3y.o.

[highland]

Ive been given a rising 4y.o. to ride. It has been broken - and the previous rider has done walk and trot. Im not a novice, but have little experience with youngsters of this degree (Ive ridden rising 5y.o.s) Does anyone have any suggestions of what i should be careful of, and any ideas what I should do when i first try him out and assess him. Thanks. Im also worried because I amquite a bit (1-2st) heavier than his previous rider. WIl this have an effect? Thanks for any suggestions!

[Heather]

HI Highland,

When you say that you are heavier than his previous rider, do you think that you may be on the limit for him weightwise? If not, and he is well up to your weight, it shouldn't be a problem, as long as you are not sitting heavily in the saddle and making him take full responsiblity for your weight, as opposed to the other way round. Has he been reasonably well educated for his age, or is he a totally green horse? If the latter, I strongly advise that you get some help with him. Where exactly do you live?

Heather