My little ornery pony has come a long way! Wookie is my 5 yr. old Friesian/ Welsh cross pony. (Yes, I know, it was an accidental breeding). Last week, my young junior jockey neighbor Yomar first took him for a refresher ride in the western saddle (as it had been a few weeks since he was last ridden).
Then the following day, his father (Yomar Ortiz Sr., a professional jockey) accompanied him on Pimms for a bit of leg stretching. This time, he rode Wookie bareback (as he is most comfortable), and managed to urge him into a canter of more than a few strides for the first time. They did great, I was very proud of both Wookie and Pimms.
And finally, I decided to finally take Wookie on a trail ride. He did wonderfully, never having had to carry and adult for so long, and even doing a couple nice canter stretches! I am very pleased with my little guy.
Here are the videos of the younger and elder Ortiz riders. Aren't they just adorable?!:
