Oakfields Milloco

23/05/2007

August 2010 - Rider on top

This photo was taken on the same day as the previous photo, Millie was going so calmly that she is now off the lunge and Mel is riding her freely around Rachael. As this is still very early on in her breaking, Mel has not taken up the reins and is working with Rachaels voice and whip position to direct Millie.

In the photo below Mel is sitting on Millie for just the second time. I think I can just see Millie watching Rachael (in pink) out of her inside eye. Mel is sitting very quietly and holding the neck strap - no rein contact at this stage.

July 2010 - Backing!

Well it's been over a year since we updated you about Millie. She's had plenty of handling since then, has been out in the box a few times and has been led around the farm.

We've taken her to watch other horses being ridden in the school, and gradually introduced her to being bitted and tacked up. So it wasn't too much of a surprise for her to move that one step on and be long reined in the outdoor arena. We then progressed to lunging.

As you can see from this picture - we've left the stirrups down so she gets used to the feel of something against her sides. She is in a thick rubber breaking snaffle and the reins are twisted and held out of the way by the throat lash.

We also worked with someone else riding in the school. Here you can see how Millie is listening to Rachel and ignoring the other horse.

The next step will be to have Mel leaning across her as Rachel leads her around. After that - well we've spoken to Barney to let him know that once again his invaluable services will be required as 'Escort and Mentor'!

Oakwood Park - April 2009

Millie's first party!

Accompanied in the lorry by resident ILPH pony - Barney. Our now two year old ventured out into the big wide world to Oakwood Park showground for her first outing and introduction of things to come! Shown in the capable hands of our Head Girl Rachael, Millie behaved impeccably to achieve a creditable 2nd  in the very large mixed inhand class.

Positive comments from the judge and perfect manners all day has inspired us to further her inhand career. Future outings to include Hunter and Sports Horse Youngstock classes at Edenbridge and Oxted.....