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View Full Version : FINALLY the right barn, horse, trainer!


Ruffiane
25th May 2005, 03:24 PM
Haven't posted here for a long time. I wasn't riding and I was trying different barns, none of which worked out. So I finally tried a hunter/jumper barn suggested by a friend; this was a barn I'd heard about from time to time. Oh, what a difference! It's not a kids' barn, it's not even a lesson barn - everyone except me owns her own horse and takes lessons on it. But there's a marvelous 15.2 chestnut quarter horse whose owners live too far away now to ride him.

This is just an incredible horse. The right height, width and temprament (CALM!) for me. He's actually more well-trained than I am, so if I give a wrong cue, I learn REAL fast not to do that! The trainer is the best I've encountered (and I tried MANY in my area). I'm learning by leaps and bounds and last night just cantered and cantered away, even cantering in circles, which I'd been afraid to do on other horses - afraid of losing my balance.

Riding now is just sheer joy and I'm starting to feel as if I LOOK the way good riders look (if that makes sense). This is a show barn, and I think by the end of the summer I should be able to ride in a flat class, at least in a non-rated show.

shirley
27th May 2005, 03:05 PM
You must be very relieved to have finally found something that works and clicks after such a long search. As for coming on leaps and bounds, well done to you. It really does make a difference when you get the right mix.
We landed on our feet with our livery yard, when we had our first horse. We are still there. Unfortunately the loan horse we had was not right for our daughter, but we then bought a 14. 2 cob for me, again after looking for several months and now kept on this same livery yard. We have also found the right pony for our daughter, also kept there. It took time to find the right cob for me, but he is wonderful - actually show name is Mr. Right - because he is just right for me!!! We have a very good instructor on the yard who has inspired me and gradually increase my confidence to keep going and improve. I also have another instructor who makes me work hard, pushes me further than I ever thought I would ever be able to go. Not great heights and never pushes further than she feels I am capable of, but each of them I have great confidence in.
I dreamt of riding / owning horses since I was a very little girl and never ever thought that this dream would come true - but it has and is a true reality. So every time I ride, acheive something else I count my blessings!!! Occasional bruises when I have come off - but those I can count on one hand fortunately.
Hope all continues to improve with you and carry on enjoying your success and having fun!!!

kedwards
28th May 2005, 02:57 PM
How wonderful! Finding the right horse, right instructor, and right situation can make a huge difference. Enjoy!