Going solo: Ri and I

Not Riley and Stacey

For thirteen months, Ri has benefitted from the expertise and skilled riding of his trainer. She rode him, showed him, cantered him across open fields, took him on trails alone, worked through some minor naughtiness, taught him the basics of being a riding horse as well as hinting at things to come (Collection! Half-pass!). We’ve been to Devon, clinic’ed with some big names, done some recognized shows, all with my trainer on board. It’s been fun, and I’m so grateful.

"Why is a trainer riding your horse?"
Another boarder asked me what I was "trying to accomplish" by having a trainer and doing all the riding.   The first answer I think of is that it has been fun! Having someone else ride your young horse relieves you of pressure, and you can just enjoy watching your youngster develop. But also, I want to be a responsible owner, and a good steward, of this young horse. Ri needs to be a good equine citizen so that if he leaves my hands, he’ll be more likely to go to good home.  The way to make that happen, is to give him a good start, free of bad habits, and if possible,  for him to do well in the show ring. I’m always amazed at what people put up with in a horse that wins ribbons.

The money angle
I don’t regret a penny of the money I've invested, but it is a daunting amount. In the last couple of months, I am increasingly alarmed at my credit card statement, and my savings balance. I mean, think about it. Two horses, two farrier bills, two vet bills, showing, clinics, and training--and I’m a librarian, woo hoo. Here’s the bottom line. I can’t do this any more. I’s financially brain-dead. And, it's time to focus on the goal of horse ownership, not to have someone else ride my horse, but for me to ride and enjoy my chestnut friend.  For once, it’s okay to say it. It’s about me.

I had the discussion with my trainer, and as of now we’re on a training hiatus. I am riding Riley as often as I can, and it isn’t so bad. Not too many wow moments, but he seems reasonably happy. I think this is truly the only way I’ll be able to figure him out. Next goal: Training level at our next show in July. That means steadier contact and CANTER. Getting it, keeping it, and not falling into the trot like we've been dropped from a building. All in that teensy freakin’ arena.