Rio update

So, yesterday I hauled Rio to the indoor arena to ride, as people were coming today to try him out. I saddled and hauled him, and at the arena I turned him loose for some liberty fun (we had the place to ourselves) . At first, he trotted and loped around me in a circle, but soon realized he had the whole arena to motor around in.


After that I stepped on and rode, he was such a good boy you'd never know he'd been laid off for over 4 months (last ride April 10th, his 3rd birthday) other than the few minutes the other day in the round pen and the short trail ride.He remembered all his cues, and I got nice yields from all parts of his body, worked on trot to halt transitions, sidepass, two track, spin, back up, etc. He was so good I only schooled for a half hour. I took this little video, riding one handed while I videoed. Spins and a couple of halt/back ups.



So today, a father/daughter duo came to see him. It was pouring rain for the first time in about 7 weeks- right when we had to catch them in the field! Of course all they wanted to do was frolic in the rain.... 20 minutes later  and 3 soaked people ..... brought him in the stall where they had a good look at him. Dad's only concern was his size! Just under 16 hands. but I think he's done going up and now will be just adding muscle and bulk. We hauled to the arena and once again had it to ourselves; nice to have an indoor to ride in when it is pouring rain! I rode for a couple of minutes, just one loop around the arena to see if he had any issues, then dad rode. Very nice set of hands, and a good understanding of what to expect from a 3 year old. Then he put his daughter up and I really liked the way she rode and how well Rio responded to her. Rio never went one bit faster than the gait she put him in until she asked for more. She rode at all 3 gaits, got the correct leads, and even grinned when she got him to spin. A very nice young lady. The gist of it is, Shayla sent me a message that they want to take him on trial for a month. I couldn't be more pleased! So Sunday, Rio heads to Alberta with a ranch for his home and a future as a 4H and show horse as well as ranch duties. So perfect for him! I'm hoping to get some videos to share that dad took of his daughter riding. Will keep you all updated! I'm pretty sure that they won't be sending him back: I always try to represent horses honestly, no surprises.