Head shaking...the Answers

Having established in my mind that Heather was a head shaker, I now needed answers. One Google search brought me to this very useful information.

I read the symptoms listed and ticked every single box. The description of the horse acting as though it had a bee up its nose was so accurate. Like having a light at the end of a tunnel, I was satisfied and somewhat pleased to have found the answer.

I was also quite excited at the prospect of putting some of the information given on the Lincoln site, to the test. Strangely I was now looking forward to riding in the rain. We did...and what a difference! No head shaking. She was more responsive, forward and obviously much happier. Though without the distraction of her affliction, she was now quite spooky, suddenly having realised that there's a world beyond her nose! Waking up to her surroundings.

Next, I bought her a full nose/mouth net, which attatches to the nose band on her bridle. Took me a week or so of feeding her out of this net, before I could get her to wear it without too much protest. The down side of the net is that it makes her look like some sort of equine "Hannibal Lecter". Quite a few people commented on her "muzzle guard". So I didn't disappoint and confirmed that she has a taste for small children!

Aside from the aestetics of the net, the proof was in the riding. A little worryingly, she did snort and blow at walk and standstill. But this was different and I think due to her whiskers touching the net. Once trotting and cantering, especially in her worst places for shaking, along a wooded track, she was fine. No disturbance. A real milestone passed.

In my hopes, I could now see a way of breaking the viscious circle that she was caught in. If I could ride her like this regularly with no shaking, I had a chance of getting her fit. So if she's fit, she will be more able to work, and work happily! The head shaking only becomes apparent when she is working in trot or harder. One idea is that the increased blood pressure over sensitises nerves in the nose. Possibly aggravated by more air rushing past these "itchy" nerves at faster paces. She has learned a fantastic defence against all this. She naps, she plants her feet! No movement, no irritation in her nose. Rider gets fed up eventually and she gets to stand in the field again.

The only drawback of the net, is that after an hours hacking. The net is full of all the little odd things that a horse amasses in its head and snorts out. Usually unseen. Caught in a net, they make quite an ugly collection.

Snowdon Marathon 2007

Yesterday, my brother Jim, ground out a gutsy and almighty effort to conquer the nemesis that is the Snowdon Marathon. This event lives up to its reputation of being both the most beautiful, but also most challenging of all road marathons held in this country.

Jim told me back in June, that he was going to train for this, with some colleagues from the British Mountaineering Council. I know the lonely hard miles needed to train for such an event only to well. Back in the 80s when marathon running became a fashion, I completed two in quick succession. Strangely I had been thinking about doing another only last year. So I was tempted. I also remember the agony and pain involved in the actual run...

So gladly went along yesterday to give whatever support I could. As soon as we arrived at Llanberis the place was alive with people limbering up, stretching. Some looking like it was an everday event, others looking like lost sheep, new boy at school. All sorts of shapes and sizes, men and women. Fascinating to watch. All the time, I knew deep inside that I should be getting ready, not to watch, but to run. I'm made for this kind of thing. Instead it's Jim who's got the running shoes on.

Kirstine, Jim's girlfriend, and me walked the couple of miles up to see the start at Nant Peris. I was surprised at how many...over 1500, competitors there were. The sharp chiselled athletes at the front like greyhounds....then a good couple of minutes to the everday guy, like Jim!

Drove round to the other side of Snowdon and parked at Rhyd Ddu. Within a short while, the low cloud turned to light rain. Then the wind picked up. It got really miserable. We stood and I clapped as Kirstine cheered runners on for what seemed like hours. Taking turns to get in the car and warm up. Some of the runners were congratulating us on our effort! This was about the 16 mile point. Andy, then a while later Tina passed. No Jim. Began to be a little concerned. Eventually, a wet, bedraggled character loomed out of the mist. Befriended by a guy wearing a Scooby-Doo suit! Re-supplied and with 'Stines waterproof top on, off he went.

We drove round the other way and parked up halfway along the last and final climb to Waun Fawr. Still raining, still blowing. What a horrible day to be in the hills, let alone running 26 miles! Caught Jim and Scooby, still together and grimacing. I knew it was still tough going, but they were now at 21 miles, sure to finish.

