Fun long reining........

[brigadier]

Toudle, it was his first time today and he was swell, he is quite compact with a thick neck but he made a lovely shape and really tried hard for me, getting the hang of the turns and stopping, he is super intelligent though so he learns really quickly but is hyper sensitive. I had hoped to have backed him by now but actually I think its been good we have built a relationship as I think there may be a tiger in his tank!

I did have a bit of an issue getting him to stand long enough so I could get to his head when we had done, he kept thinking he had to keep going, I eventually let one rein drop and crept my way up the other so he was semi-lungeing.

I have also managed to buy a saddle off ebay that could have been made for him, its a bit old fashioned but the extended cantle is ok for my bum as I didnt want anything bigger than sixteen inch- so we are now good to go- just need to get on him!!! Will keep you posted and hopefully do a video or some pics (but I am particularly slack with pics!)

[racaille]

Well, going slowly won't have done him any harm, will it? He sounds a little treasure and I can't wait to see the pix. Will you keep him and sell Frank?

Have you started Sam yet or are you too busy with the ponies? And does Basil even get a look in?

[brigadier]

I might look to loan one of them, or possibly both whilst I have Sam to keep Basil company, but im not trying that hard to find somewhere suitable. It would be hard to choose which to let go, I can ride Toudle and can imagine having a bit of fun with him but Frank is such a sweetie and no bother at all- never puts a foot wrong and touch wood they are peanuts cost wise as both are unshod etc. Just their vaccs and wormers/teeth. Sam is looking marvellous now the grass has given him a shine, he is currently having a foot re-balanced as its a bit boxy so letting him have the summer and autumn when he will be three and a half then I can start some gentle schoolwork to get him the right shape.
Again, not sure where that will take us, I could keep him easily enough as a second horse but Basil has still plenty of mileage in his engine so do I really need a second horse right now?

He is my type though and a real gentleman, when he pushes the boundaries I only have to harden my voice slightly and he immediately behaves, which makes me think he will be a pleasure to train and a real pleaser. But boy is he quick. when he and Basil get going in the field its amazing!

[fleabitten]

Sounds good brig!! Looking forward to seeing some pics!

[solomon]

I love the sound of Sam, has he got any taller?

[brigadier]

Havent measured him but he looks a bit bigger, still hasnt grown into his head though so think there may be another inch or so. He is getting prettier though, with lovely almond eyes and the nicest expression. Not a stunner but a real sweet type. Type of horse you fall in love with, but thats a bad thing...right?

[solomon]

Sounds like what happened to me!