Today a new horse was presented for my morning hack ride around the farm.
His name was Mafnood, and he needed a crop.
I was told he likes to find patches of sand and roll in it. Even when a rider is on his back.
The presence of the crop gently reminds him that he can’t do that.
While riding, Mafnood enjoyed stopping to eat grass.
Yet, he requited minimal effort when asked to trot and cantor. His cantor was smooth as silk.
But did spook easily.
One time, he bolted, tossing my upper body back. I quickly shifted ahead to balance and gain control. I didn’t fall off.
That said, today’s ride was beautiful.
Goats were grazing under date palms. Oryx were in their desert oasis. Peacocks were strutting about as the warm sun glazed on us.
Back at the barn, I was nipped twice. My own fault.
First on the arm by a horse who decided he had enough of me playing with his mouth.
The second was Mafnood nipping me on the leg while I was leading him to his stall.
He wanted the carrots I had in my hand for him right then and there.
I went to see Farfoor. Peggy, the Director of the stables, told me Farfoor is a difficult horse to reach. I decided to back off and chose not to ride him. Instead, I will gain my confidence back on a horse that offers more stability, I will ask for Mafnood.
Next week, it looks like I have the opportunity to start bonding with Mafnood.
I will be riding him in the arena after work throughout the week. I’m not sure what this will look like. I just make a call to the stable, say I’m coming and want to ride Mafnood.
Till next week,
S, 🇶🇦
