My Soapbox for Equestrian Writings
At the 1968 summer Olympics in Mexico, the tallest fences were 7’3″. That was back in the “old days” before the maximum heights were lowered. This year featured the largest jumps in any Olympic competition. Imagine then, riding a 14.1″ Connemara-TB cross around that course. Marion Coakes, riding her super pony Stroller, did just that, […]
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Sometimes you read something that just makes you feel good about people. Today I came across a post on Facebook by Ty Murray, considered to be one greatest rodeo cowboys ever. After retiring from rodeo competition, he has made a practice of retiring great bucking horses to his ranch in Texas. 12 grave markers sit […]
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I’m recovered enough from my accident that I no longer thing about my injuries. There are a few things my ankle or my shoulder object to doing, but mostly I feel pretty good. Harder than recovering from the physical issues has been dealing with the residual anxiety. I have a pretty active imagination, and a […]
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I’m so glad to see people promoting one of the best things you can do with your horse — go for a long walk. It makes me feel virtuous and “in the know” as it’s one of my favorite things to do. This Facebook post says: Go walk your horse. Saddle up and go walk […]
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I managed to sneak in a quick ride today, while it was still cool enough that the deerflies were caught off guard. This is a frustrating time of year because it’s so beautiful out, and yet so treacherous. Zelda is very sensitive to biting bugs and can misbehave when they attack. Zelda and I enjoyed […]
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All I can say is: It’s about time. Led by the Stronach Group, which owns Santa Anita and Golden Gate Fields, changes are coming North American racing. Two other major racing organizations — Churchill Downs and the New York Racing Association — are implementing a partial phase out of Lasix, beginning with 2-year olds racing […]
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Many horses are adept at inflating their bellies like balloons, making it near impossible to get your girth tight enough before you mount. Especially when you are riding cross country, or foxhunting, getting that girth up another hole or two can make the difference between a saddle slipping or staying put. The problem is that […]
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