Training a Thoroughbred can feel like a dance with one step forward and two steps back. The process draws you closer as partners, but you need to work through the stumbles. Trailering has been our biggest challenge.
The countdown is on! It’s amazing to think we are just a bit over a month away from the Makeover. I’ve spent so much time reflecting on my journey with Bronn in the last couple of blogs, but now things are starting to feel real… maybe a little too real!
A lot has happened in the past month, as Funnee and I continue to plug away at our training and prepare for the Thoroughbred Makeover. All of this year’s Makeover trainers were required to lock in their discipline choices in early August. For those unfamiliar with the competition, all trainers are able to choose a primary discipline to focus on with their horses. Riders may add a second discipline if they so choose.
I frequently get asked by my friends and family about how Dom is doing and how he is coming along, and normally, throughout this process I have been able to give detailed answers and describe all of the things we have been working on and any of Dom’s silly antics. But this past month hasn’t been the same.
I have been so busy with other aspects of my life that I haven’t had the time I was hoping to spend with Dom. So, I’ve done a lot of thinking about how far Dom and I have come since we started this journey together.
His tiny squeal when he is concerned. His lower lip hanging so low when he is relaxed or sleeping, you can land an airplane. His little hind leg cow kick when he is protesting or nervous. His whinny that is so high pitched when he is calling to his friends, you’d never believe it was coming from a 17-hand, 1500-pound gelding. His pricked ears and deep, thoughtful eyes when he is focused on you or ready for whatever is on hand.