They did...still together, they'd kept each other going in the true spirit that brings total strangers together to perform what to most of us are superhuman achievments. Congratulations to everyone who attempted that race, especially those who were on the course longest! Jim thoroughly deserved his sports massage at the end, getting the attention of not one but both masseurs.

I am re-inspired and will give it some serious thought for next year. Really, my minds made up.

Fitter, Stronger, Faster...

After last nights lesson success, there's no way that we're going to school today. A nice hack for both of us, with perhaps a little test or two along the way to keep things interesting. Sometimes wonder if she isn't thinking the same thing...

One thing I do want to work on though is her one sided-ness. Which became even more evident in last nights lesson. She finds it very difficult to canter on the right rein. Her trot is also very stiff on this side.

Soon crossing the green bridge, always a nervy place. We turned right to head towards Kickety Brook. My plan was to take her round the route clockwise. Split from the loop and take her up to TGI Fridays bridge, then back homeward along the banks. Then instead of home, head round the Banky Meadow route. So plenty of potential sticking points.

Her attitude and willing could hardly be faulted.She was eager and mostly had ears pricked and legs striding forward. We had plenty of canter attempts. However out of at least the ten I counted only one correct lead picked up on her right. Not very good. I was giving the clearest aids, even a little flick on her near hind quarter as I asked. Most times I pulled her back and asked again. Though considering where we were just a short while ago. Just to have her cantering willingly in a direction away from home is still some achievment.

She hardly noticed when we left the loop and headed up towards Fridays. Within seconds we were rocketing along the banks. Pulled her back..asked again..wrong leg!!! Never mind, this is fun..lets goooo!! Her fitness is so much better. She just flies along...so smoothly. There's a Heron standing on the bank further up. Takes off and flies above, landing back in the same spot after we've passed. Not that I'm looking backwards at this point. I have to pull her up, or else we join the Manchester bound A56!

Same on the return. She doesn't need asking twice. In fact for the first time ever I have a little trouble slowing her. I took her off the banks and into a scary little wood that runs parallel. So by the time we came back onto the banks, we'd both had a chance to settle.

Back over the green bridge and the big test. My readiness for a struggle was wasted. She put her feet in toffee for a few strides, but nothing firm leg applied couldn't overcome. So off towards Banky Meadow..away from home again. This horse is coming on in leaps and bounds. I'm so pleased with her. So pleased with myself, because I really have done the donkey work. I've put my trust in her and at last it's all starting to really come together.

She needs a clip. A year ago we were standing still and never worked up more than me being red faced! With all this cantering and fun, she sweats up quickly. So we walked the rest of the way. A chance to enjoy being out in the Autumn air on horseback. I love that gentle rythm of a horses walk, when there's no fighting or pushing on. Some of the leaves have fallen and there are berries ripe for the birds. Squirrels toing and froing, far too busy to be bothered by us and some of the leaves have finally turned colour. Back home, I towel her dry..with some initial objection, which gives way to a blissful lip quiver! Turned her out and she stayed at the gate...silly mare. What a great day.

Another Good Horse Day...

I need to write while this is all so fresh...I've been looking forward to today since last Thursday..a week!

Mel has been taking lessons with Ange through the Summer. She's really coming on as a rider. I know how it is in these earlier days. Barely getting one lesson a week, it's difficult sometimes to feel you're progressing. But Mel has done so and now really has to only keep going. She's got the basics and now like me, just has to keep putting in the effort and polishing everything up.

A grey Autumn day...but perfect for riding. No wind..no rain, bit chilly, but not cold! Mel started her lesson on Flossie. In the meantime I got Heather ready. The idea being for me to escort Mel on her first hack from the yard after her lesson with Ange. Took H into the indoor and warmed her up. My first time on in four days. No big fight needed today. She's got the wind in her sails...perfect. Unfortunately, after her lesson, Flossie has come up with her old injury to her back and a never healing sore. Poor horse really needs a Mummy or Daddy..she's not on loan at the moment. So doesn't get the pampering needed to sometimes ease the life of one of the schools more used horses.

For a few brief moments I think we're sunk. Then Ange suggests Mel rides Wilma out. Before I can blink, Mel is alongside me onboard. H is happy to lead off the yard..almost eager and we're on our way! With only half an hour we go down towards the canter field. I can't believe how comfortable Mel is on a horse she's never been on before and riding out for the first time. As we turn for home, after some walk and trot, it's Mel who asks if we can canter!! All goes so smoothly and Mel looks so comfortable and happy. This has been a great morning...

