First trail ride on George

Third ride on George was a doozy. We ended up going on about a one hour trail ride with my friend and the hubby. He was better than I expected. 

He did have his "George" moments though. For example when adjusting the girth he nipped my arm. I couldn't even react and let him know he did something wrong before his face showed me that he KNEW he did something wrong. He was punishing himself and it was apparent that he has been taught the lesson before that you don't bite your person. 

Once we got started down the road he was great. He was a little weary of the corn field. But he walked out great and didn't mind being behind the other two horses. We had ridden for awhile and crossed the highway when he decided that he was done. He was throwing a little hissy fit but I got him through it. 

Once we decided it was time to head for home George was like "game on! I'm a race horse!" Okay so he didn't bolt for home or anything but like most horses he picked up his pace. His ears went back and he was making his weirdo faces again. Chomping on his bit was a nice touch. But that whole act didn't last long. He was nice and relaxed for the rest of our journey. I do notice, both from tonight's ride and old pictures of him, when he gets his mind on something his ears go back...almost pinned back, but not quite all the way back.

This is how his ears looked on the way home.
Photo by Maggie Kimmett

I am still figuring his "George-isms" but I am impressed with how he was on our ride. He is a good boy even if he has his moments. But if you asked me a few years ago if I would have put my third ride on my new thoroughbred out on a trail ride I would have called you nuts. I can't wait to put more time on him. 

Also on a side note. Pistol was fantastic for his beginner rider. I am so pleased with that horse! Last time she rode was when she was ten. He really took care of her for her first time back in the saddle.