Quarterly Update
Ah, it’s been…more than a few weeks since I’ve been able to write an update. Life has, on a large scale, taken a turn unexpected.
The abridged version of thing is that in under a month’s time, Factor and I will be moving closer to Vermont, bringing me closer to family in the process. Those details as they are, what really matters is looking to the future and starting to create a sense of purpose.
But such as the twists of life, and though there is a lot I could unpack, I’d rather turn my attention to my horse.
Factor waiting for our ride
Factor has really started to blossom as a young sport horse.
He’s truly beginning to understand his own momentum and self carriage, especially in the last few weeks. His ability to get his hind end underneath himself is starting to really show through his trot work, lateral work, and general flexibility of gaits.
Over the summer, we have established a great routine of lessons, fun rides, and adventures. Factor has jumped a small cross rail (for fun, and because it was up), we have gone hacking out alone multiple times, and even have gone cantering on the dirt racetrack on the farm (oh my gosh!).
Perhaps the best news so far, though has been the improvement to Factor’s feet.
We took new radiographs at the end of July, and compared them to the originals in October. Since October 2020, he has transition successfully to a beautifully barefoot young horse who working four-five days a week and is able to travel over surfaces of most varieties without feeling ouchy. His overall sole depth has increased, and his Plantar angle (hind feet) has increased from 0* to almost 2* - this change has caused a noticeable improvement in Factor’s hip and hind leg strength as well…not to mention it really gives some oomph to his engine!
Can’t say enough how grateful I am to the village it has taken to support him as he has transitioned into a beautiful young sport horse, but without their efforts and guidance he would not be where he is today. We get compliments on his way of going all the time now, and it’s so satisfying to see efforts rewarded after just six months under saddle.
Looking ahead, at the end of this month we’ll be moving more west from where we are now, returning to a farm I used to lease a horse from to train under the eventing instructor there. We will continue to journey back to Crystal, though, as her instruction has proved invaluable so far for my guy learning life as a Dressage horse (and my position…). Before we go, Silke Rembacz is coming to the area again, and we have a chance to ride with her. Then, after our move, Factor and I have our first schooling show! We’ll only be in the intro classes, but the experience will be great for him.
More on that soon, though admittedly I’m unlikely to make a post again before we move.