One of my OTTBs (off-track thoroughbred) was just not getting with the program. I wanted to ride him, he wanted me to NOT ride him. He just did not want anyone on his back--no way, no how. Sure, he had thrown one of the top jockeys in the country but me? He wanted to throw me? I'm filled with good intentions! Compassion! Happy thoughts! Still no go.
I knew that physically, this horse was in great shape. But mentally? I wasn't so sure. He did seem to have a few…issues. Frustrated, I was pouring my heart out to a friend (and wonderful trainer) who made the simple but deeply zen observation: "Why don't you try going sideways to move forward." I stared at her. I'm a pretty spiritual person, but I was kind of like…uh…WTH?
"Try a different approach," she said, "Something he has no experience with. Do it gently and calmly…make it enjoyable for him.This horse has a wonderful work ethic but you need to find what work he wants to do."
And so under my friend's instruction, we started off on the path of driving. Yes, my 17.2 hand TB from Ireland was going to be a driving horse. I had my doubts.
But guess what. My 17.2 hand TB from Ireland is a driving horse. And a pretty good one, at that.
So yeah, sometimes you have to go sideways to go forward. Thanks Val!
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