth-Halachmy

Several years ago I had the privilege of writing the story of Cowboy Dressage and its founders, Eitan and Debbie Beth-Halachmy. During a brief visit in June, we talked about preparing blog posts that featured question-and-answer sessions. It’s taken a while, but here is the first, my interview with Eitan.

It is with great sadness that I report the passing of Eitan on July 22, 2025. He was an incredibly intelligent person and a talented horseman. He put enormous effort into sharing his knowledge with others, and the result was Cowboy Dressage and its offshoot, Western Dressage. The horse world was changed because of him and his wife Debbie.

I’ve updated this blog post to make it easier to navigate, and added a video worth viewing. I only wish I had made time for a second interview.

(You can buy a digital copy of our book here: Cowboy Dressage: Riding, Training, and Competing with Kindness as the Goal and Guiding Principle)

(Next in the series: an Interview with Debbie Beth-Halachmy.)

The evolution of Cowboy Dressage

Cowboy Dressage was the brainchild of Eitan and Debbie. The term Cowboy Dressage arose in response to Eitan’s showy victory passes with Holiday Compadre. (Maybe we should attribute the discipline to Compadre too!. You can watch Eitan put Compadre through his paces after winning World Western Pleasure Champion at the 1993 Morgan Grand National Show in the video below.

Above: Holiday Compadre and Eitan in Oklahoma in 1993.

Our interview began with a reflection on how the discipline had been evolving in recent years.

Q: What are some of the ways Cowboy Dressage has improved in the six or so years since we wrote a book together?

Growth and Improvement in Judging, refinement of rules and definitions. We’ve added a media consultant so we can reach more people on the internet. A new and more up to date website. Virtual Cowboy Dressage Shows. New Educational Online Program.

Q: Are there any changes that you wish hadn’t happened?

Covid and Lockdowns (Amen!)

Q: What are some things you would like to see happen in CD over the next few years?

Development of regions and more local showing. More growth.

Q: What about you personally? How has your involvement with CD changed?

I still am very active in the educational and test development  part, but Debbie and Lyn are pretty much running the business part now.

Sharing his knowledge

Tell us about your blog.

It’s actually not a blog but just an educational webpage: Eitan’s Online Educational Horsemanship Program

Q: What do you write about?

All things related to horse education, concepts, schools of thought. Mostly what horses have taught me over the many years that they have been the center of my life. I do all my own videos and graphics, diagrams etc. Lots of work. I don’t ride as much so this is my “art” now.

Q: What kinds of things do people typically ask you?

Usually there are few questions but when there are they are for clarifications.

Q: Is there anything you would like to do with your blog that you aren’t already doing?

More videos. My mind is like a clock. It is constantly creating so you never know what you may find on my Educational page.

On COVID

Eitan and I did this interview during the epidemic. What’s interesting is that Cowboy Dressage has continued holding virtual shows.

Q: How has COVID-19 affected CD?

It slowed the actual horse show part down but we developed virtual shows that are a big hit. Judging by the entries in the virtual show Cowboy Dressage is still going strong in spite of COVID.

Q: I have noticed that CD offers virtual events in response to COVID-19. What are some of the advantages of these?

It is a big saving financially for folks, especially during these difficult times. People who could not travel to a show can now participate. Those that could only bring one horse to a live show can now show multiple horses virtually. People are still gathering to film and support during filming. The virtual shows also help the professionals stay viable with added revenue.

Disadvantages?

The personal contact and sharing that the shows offer are greatly missed.

Accomplishments and challenges

Q: Looking back over the years of creating and sharing CD, what do you consider your greatest successes?

Enduring the birthing process of a new discipline. Sticking  to my original vision and not selling out to the horses or riders. Not an easy road but a one well worth the travel.

Q: What was one of the most difficult things you had to do?

Aging…..my mind is still a  young horseman but my body reminds me that I can no do what I used to do. I think that is why I love my Educational Page so much. It keeps me in the virtual saddle.

Q: Is there anything you regret?

Smoking.

Q: What would you tell someone who wants to start their own unique horse discipline?

You must have a clear vision. You must stay on your path. Surround yourself with like-minded fearless people. And never ever give up.

Horses!

Q: I know you are still riding! Would you like to tell us something about your current horses?

I am very fortunate to have a son of Holiday Compadre here that is very much like his sire. Very charismatic and handsome. He is a palomino to boot! I am starting him in the two rein which I think he will excel at. Excited about him as he has brought me full circle. I also have a golden Saddlebred gelding that I have been riding for many years. He is quite advanced and schoolmaster for my schools when we have them. I also ride my wife’s quarter/arab mare that is just 4 so I had to go back to my young horse training. At 80 it is quite a challenge at times. All 3 of these horses have made me proud. Nice horses and a pleasure to ride.

Living the dream

Q: Is there anything else you would like to share with us?

I came to this country to live a dream. I am living it.

Cowboy Dressage Facebook Educational Page

FAQ: Eitan Beth-Halachmy

Who was Eitan Beth-Halachmy?

Eitan Beth-Halachmy (1944–2025) was an internationally known horseman and the founder of Cowboy Dressage. He was widely recognized for his partnership with the Morgan stallions Holiday Compadre and Santa Fe Renegade, and for promoting kindness, soft feel, and harmony in horsemanship.

What is Cowboy Dressage?

Cowboy Dressage is a horsemanship discipline created by Eitan and Debbie Beth-Halachmy that blends classical dressage principles with western tack and traditions. It emphasizes soft feel, harmony, and clear communication between horse and rider, and is organized worldwide through Cowboy Dressage World events and education.

How is Cowboy Dressage different from Western Dressage?

Both started with Eitan Beth-Halachmy and Holiday Compadre, supported by Eitan’s wife Debbie. After some years, Western Dressage splintered off to meet different demands.

Both apply dressage principles in western tack. Cowboy Dressage is a distinct program stewarded by Cowboy Dressage World with its own court, tests, and “soft feel” ethos. Western Dressage is a competitive discipline governed by national organizations (USEF) and breed affiliates, which means that it is offered at breed shows. Many riders cross-train in both.

When did Eitan Beth-Halachmy pass away?

He passed away on July 22, 2025.

What horses is he most associated with?

He is best known for the Morgan stallion Holiday Compadre, with whom he performed memorable exhibitions and World Championship show rides that helped spark interest in Cowboy Dressage. Santa Fe Renegade became his next partner and travelled all over the world with him. His last partner was the beautiful Saddlebred gelding Cheyenne.

Where can I learn Cowboy Dressage online?

Start with the Cowboy Dressage World website for rules, tests, and upcoming events, and Eitan’s Educational page for articles and videos on soft feel, balance, and communication.

Can English riders or non-western breeds participate?

Yes. Cowboy Dressage is about partnership and correct basics; riders from various backgrounds and many breeds participate successfully. The saddle must be western (have a horn).