07/07/2024
This is Ryan, a horse I’ve been working with for just over a year. He was originally rescued and described as “sharp”. He had sustained some previous injuries and was advised to be nothing more than a field ornament.
Ryan was making great progress on the lunge so I decided to be stunt double for Nicky and get on to see what he was really like. He was extremely unbalanced and anxious, but I knew with time and patience it was something I could work with.
We started with a horse that could not canter on the left rein (ridden, lunged, or in the field). A horse that had 1 very small pace in the trot and a very rigid canter.
Riding as light, sensitive and patient as possible I have been able to gain the trust of this horse. Working through various exercises (including my very own horse gym program) to strengthen his weak points, encouraging him to relax and lengthen his paces.
Along side Nicky, physios (who announced Ryan to be 100% sound a few weeks ago, to everyone’s disbelief) and other equestrian professionals, it is incredible what we have been able to achieve.
Ryan and I did a novice dressage test at a charity event over the weekend. This test included medium trot, and medium canter (on the left rein!). We walked away with a score of 69.47% (including an 8.5 in the canter)
Ryan is now showing some incredible paces, doing pole work and even enjoying the occasional jump. I am so proud to say this horse now enjoys his new found ridden career and I’m grateful to be a part of it.
Nicky Hopley