As the days with my beloved horse Sol came to an end, I found myself in search of a new riding companion. Enter Tino, a horse who wasn’t my first choice, but nevertheless became an unexpected addition to my equestrian journey. This blog post chronicles my experiences with Tino, from the initial challenges to the moments of triumph and joy we shared together.
When I first encountered Tino, I wasn’t particularly enthused about riding him. However, I felt grateful to have something to ride, so I decided to lease him for a few months. Little did I know the physical demands and the conditioning struggles that awaited me. Tino arrived at the barn with minimal conditioning, which made riding him quite taxing and challenging. The first month tested my determination, and I contemplated giving up.
Despite the difficulties, I realized that I didn’t want to abandon the progress we had made. Encouraged by my trainer, I made the decision to purchase Tino and make him my own. It was a significant commitment that filled me with apprehension. Would I be able to handle the challenges that came with owning Tino? Only time would tell.
To my delight, Tino started to blossom in the following months. Witnessing his progress was incredibly gratifying. I discovered that Tino possessed remarkable intelligence and wit, which never failed to bring a smile to my face. Each day spent with him was filled with laughter and a unique bond that only horse and rider can share.
My anticipation grew as I prepared for our first show together – the Sonoma Horse Park. Competing in the A/A hunters, Tino showcased his true potential and exceeded my expectations. He performed admirably, placing in all his classes and even tolerated an adult medal class. Tino reveled in the opportunity to show off his skills and charisma, captivating everyone who watched.
As I reflect on our journey so far, I am filled with eagerness for the upcoming 2020 horse show season. Our first stop will be The Northern California Winter Classic. With Tino by my side, I am excited to face new challenges, experience more moments of triumph, and continue nurturing our bond.
The story of my time with Tino is a testament to the rollercoaster ride that is horse ownership. From the initial doubts and physical strain to the moments of growth and pure joy, Tino has proven to be an unexpected but rewarding companion. Our journey is still ongoing, and I am grateful for the experiences we’ve shared. Tino has shown me that sometimes, the most fulfilling relationships are forged when we embrace the unexpected. Here’s to many more adventures with my beloved Hanoverian, Tino!
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