Stumpy the Wonder Horse Strikes Again

[Imzadi83]

only this time she lived up to her name. A new helmet all my own and some summer riding pants. I wanted the horses to take me seriously. I arrived just as the other class was finishing up. Was told to take a horse from one of the kids either Sully or Stumpy. Now, having been bossed around by both of those mares (whatever happened to us girls sticking together huh?) and knowing they'd both just worked I figured I was in trouble either way. I headed out after the kids and horses, wanting to catch one before it was back in its stall. I saw Stumpy first and took her. The little girl seemed glad to give her up, how do little kids get the saddles off anyway? They're heavy.

I digress.

Good girl Stumpy did stand still while I mounted. And mother bribed her with a carrot. On her back and out the door she was already trying to cut corners and I figured it was gonna be a long night. I couldn't get her to trot for the group trot. Then one time around I saw my RI with the gravel from the arena floor in her hands. I told Stumpy "Look out she's got rocks in her hands and she's gonna throw them at your butt." My RI said "Yeah Stumpy I got a big old rock." Stumpy pinned her ears back and took off trotting LOL. Once she was going she was a good girl. She listened to my light aids and was so good mom gave her a treat every time we came around (and my some water, I really am a weakling).

And guess what?! We cantered and even jumped! :D Just a little one but it was my first and I was so thrilled because she didn't stop trotting over the two jumps so I did better getting into jumping position at the right time. After that she started cantering to the end of the line. I hadn't asked her to do that and my RI was like "You've stopped steering." but I was just so excited I didn't really care what we did after that. I did better cantering too not getting scared and going into that fetal crouch. I'm really proud of myself (I was the only one in the class not jumping) and thrilled with Stumpy for listing to me! Even my RI said she had more respect for me this time. I can't wait for my next lesson! :D

[sancho]

Well done you! Its a great feeling when you know youve achieved something and improved as a rider.:D

[Skippys Mum]

See!!! We told you so:D.

Really glad you're enjoying it and you've started to look forward to it. Keep us posted:D

[Midnight Rose]

See! As you're getting more confident and not dwelling on her being a slow plod she's coming together for you :)

[Brandy Snap]

are you able to spend some quiet time with her in her stall too? giving her a groom, chatting to her and some cuddle time? That all helps too.

I used to ride a really cheeky wee highland who I loved to bits. I had a really good relationship with him on the ground (first pony I ever really had a proper bond with) and he was usually great when I rode him. With everyone else tho he'd buck. Big time, and most of them would fall off (including staff) he still bucked with me but not unseating bucks... just 'yippeeee we're cantering' bucks!

I'm convinced its because he knew I was his friend and cared about him outside of the arena as well!

So if you can spend some time with stumpy, take her in hand for a pick of grass, give her a groom. Just relaxed time with no expectations. I know its harder with riding school horses, especially if you dont stay on after or before you lesson to help. But most would be happy that your grooming the horse as thats one less for there staff to do!

[storm35]

Well done you.

[chickflick1066]

Sounds like you're doing fabulously! :D

(And I always think you're talking about my pony, she's called Stumpy too ;))

[Jenny2502]

aw it sounds like you're coming on in leaps and bounds, and you'll know when the time is right and you'l have the confidence to jump :) ;)