Hunt Seat

I had a lesson today, and it was a blast! I'm starting out with a new trainer, at a new barn, on a school horse for a while. Eventually, when I get a trailer and a clue what I am doing, I will haul Andy in for lessons. Drew and the Bug will definitely be staying at their current barn, because I love it there.

Today was my evaluation lesson, and from here on out I will learning hunt seat, leading up to jumping eventually! I have always wanted to jump, and figured that now was as good of a time as any. So today we worked on hunt seat equitation, and fixing the little things that I do wrong, like collapsing my ankles instead of squeezing with my calves, pushing my feet forward when I post, and riding with my hands in the right position for jumping (not in my crotch!). I really liked the new trainer, who gave me good advice on what I was doing wrong and how to fix it, as well as keeping my self esteem up by telling me good things I was doing, like looking ahead and giving clear, consistent commands while still being gentle.

I rode this cute little Morgan named Celia. New Trainer warned me that she rushes down the length of the arena in the trot, and told me I could pull her back to the walk if I needed to/got nervous. Bwahaha, I ride Prince Toyota of the Unintended Acceleration almost every day- it takes a heck of a lot of rushing to intimidate me. A few quick, gentle checks was all I needed to convince Ms. Morgan that I have regulated the speed of crazier horses than her, much to the surprise of New Trainer. Point 1, Megan.

So, by the end of the lesson I have a few things that I think I can correct easily, with just some time in the saddle with Andy. I also was declared a good enough rider to ride New Trainer's Thoroughbred jumper in the next lesson. Heck yes! So maybe I will focus on hunt seat now for a while, instead of dressage. Or maybe do both? Oh lordy! But seriously, no more polo, cause polo is lame.