In tonights lesson, I'm back on Heather for the first time in three weeks. If she hasn't wasted too much energy in the field during the day, I know she'll go well. She doesn't disappoint. Yes I wear my little short plastic spurs, but she doesn't fight. Goes off the leg and makes an effort. She's got energy and even makes a reasonable attempt at leg yielding. I have been practising on the way home on hacks! She canters without question on the left rein. However she still doesn't like the right rein. Must keep working on this side. Oh, thought it was a lesson for me...In a way it was. As much as learning from a good schoolmaster is valuable. Riding a lesser accomplished horse and getting results, no matter how small, is so rewarding. This is riding...and I'm so proud to be able to think that I've earned that title. I think everyone enjoyed their lesson tonight. Felt so good to take part. Can't wait till tomorrow to ride again!!

More Head Shaking....

I Wanted Heather to have every chance to do well. I'd already realised that the hand-me down saddle from the school did not fit her. Though it was nice and light.

She has very high withers. Took me several visits to a tack shop across Manchester to find something. I brought five or six saddles back each time and none were anywhere near. Lastly, in the shop was shown one, an old GP, I was told modelled on a police saddle. I knew instantly it would fit, as though made for her. English leather locally made, but on the heavy side. Turns out to be every bit as comfortable as confidence giving. Needed a few repairs, but before long had it on her back. All this, remembering, I'm new to horses, let alone saddle fitting. So I sought out all the information and opinions I could. What a way to learn!

Riding wise, things were not going at all well. I was having to lead her out down the lane and beyond in hand. Then I'd hop on and ride home. Still she was head shaking...As though she was trying to throw the bit out of her mouth. I found it all quite frightening, as a couple of times she nearly over-balanced and fell, the shaking was so violent.

Her teeth were checked and yes they were sharp. Another possibility. Though I missed the visit, the dentist came and spent a while with her. So I was hopefull of an improvement.

As much as an excercise in learning about tack, I put together a new bridle for her. Again, her school bridle was a bit strung together and the browband was definately too tight. Could this be contributing to her discomfort? But despite my new tack, the head shaking continued...

Coming into the New Year, 2007, I had some excellent help at the yard, getting over Heathers napping. Plus stopping her new evasion...bucking!

Slowly, but surely I was able to push her on, predict her napping. Take her out further and for longer. Always though, trying to ask some question of her. Never letting her, or me, settle into complacency. Still plagued by this head shaking! I never did get off because of it, but I was so close. Sometimes it felt as though she was a split second from bolting. Shaking, twitching and stamping, paying me no attention. I really was frightened.

Around Easter I started to read up and find out specifically about head shaking in horses.

Head shaking and Hard Work..

In June 2006, I accepted Heather on loan as a replacement for Billy, who was long term lame.
My decision was swayed by someone else doting over her and thinking of taking her. I had first refusal and didn't want to lose out. So I took her on.

I knew virtually nothing about her. I was warned that she was top mare in the field and could be difficult. Now with hindsight I can certainly wholeheartedly agree! But smaller in stature to the boisterous Billy, I thought I could handle her easily enough. She is also quite an attractive looking mare...especially when she puts her ears forward.

Under saddle, one thing became quickly apparent. Heathers head was very rarely still. Always blowing and snorting too! Her head often thrashing alarmingly in just about any direction. She would sometimes just snatch suddenly and violently at the reins. Other disturbing traits were a constant swishing of her tail and an all over body twitch. As though she was wired to the mains and sometimes I was convinced she was about to explode!

I asked advice and was told some of it might be down to her lack of fitness. Possible, as she'd been out of work and turned away for quite while. Flies also really bothered her and it was pointed out that perhaps my hands were too "busy". I don't know what the weight of a horses head and neck are, but I challenge the best rider to keep their hands still, with all that thrashing around on the end of the reins! I listened and took onboard what I agreed with and started to do some of my own research.


She's been called the "witch" or the "beast". Labelled as lazy and stubborn. That she's "taking the mick" and "trying it on". After a short honeymoon period when she went quite well. She soon started her way of napping. By planting feet!

