golddustsara
Well-Known Member
My boy has had a very quiet summer with one or two small hacks alone/in company per week due to his seasonal headshaking. Now the pollen is dying down, we are able to do more, but he is developing a rather annoying habit of planting himself and trying to whip round for home. I can feel him tense just before he is about to stop and mostly can catch him before he stops but sometimes I relax into the scenery and he gets the better of me. Smacking/shouting/encouraging have little effect and make him reverse at speed so if its safe to do so I simply sit there until he gets bored and moves forward, at which point I praise. Oddly if a cyclist/car/hiker comes past him, he is fine and then walks on like its now safe! In company, he is fine, but I've noticed he is being more reluctant than usual to take the lead.
I'm wondering whether he has lost a bit of confidence as he has only been on small rides all summer or he could just be completely taking the mick? He is an intelligent 19 yo ex eventer so really should know better.
I'm wondering whether he has lost a bit of confidence as he has only been on small rides all summer or he could just be completely taking the mick? He is an intelligent 19 yo ex eventer so really should know better.