A Good Day With Gary

I know that I have posted a couple of horse-related topics.  Here's one more - I'll be brief.  Ben rode Gary this week and had, in my opinion, his best end-of-week demonstration.  It's important to remember that before these lessons in Australia, Ben only had about 10 hours of experience in English saddle (much more in Western saddle, but that's an entirely different game).  The instructors at the riding school here are very impressed with his improvement over the past several weeks.  Of course, he's a natural!

Anyway, like I said, this week he rode Gary.  Gary is a tough one to ride, but has some good payoffs (again testament to Ben's improving skills).  I like Gary because he comes to me when I call him and is very affectionate.  Ben likes Gary for those reasons, plus, when they're by themselves (i.e. not in a close group), Gary is quick and athletic.  Some examples: smooth and agile cantering around cones, fast rising-trot, steady during long riding sessions (doesn't get tired), and good jumping.  But, all of those qualities also require Ben to always attend to what's going on (i.e. an athletic horse will just be "more horse" sometimes).

Photos below:  Ben and Gary in a relaxed walk around the ring, Ben and Gary jumping, in post-jump canter, Ben and Nick preparing to get Gary ready (we were late to lessons that day, so, Nick helped Ben), remaining photos are Ben, Nick, and Gary getting ready for the "show"