In October last year we'd got to a horrible state of not being able to leave the yard. Nor would she budge an inch in the school, without someone else dragging her for me! Even though this was eroding my confidence and questioning my worth as a rider. I'd already decided there must be reasons for all this. What is wrong with this horse? I really did feel like ditching her sometimes. But the brief memory of some nice rides through the Summer, spurred me on to take on this challenge.

Fantastic Horse, Brilliant Day..

Last night after my paddling exploits, took Heather out on a lovely short sunset hack. Back on the yard, bumped into Claire. Arranged to meet up and look for adventure!!What a brilliant day to go out! This Autumn weather is so good. So after a chilly start, it's tee shirts and if I wasn't riding, I'd be thinking of putting shorts on. After a short chat, we both agreed on trying to reach Chorlton Waterpark. Has been my long-term goal for this Summer, really only thwarted by lameness and headshaking. Good enough reasons, I suppose! This is going to be a long ride, about 17kms round trip. Taking both Heather and Garfield into unknown territory.
Within a short time a pattern of riding emerged. For whatever reason, Heather is so difficult to ride in company. She will really hold back and not be pushed to the front to lead. Unfortunately Garfield, the "bomber", is uncertain and will not cross horse styals or the green bridge. So a compromise sees Claire and me, leap-frogging at the appropriate places, these two odd horses. When we get to something to scary for Garfield, I push Heather, he follows. Then once passed, he goes in front. I did read somewhere that an Alpha mare, as she is, would naturally lead the herd from further back, pushing the others on...instead of asking them to follow. Maybe this is what is happening with her.

However we made steady progress, overcoming the long tunnel, short tunnels, all manner of bridges. Including the wooden bridge at Chorlton Waterpark, where there are gaps in the beams where the neds can look through at the river below! We took the advise on the sign and lead...not easily across. Even brave H took a distinct distrust to such a precarious looking and sounding construction.

We found two long sections of lower bank, where the ground and turf were perfect. We enjoyed probably the best cantering conditions I've had. Perfect, blue sky, willing horse bowling along effortlessly on a lovely surface. This was my longest, most memorable ride to date and I'm really buzzing. Again we had to do a staggered start. Garfields little legs are no match for Heathers all out long canter stride, but he gets too excited being overtaken. So at each canter I let Claire go ahead, whilst trying to hold H back a while. It's all I can do to keep her from galloping! But again we manage and I've just kept her short of breathing too hard as we get to the end.

This has been a perfect ride and makes all the hard work I've done in the last year, worthwhile. This is my dream!! I'm livin' it....

River Dee Paddle from Sandy Lane

Far too long has my boat sat idle in Jim's garage. Since my increased equine interests, the one activity most affected has been kayaking. Resulting in an under used boat with a dry bottom.

My original plan was to drive up to the Lakes and paddle on Lake Windermere. But watching last nights weather on the BBC, showed cloud for Northern England. I was really hoping for misty water and Autumn colours as an excuse to make the journey worthwhile. So a quick change of plan to a closer but no less attractive venue. The River Dee, South of Chester.

On the River early. I shared it with swans, kingfishers, ducks and cormorants. So relaxing, with the cool morning air now being warmed very nicely by a brilliant Sun. With the added bonus of plenty of reflection. Might end up catching the sun! Waved hello to a few friendly fishermen along the way and marvelled at the reflections and the leaves floating gently down from trees above. Thought there'd be more colour to the trees following a couple of still frosty nights. Wonder if the closness to the river makes a difference. Quite a few trees seem to be fully green, but still dropping leaves.

Five miles later, paddling upstream, I reached the blue Iron Bridge spanning the river. A natural place to turn round and gently drift a while. Before paddling steadily back to the Sandy Lane carpark. Full of lunchtime visitors, inevitably to watch me get changed!! A very nice relaxing way to get myself re-accustomed to the water again. A thouroughly pleasant weay to spend a morning!!

The Good, Bad and the Ugly

The Good... Heather! Yes, she went reasonably well for me this morning in the back outdoor. Slow start to the day, with Autumn fog enough to make any right minded horse, or person want to stay in. "Canter on the stiff side today please, H!" Sooner we get it done, sooner we go for a hack. Without too much trouble we're off on the right rein, in canter. Yes I was wearing plastic spurs and yes she did fight back. But her attitude was not full on war...more token resistance.
So we set off to do Kickety Brook anti-clockwise. Still foggy, was worried to canter as I couldn't really see too far! But we did..! Brave horse did so well for me. Up a head on the banks were three men using industrial sized strimmers to cut the grass on the lower banks. Plus a tractor with the big boom arm cutting the grass back further up! My initial reaction...same as hers. Turn round and go the other way! But between us, we gathered our courage and pushed on past! Very pleased with very brave horse!

