Photo by Ivegotyourpicture.com
It’s been quite a while since I’ve given an update on Aero, the 2009 OTTB I acquired last December. In many areas, he’s come a very long way…and in other areas (like being fat!) he still has a ways to go. I keep reminding myself that he’s a four-year-old, and he will grow and change quite a bit in the coming years. However, that will have to be for someone else to enjoy. As I promised myself (and my husband) over the winter, Aero is now offered for sale. Looking ahead to weaning my mare and foal this fall, I will need the stall/paddock space, and it’s time for Aero to move on (and move up!) with a new rider.
I had hoped to have a few competitions under his belt by now, but the timing was never quite right (no fault of his!). He’s ready to go beginner novice, having schooled banks and ditches like a pro. He canters around 2’6″ courses, and while he still has his green moments he has learned to trust me and give it a try. Aero boldly leads the way on hacks, and recently proved his mettle on the trails at Shakertown. Up and down steep, narrow paths, through mud and slick rocks, he stepped carefully over fallen branches and always had his ears up looking for the next challenge. Perhaps he’d enjoy a career as a competitive trail horse?? He’s the type who might spook once at a legitimate threat, but immediately relaxes and goes back to having a good time for the rest of the ride.
Aero after he first arrived, December 2012: an awful photo emphasizing his lack of condition
Aero’s been a fun, but challenging horse as he’s come along. He carried some baggage from a less-than-stellar racing career along with a history of poor handling, and it’s taken some time for him to forget the past and enjoy his new life. For example…he was terrified of being blanketed when I first got him; and being 200lbs underweight, in December, wearing a blanket was not optional. For weeks, the motion of throwing a blanket (or even a saddle pad) over his back caused his knees to buckle and he’d leap sideways six feet. I spent time with him doing some groundwork, working up to gently slapping him with a plastic bag on the end of a stick. There was much snorting and brief panic, but he learned flapping objects were not going to kill him. Blankets, towels, and saddle pads are completely ho-hum now. The desensitizing went a long way in building his trust.
Aero in July, 2013. Photo by Ivegotyourpicture.com
Under saddle, I’ve felt some really nice moments with him– when his whole body softens, swings, and he floats– and I can tell he will develop into a very nice horse for someone someday. He’s an honest jumper with a good natural rhythm, though still green and awkward at times. Aero’s mental maturity is that of a four-year-old… you can’t pretend he’s six or seven and rush him along, because he’s just not ready. He needs someone with patience, to give him the consistency and confidence he craves. While I wish I was able to keep him, I feel like I’ve given him a good foundation for someone else to build upon, and unlock his true potential. I look forward to following his success in years to come, whatever direction they decide.
Photo by Ivegotyourpicture.com
If you’re in the market for a young horse, look for Aero’s ad coming soon on Sport Horse Nation.
