Its been a while since I posted. Some of you may remember my foolishness in getting an untrained Peruvian, Nubarron, who was a bit hotter than my sensible Rockies. Well we have been progressing. There was a while when he "pounded nails" with his front feet so hard it would jolt the fillings right out of your teeth. I have been working on flexibility and softening to the bit etc etc. I had a couple of mini easy trail rides, and one day I felt a change, and believed he was ready for a proper trail ride. Well this weekend we drove down to Otter Creek in upstate NY. For those unfamiliar with the place, it is an unbelievable series of riding trails, from sandy flats to REALLY steep climbs - something for every level...and NO (well almost no)BUGS.
As of today I have bestowed the title of "trail horse second class with distinction". We coped with puddles, minor mud, low flying aircraft (air show near by I think), quite steep and stoney ups and downs where he carefully placed his feet without rushing, deer (he grew 3 inches, but didn't move), brush against his legs, and large, but smooth logs on the trails. A C- in slalom through trees - I didn't give him a D as he didn't bolt when I screeched in pain when my knee clonked against a tree, and a B+ for stand still while I mounted from trail cuts and stumps. All in all not bad for a green pony. And his gaiting...it was soooo smooth - beyond what I had ever hoped for. I am going to need horse liniment to treat my grin muscles!!!!!
Next year he should be ready for trail horse first class - there are bridges, deep water crossings, Very steep ups and downs and a few other things we will need to try first. Just had to share.
Hope every one and their 4 legged companions are doing well and are having a good summer.
Cheers
Sallyjavalon