Also under the Good, come Mel and Ange. Poor Mel turned up to find that Flossie has a sore back and she's riding Corbie. We're all creatures of habit and like to feel comfy in what we're doing. Mel is used to Flossie, Corbie is physically bigger, and a little of the unknown! So pleased that by the end of a lesson, that I peeked at from afar. Ange had got Mel and Corbie happily united and getting on so well together! So hats off to Ange and Mel, plus Corbie of course. Next week if all goes smoothly, I'll be taking Mel out on a short hack after her lesson..

The Bad...In my group lesson tonight I rode Garfield again. Two weeks ago he went so nicely for me. Tonight he was a bad lad! Excuses..for me. Last time I'd had a couple of private lessons leading up to riding him. So I was well tuned into how to keep a horse in a shape and working. I was also very focused riding him last time, knowing how he can bomb! This time perhaps I took my eye off a little and eased off him. Also he'd been hacked and was about to have his tea, when I turned up and tacked him to ride. I'd have been miffed if I were him!! So not ideal. So when he did "go" I didn't feel nervous about it. He's okay in his paddy fit, we get together again at some point. But for a short while I'm not really in control of this horse. Which is not good for the riders ego!! But with every ride, there's something learned. This is another thing that makes riding so addictive. There's always more to learn...there's always a challenge!

The ugly...me! I feel like some sort of monster rough rider...like an Ork from Lord of the Rings! For flogging, jabbing and hauling on poor horses, who only really want to eat grass!!

Girl's Got New Shoes...

Every six weeks is a milestone for Heather. Her feet are just one of her many issues. So a visit from the farrier is an important day. Unfortunately I've not been able to see her last two shoeings, so was pleased to be able to get down today.

When I first took over the reins, as it were, some fourteen months or so, ago. The first thing that I noticed about her were her huge, dinner plate sized feet. There are so many things I don't know about this horse. One of my questions to her, if she could speak, would be. "What happened to your feet"? They are so obviously a hinderance to her movement and to me, quite possibly one of the main reasons for her awkwardness into canter.

Her worst foot is her near fore, which is in the pic. Really the pic doesn't show the flare, or her low heel. But the cracks running from the clip give the whole problem away. This is the first time she's had clips. So her feet are getting stronger. Recently, especially after her last shoeing, I've really noticed am improvment in her going. So fingers crossed for tomorrow, when I plan to be at the yard early and try some schooling...then a little hack.

Always amazes me to watch a farrier work. There is so much skill and effort that goes into making each shoe and foot fit snugly together. There's something appealingly wholesome about seeing a horse being shod, whilst I have mobile phone in my pocket...and blog on the internet! I'm in love with the earthiness of horses and their old ties with man going way back . So despite our everyday arguments, in this modern world of ordered chaos... I'm really happy to have Heather in my charge. She reminds me that I'm alive!

Made in Taiwan

A moment of inspiration, or a moment of madness? The rush of blood that comes with rash decisions. A brief euphoria from clicking the mouse...followed by time to reflect, or regret...?

So it's done. I've ordered a unicycle. One of the most stupid, pointless and potentially dangerous devices ever invented. How enticing!!

As if they can't shift them quick enough, it arrives next day. A neighbour takes in the parcel unsuspecting. Luckily there's nothing to give away its contents. All it says on the box is "Made in Taiwan."

Once opened, there'll be no looking back. So I linger on the safe side. Last chance to keep the Genie corked!

Made short work of the box....Quickly snapped together the chrome wheel, forks and seat. Thoughts of a circus clown!! So it's done. Within a day of Googling, Unicycle....As if by magic, one has appeared.

