Sometimes it is so comforting to see that your trainer has the same types of issues you do when riding your horse. However, it is also amazing to see how effectively said trainer influences said horse and gets so much better results. That was definitely the case tonight.
Once a month my trainer, CG, rides Gryfon for me. He hasn't ever done any arena work before and was used mostly on trails. While he has an amazing brain and a good attitude, he hasn't been asked to bend or engage his hind quarters. These are things he really struggles with, and in turn I really struggle with properly asking (enforcing) him to bend and engage. CG is such an effective rider, that Gryfon throws a tiny fit or two, and within seconds, CG has reinforced the expectation and Gryfon settles into the work trying to do what is asked. I learn so much just by watching CG ride.
CG has been working on Gryfon's right lead canter. It was discovered that Gryfon does indeed have a button for that! It is different than his left lead canter button, but he does have it! After discovering that button, CG tested it several more times and almost every time Gryfom picked up the correct lead quickly and without any drama at all!
We also discussed my show plans for 2023. I am excited to announce I am going to the Donida Schooling Show in March! I will be entering 2 classes: Intro Test A and 6 feet on the Ground (an in-hand class). I'm super excited and will be spending the next few weeks getting ready!
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