October 8th, 2010

I had a western riding lesson today. I guess it wasnt exactly a riding lesson as much as it was tips and help with getting the most out of Harley. My plan is to use him next year as my gymkhana horse. I had wanted to use Bentley but my western trainer thinks that his conformation will cause him problems when I really start to push him for speed. Im bummed about this. I dont want to do anything to Bentley that will or could hurt him, but Bentley enjoys gaming. He loves to run and we have a pretty good bond.

Anyway, Im told that Harley will be able to take the training and pressure. So the training offically started today. we worked on me keeping my reins low and consistant, only using my pinkies to communicate through the reins. This is a very good thing for me to work on since I could easily get caught up into over using the rein. My homework is to ride him up into the bridle and work on backing without reins. When I am using the reins, I need to concentrate on when he comes off the bit.

I hope I can find the time to ride Harley and Lazz and work with Fergie and Amigo. At some point this weekend I also have to ride Rosie for an hour.

After tonights barn therapy I'm feeling a lot better about things. I hope that feeling carries over to tomorrow.