Heather goes to the Waterpark

Grey overcast start to the day. I'm up late as it's my last day off before another shift. Decide on a short schooling session with Heather. I want to keep it simple and avoid a big fight. Todays goal is canter on her favoured left rein. I've put my short plastic spurs on as I want her to have the clearest signals as to what I want. So after a short but difficult warm up I ask for the first time. As so often, she gives a couple of strides then falls back into her super fast trot. On the second ask, I'm ready with a quick flick on her shoulder as she canters. Great! But we're not going to just sail round like this. Back to trot..now walk...halt. She's so good at halts! Now back up through the "gears" and down again. Four times, all with a passable canter. Enough for today. Let's go out.

As we head off the yard, down the lane, she's really responsive. I've got no doubt we're going to have a good ride out. I've got the Kickety Brook route , clockwise in mind. Soon over the green bridge, we stop to look at a sign which we pass so many times. Not sure if she's reading it or eyeing up the grass beside... Schooling's sharpened her and she strikes a lovely canter along the banks. Seems a pity to slow her, so much fun. No flies, no dogs, no wind or rain. Nice day to be out on a horse!

So nice trotting along Kickety Brook. Cool, wooded and green, still my favourite local hack. Before long we come to the junction where there are three choices of direction. I've changed my mind. I'm going to ask a big question of Heather. We're going to solo attempt the long black muddy tunnel, under the motorway. We've been in company before and we've stood in the entrance ourselves, this is a good opportunity. This is a scary enough place for people, let alone a possibly unwilling horse too! I push her on and soon we're in. It's difficult enough to see anything in here. To make matters worse, my glasses have now steamed up. I'm blind, and just keep squeezing my legs and trusting Heather. She goes on carefully, without a fuss. I think I gave out a bigger sigh as we came back into daylight!

There's an old saying "You don't flog a willing horse." Heather now comes into that bracket. She only needs leg on, to move her forward. Even though we're still heading away from home! Seeing as things are going so nicely, I've got an idea. Let's see if we can get to Sale Waterpark. Again I've taken her in company quite a while ago. So this will be another test. Never alone. There are lots more bridges and tunnels on this route, but with the worst under our belt, on we go. Strangely enough, it's Barfoot Bridge, the last one where Heather gets flustered and refuses to go. It has the river beneath on the left with a rapid. More unusual for her is the Metrolink tram lines on the right. I'm glad I waited for trams to pass before we attempted this bridge. As it tuns out, some firm leg and some encouraging words were all that was needed to convince her over. Her trust in me is so much better these days. Conversely, I roughly know what responses I'll get and trust her too.

Once over, just a short walk down to the waters edge. Poor girl was a little anxious at the sight of the lake. Blowing and snorting! Soon settled though. This has been a fantastic ride and we've been out far longer than I'd planned. I'm so pleased with her.

I try something else on the way back. Turn her for home and ask for trot. From now on I play dead. Sit still, no leg contact, slack reins, not a sound. I'm not going to interfere unless necessary. On she trots. Along the lane by the cemetery. Walks over the horse style...trots again! Under the A56 in walk. Then finds the gap in the fence turns left and goes carefully back through the long black tunnel! Amazing! She obviously felt happy enough along Kickety Brook to take a break for some grass! At which point I took over as I've got more to do than just watch her munch. Though she deserved it and got the rest of the day out with her mates!

Riding Roscoe

Today's been a glorious Autumn day. Started cool clear and misty, with a hint of Winter to come. By mid morning the Sun had warmed everything and reminded me of the Summer we didn't really have! The leaves are turning all colours, so in a way I wish I'd made the effort to go up to the Lakes for the day. A couple of things have kept me anchored closer to home ..either side of which it's been a very horsey day!
Had Heather tacked and ready by half nine. Into the school we marched. Unfortunately all that followed was one huge argument. Little progress on yesterdays session. She is so determined not to work. I'm equally hard about making her go. She is ignoring my leg. She gets a crack! Once is not enough with this horse. Only on the third whack, with leg of course, do I get any sort of positive forward response. Maybe she's got me, because I'm not sure how long I can keep taking her into the school and basically flogging her round. So after a sweaty half hour we head off out. I think this one was a draw...oh and I've broken another crop! We had a really nice little hack. Out and about she's now going off the leg. She gets a smack now and then to remind her...I don't want to, but this is one hard horse. I ask plenty of questions. Walk, trot, canter, all near perfect. I even turn her round halfway home and head back out. No protest. In so many ways she's doing really well. Despite our arguments earlier she still whinnies to me.
A friend, Mel has booked her first lesson in five weeks. She's been riding at the school through the Summer and progressing well. I was concerned that she'd not been in a while and may be at that stage where it's as easy to give up, than get on and feel like you're just standing still! How wrong was I. She rode well. I cast an eye over now and then, pretending to do some chores around the yard. She looks good...her balance and position are so much better than a while ago. I can see and appreciate everything so much myself, I've only been riding over a couple of years. I know how it feels to be in her place. Riding is not easy...but so rewarding. Ange thinks Mel is good enough to hack out. This was Mels goal, how happy am I going to be if I escort her on her first hack!!

