Green horses are so rewarding in some ways. Especially when you have a quick study, like Riley (who by the way has also mastered smiling and targeting a tennis ball beyond his under saddle work). Every day I can feel a bit more progress, a little more stamina.

We’ve only got a few jumping sessions under our belt since the priority has been building a baseline fitness (myself included), but now that that’s established the work can get a little more fun and varied. So I set up a basic course yesterday, between 2′ and 2’6″ with long approaches and inviting ascending oxers.

Mane for days

We kept things short and sweet, so that we were done over these (slightly) bigger fences before anyone got super tired. I’m still working on my two point, which somehow didn’t make it into the video, and working on trying to keep my hands still on the approach. Getting my hands tangled in Riley’s giant mane makes quiet hands a little easier, albeit it has a negative effect on steering.

I see plenty to be improved for both of us (especially myself), but it’s exciting that we are coming along so quickly. Getting excited for the faux-show this weekend!