XC very green horse?

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ApolloStorm

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Hi all,

I am currently riding a very green 9 year old TB, who is scared shitless of coloured poles, we are working (very slowly) on this. However once he has been over the poles once( the trouble is getting him over them), he is fine, he seems to really enjoy himself. Because he actually seems to enjoy doing the jumping, a friend and I went on a hack and we came across very small styles and a little log to jump, with the lead of another horse, he was throughly enjoying himself! Now, my question is, you think it is worth doing a little XC with him, maybe with my friend and going to a baby course. Water doesn't bother him, he loves it, though haven't had a chance to try trotting or cantering through water yet, but he walk very happily through it. I ask as I was thinking of trying a bit of Le Trec with him, the PTV phase is a little daunting!

Fanta and Oreos for getting this far !
 
that sounds like a great plan to bring him out. i did the same with my exracer and he enjoyed it. Keep them small and easy for him to build his confidence, and don't push him too much the first time.

What helped my lad get over his fear of poles, was loose schooling with a mare friend of his who loved jumping. he was much braver following her around, had to figure it out himself and actually enjoyed it. He really clicked that it was fun after a few sessions.
 
I have always found that how a horse reacts to coloured and XC fences is very different. My youngster also created about coloured poles then is fine. XC however he took much more in his stride. I would have a go, take a lead to begin with and then do it yourself.
 
Take him schooling with a brave and sensible horsey friend, be careful not to overface him and see how he goes. Some other things we have done with my green boy is doing some pairs XC (again with something sane), team chasing (taking it slow and steady with a focus on getting round and him having fun), and a couple of weeks ago he went to a Hunter Trial at a familiar course and went clear.

Have fun!

P
 
I would loose school, but we are not allowed at my yard. after a horse managed to jump over the barrier into the viewing area! My friends horse is Ex schoolie so is safe as houses, might bring her along! Thank you for the tips, I'll let yous know if had to got a and e or not!
 
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