To my Thursday night group lesson. Last week I rode Garfield for the first time. Proved to be a very good experience, despite my nerves and reservations. This week, Ange has paired me with Roscoe. He's a big chestnut gelding. Big as in bulldozer! This horse has a huge body, deep and full. His neck is rippling with muscle. Looks like he picks up cars with his teeth for a laugh! He has his issues and I've been in company with him on a hack, when he's decided to ditch his rider.. I'm ready for the challenge. So it turns out to be a really good lesson for me. He falls into and effortless outline. Difficult to turn..he's so big and a bit stiff in his body. There's no doubting his power and his walk to canter is so fluid and smooth, with his body tucked up and head held vertical. With all that muscle though, can't help feeling I'm riding a bull! Beautiful horse, can't help squeezing his neck again as I put him to bed. Not an ounce of fat. He is just oozing topline muscle. I feel really privileged to have been able to ride such an animal. A great day...again!

Horse with a Goldfish memory...

When it comes to horses, nothing really surprises me. However I was more than a little annoyed at Heathers lack of schooling memory. During the Summer I concentrated on hacking and sorting out her headshaking problem. Thanks to the Liverpool University Vet school, her headshaking is cured, while I've still some of the trail supplement left!! So finally I've had a chance to get her fit. She really is an improved horse out and about and I'm still seeing progress, almost daily! Despite her redundancy in the riding school, I've persisted and ridden her in my Thursday group lessons. Again this has been incredibly hard work. She has though shown some improvement here, even surprised me and any onlookers who know much about her.
My goal is to get her a job in the school. I took her on loan over a year ago, dragged from the field where she'd been sent to fester. She'd been spruced up and polished. Went well for me at first. Then ever so gradually, looking back, she took over. She really is one mean mare. This time last year, a nuclear war wouldn't shift her under muscled back end! I've had some really good help with her. It's taken all my courage and physical effort to claw back the ground lost. Why am I doing this? Believe it or not, there is so much joy in achieving the improbable. Also she has the most angelic face and whinnies when I come on to the yard. Admittedly she ignores me if there's already good food to be had. But I dare say I'd ignore her in favour of a good Sunday roast!
So today we attempted some solo schooling. Lovely day too. Mid Autumn, some sun, quite warm with a nice breeze...perfect for riding. Unfortunately the school is boggy and deep. I know there's going to be trouble as we walk, reluctantly round on her better left rein. In trot she's resisting and jumping back at me, trying to do little steps of canter. In walk she's napping and threatening to plant feet. Hardly dare changing the rein onto her stiff, right rein. I've tried with leg...lots of leg. I've encouraged and tapped only when absolutely needed. No she's fighting me. Okay. I don't like having to do this, but this behaviour stops now. I've learned how to and how hard to apply the whip with this horse. I look into the next door arena and see a rider on Garfield going ever so nicely. I cringe at the thought of anyone looking in on my "ride". The argument's over and now she just wants to canter! This is another protest. I'm fully aware that as soon as she drops from canter, she'll try and stop by the gate. I've got to be ready to transition to trot, but it takes a huge effort.
We've done half an hour. Both horse and rider shattered! Time for some fun. It's only a short hack down to the "canter field" and a chance to relax. It rained yesterday, but I'm still surprised how wet it is. Hope the surface isn't too greasy. I know that the far side by the river will be firm enough. I'm going to ask Heather a couple of questions. Seeing as she's freshly re-awakened, shall we say. Halt to canter...I know she can do it. She does....with a bit of encouragement, but yes. Not perfect on her right, she keeps cantering with the wrong lead. But for the halt to canter...pretty near every time. Good girl, time for home...haynet and turnout. Not even the University riders want her this week!