This was Nikki's REALLY big day ... she was ridden for the first time! After doing some more ground work with Nikki in the round pen this evening, our trainer Nichole Zupan decided Nikki was ready for her first ride. We put a halter on Nikki underneath the bridle so Alayne could help lead her from the ground while Nichole rode her.
In the video, Nichole has one foot in the stirrup and is lifting herself up to put weight on Nikki to get her used to this and also to see how she responds. Nichole had done this in the last couple of sessions so this was more of a refresher for Nikki. Then, as Alayne starts walking Nikki, Nichole swings herself into the saddle. No bucking and rearing here, folks -- just one calm blind filly and one talented young trainer. In just seven training sessions, Nikki is being ridden. I find that remarkable.
After riding her in the round pen for awhile, Nichole finally climbed off and said, "She's doing better than most horses do on their 5th ride!"
(Note: We had a breeze this evening, which the microphone picked up and amplified on the audiotrack. Sorry about that.)
I'm so jealous! Nikki is doing so well! Shes doing better then Jane who has been ridden for 45 years. I hope my next blind horse does as well as Nikki, she's such a good girl :)
Lauren
Posted by: Lauren Berrouard | May 14, 2006 at 09:57 AM
Yeah, Nikki, you're doing great! xoxo
Posted by: Roz | May 14, 2006 at 07:24 AM
What a great horse! It's a thrill to share these special milestones. Thanks for the blog.
Debbie
Posted by: Debbie Burke | May 12, 2006 at 06:32 PM
I am in awe of how calm Nikki is behaving with Nicole in the saddle! They are just an incredible team. I never would have imagined that the training would have gone so smoothly. Thank you so much for sharing this experience with those of us who aren't there. Hats off & huge hugs to Nikki & Nicole!
Posted by: ginger & Tobias (the greythound) | May 11, 2006 at 09:59 PM
Remarkable, indeed!
Nikki is so brilliant, pliable and patient with all and everyone. The video is wonderful; it really gives us an awareness of her personality. Nichole has done a great job of training her.
Happy trails to everyone!
Posted by: Leilani | May 11, 2006 at 07:37 AM