Saturday, January 9, 2016

Eligible Bachelor #1

My BO and I went up Friday night to look at potential pony. My trainer wasn't able to make it, but I'd like to think that I'm capable of doing a first ride and figuring out if it's worth coming back for a second try.

PB is a 9yr old 15.1 hand appendix QH. He's been used as a lesson horse for the past few years. He seems like a solid citizen; knows his job, goes along quietly enough but could use a little polishing up.


The girl who rode him mostly left him alone and he just bopped along. Cute trot, nice rhythmic canter, nothing super fancy but cute and steady. She didn't ask him for much flexion or lateral work. She popped him over a few fences and he looked cute and seemed happy to jump from either the short or long spot. 
 I got on and just let him go around for a few minutes before I started asking for more. He's pretty stiff left, and likes to go with his nose poked out but was willing to drop his head and round up when asked. I took him over a few fences, probably only 2' but he waited to fence when asked and easily took the long spot when I couldn't see the distance. 

The main thing I loved about him was that he felt SAFE. I never felt like he was going to take off, he never got strong or bold, and I felt comfortable on him. 

We've asked about a trial, and are waiting to hear back. I know I need to look at other ponies (and rode eligible bachelor #2 today) but PB's a strong candidate. But part of me is worried that the reason I like him so much is just that I finally felt comfortable on a horse again, and it's not just him. Guess we'll just have to wait and see.

8 comments:

  1. Exciting! I would just make sure you try a few to make sure you're making the right choice :)

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  2. Agree with Hillary, of i were you I'd try to sit on as many as possible. I'm saying that having your first try go so well really sets the standard for the others so makes trying them easier imo as you have something solid to compare the other rides too

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  3. Try as many as possible. It's good experience even if he ends up being "the one." Have fun!

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  4. Try as many as possible. It's good experience even if he ends up being "the one." Have fun!

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  5. Sounds like a great candidate, definitely do not go against your gut instincts :)

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  6. aw he has a sweet expression! good luck with the trial and looking at other potential candidates too :)

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  7. There is a LOT to be said about feeling safe and comfortable on a horse. Don't discount that, even a little - it's so much better than having a fancy, talented horse that you *don't* feel safe on. Also, PB is super cute! :)

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