GD's getting a bit down about her new pony. She's very sweet natured, willing to learn and sensible (pony, that is), but a bit green (she's 8) She doesn't do anything terrible but pulls a bit when we ride out. Basically it's because she's not yet soft and working through her back, so her head carriage is a bit high which means she's above the bit. We're doing loads of schooling and lungeing (long and low, getting her to relax)
GD wants to put her in a stronger bit to ride out (currently loose ring french snaffle) as she's fed up with being pulled around. I want her to ride much more with seat and legs and much less with hands as I think she's fighting the pony. If we go stronger on the bit this will only make things worse, as pony will fight more. It will only get better when GD stops fighting her, in my view.
The problem I'm having is that GD is perfectly capable of working through it, she is a good enough rider, but is struggling with keeping going through the tough times. It results in her getting whingey with the pony, which just winds them both up. I keep saying 'calm and determined', but it's getting on my nerves now.
I think some of it is that she's finding it hard to let go of riding her old pony, who she's had a fantastic partnership with, and who younger sharer is getting on fantastically with. He was fun, new pony is hard work, but will be very rewarding when she gets it. I'm planning loads of Pony Club over the next few months, maybe this will help.
Feel better for a moan!
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It will get better, won't it?
8 replies
olderyetwider · 22/09/2011 14:17
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