Test Ride Day!

What an interesting day! I trailered over to the arena to meet my friend, Ruth, who is a colt starter and trainer. She was late, so Jetta and I hung out and played around for an hour. I let her run loose in the arena for a few minutes, then saddled her. I lunged her, led her around, and let her graze outside. We watched a barrel racer working her horses. And we just hung out and relaxed. This horse knows how to chill. No pawing, no fidgeting, and no impatience. I love it.

Ruth showed up and got right up. Jetta was tight and anxious, but she was also forward and sensible. Meaning no bucking or real fighting. Ruth rode her at the walk, trot, and canter. She thinks Jetta has a great trot and walk, and a decent canter. But she knows nothing about seat, leg, yielding, softening, etc.. She is defensive, but didn't seem upset or aggressive. Ruth compared her to a colt that has been under saddle for three days. Sigh. Still, she's cute, tractable, and has great potential, and I like her.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7vcVDqyJZEU&feature=youtu.be               

Do you?

So she needs training. I expected that, and I have a plan. I will trailer her over to Ruth three times a week for training sessions. On the days I don't take her I will work with her here at home: ground work and ponying her out on trail with Keno. I think (hope!) she will progress quickly and I will be able to take over and continue her training within a few weeks. I know I will pay a lot driving her back and forth, but it will be worth it to keep her here at home where I can manage her care and feeding.

I am so excited! I know I've said it before, but I really like this girl and I think we are going to be a great team. Jetta is going to mature into a  really nice horse and she has the potential to excel in endurance. Lookout trails, here we come!