Polo pony to jumping pony...Advice?!

[Grey_Eventer]

So today I started re-training my brothers polo pony... in the pouring rain and thunder and lightning... what a day to start?!
He came from Argentina when he was a youngster (hes an Argentinian pony) and was then played by someone who plays for england, so he's a fairly talented little horse... we tried to sell both the polo ponies but no one is really buying and as my horse is out dad decided that I could have him instead of getting me a new one.
So today, in the pouring rain I schooled him over some poles- much to his enjoyment... are they meant to enjoy it so much? we had bucks and leaps afterwards- naught pony! Hes a really nice horse and I hope that soon enough he'll be a hunter and a possible eventer- we shall see! Im going to take it slowly though obviously
Any advice on this retraining process? I'm going to organise some lessons when hes moved to where my horse. He's a nice natured horse so fingers crossed he'll be something I can have some fun on!

 

[LEC]

Polo ponies are naturally brave - I know several who come out hunting and have taken to it very quickly and easily. They were also pretty mean little jumpers!

 

[nicola172]

I retrianed one last year, he did'nt take to it straight away but I worked hard on his flatwork and then the jumping came on in leaps and bounds!!!
Here are some pics!!
Polo action

1st Dressage Test

Jumping

He has been sold now to a polo/hunting home in the new forrest. I miss him loads!!!

 

[Grey_Eventer]

I retrianed one last year, he did'nt take to it straight away but I worked hard on his flatwork and then the jumping came on in leaps and bounds!!!
Here are some pics!!
Polo action
He has been sold now to a polo/hunting home in the new forrest. I miss him loads!!!

He looks fab! mine seems to be taking to the poles very well- not spooky at all and really enjoys it! Flatwork is obviously very early days- just getting him used to riding with two reins and a tweak on the rein and a squeeze with the leg means use your back and into an outline...not slam on the breaks!!!

 

[LaurenM]

I've had my polo pony for 5 weeks now. She's also from Argentina apparently and was also living in England. Can't fund any details of any matches she was in though.

She's ridden 6 days a week - schooled twice and hacked the rest. Couldn't get her to canter on left lead but that's improving. Need to be happy with that before we start jumping!

I agree that they tend to be bold but it doesn't mean to say she won't spook at odd things like a heather bush!

I'm sure you'll have loads of fun! I tend to get the bunny hops when she's confused about what she's doing. Also get a canter stride thrown into walk every now and again when she's fizzy. Lovely!