Fab hack tonight

[cazrider]

Just got back from a lovely hack on "Mr Bouncy". Not sure whether its spring grass, the fact he's much fitter this year or the Glucosamine supplement he's been getting, or a combi of all three, but Sennie is certainly lively at the moment. Any of you finding the same?

We were trying out the brakes this evening with a cherryroller bit (sounds perfect for you Domane;) ) out with a friend and her lovely easy going cob mare, Jasmine.

We were very forward going in walk, the occasional jog but fairly easily brought back. I found I could anticipate the jogging round corners and a half halt before the corner usually resulted in a couple of jog steps then back to walk rather than take off in fast uncontrolled trot.:rolleyes: Then we tried a canter up the hill, Sennie in front. Started in trot then up into canter. Then off he went up a gear:eek: A half halt and raising my body (I've been reading this month's Horse magazine about how to be controlled riding fast!:cool: ) brought him back down to canter, then trot and we went over the top of the hill in trot then walk. FAB:D Jasmine came cantering up behind.

He's still excited but controllable, even going round corners. Now I know this isn't a sponsored ride, and I know he was in front, but I was so proud of him. We walked back striding out like he could have done another couple of miles.

Absolutely lovely.:D :D Next time we'll try him behind and see how he goes then... Hmm.. a slug of rescue remedy I see coming.:o Large glass of white wine now.:D

It's funny that fearsome sponsored ride the other week, which should have put me off forever, has actually increased my confidence I don't know why. I suppose once the most frightening thing has happened, it all seems less scary. That ride today with him so forward going, would have finished me off a couple of years ago. But it didn't, hurray:D

[domane]

Sounds like a great time (and looks it from all the happy green smilies! :D Oops, there's another!!!)

Sometimes hacks are just perfect aren't they...? Our horses respond beautifully and we feel all "at one with the world"... glad you had a good time.

Thanks for the Cherry roller recommendation..... spoke to RI about "brakes" tonight (she boosted my morale considerably by telling me that having seen me ride she thinks I cope brilliantly - Arnie eat your heart out :p ) We have a few things in the pipeline to try.... not going to mention as I get so much conflicting advice I end up more confused... think I will just try some options until I find something that suits Cherry AND me.

Have a slurp of wine for me... I have a cup of tea here!!!! :rolleyes:

[NoviceNic]

Yey another one is biting the confidence and taking it by the b*lls:cool: . What bit is it you are trying?? I have to consider another bit as the Captain sticks his tongue out with the Dutch Gag. :p

[ANN H]

Oooh Caz - well done! Sounds like fun. I'm sure we're all going mental and daring with this spring weather!

[cazrider]

Thanks all.. yes, confidence, very hard won and very fragile, is rearing its head again.. hopefully. let's hope it stays here.:)

Domane.. my reference to cherryroller was the name.. not that I think you should use one.. I wouldn't dream of trying to tell you what to do.:o I think you and Cherry are a great team.

Novice Nic, I am trying a D ring snaffle with copper rollers in it. Actually, as you'll have gathered he went Ok in it last night, but to be honest there was no real test. When he's in front he's usually pretty Ok, although very lively last night. It would probably have been a different kettle of fish if someone had gone past him in canter. Something like Jane had the other day.

AnnH, I think you're right. Long may it last.:)

[Skib]

I am just loving these reports cazrider. Sort of agree that after one has been run away with my a horse, without falling, you
1. know you can cope
2. look for ways to handle and calm the horse and to control the speed.
So go up a notch as a rider. Whereas if you havent needed the solutions, you dont extend your competence.
I was just the same on my favourite horse, so now must get Horse magazine.
When you kindly let me ride Sennie, I didnt feel he would break into canter unless asked, but he did feel, under my seat, more than willing to speed forward, if I might like that. That is one reason I liked him - no pulling, but the enjoyment of movement there.
Also explains why I decided not to canter - it being my first ride on him and a strange saddle and all that.
I am really glad he is so well and you are enjoying it.

[Whatanejit]

Great news CR!

Sennie sounds like a great boy and you make a great team. Thanks for reminding me to buy the horsey magazines.

Will have to wait 'till Friday (payday) as I'm skint:o

Have a great week.

xx