HORSEMANSHIP WEEKEND: Sunday

HORSEMANSHIP WEEKEND – Sunday: Today we hosted a workshop at our place that focused on horse/human communication, trust and “quiet conversation” techniques. Ground skills, round pen work, work on new terrain and obstacles and work under saddle were all part of the day! We also had a great lunch (chili, cornbread and all the fixings)!

Starting in the round pen we worked on the Human being in the proper position in relation to the Horse, timing of cues and the clarity of what was being asked. We established a consistent direction and gait, established getting two eyes, established a consistent change of direction and gait and did several exercises that hone the Human’s feel and timing.

Then we moved “outside” and worked on communication and timing over a wide variety or terrain, natural and man-made obstacles. The group worked on being clear and fair as well as offering the horse the best deal in order to find the right answer and get their release/reward. Lots of wins happened and lots of improvement.

Working under saddle was a blast! Folks enjoyed the obstacles and terrain as they built their confidence. We worked on helping with refusals over obstacles and those related “feelings” that come with the lack of confidence, The day ended well and we will be doing more of these workshops as the year progresses!

Lunch was really tasty.

Flames Experience: Our little gal did really great. She was a solid example of how fast a horse can pick up a new skill if the human is consistent in their conversation. She handled well on the ground and rode well under saddle. After her performance on Saturday this was not unexpected. We worked pretty hard (mentally and physically) over last two days. Very proud of her. She is going to get then next few days off (or maybe some light groundwork) just to let everything sink in. We keep upping the performance bar and she works hard to meet it. They give to us and we give to them. Works out well.