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Saturday, April 23, 2016

Hacking Panda Out on the Grand Prix Field

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Friday I decided to ride out to the grand prix field since the weather was beautiful and there were no geese in sight.

I like getting out of the ring every once in a while, I think it's much easier to feel how the horse is moving their body when not influenced by the walls of an arena to guide them.

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Panda was pretty excited when we first started but it only took a couple laps around the field before she settled down and dropped into the bit. Riding outside really makes me focus on using my outside aids, especially since Panda is a little reluctant to turn away from home. It was good practice for me to guide with my leg and keep Panda from bulging out around the corners.

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I've also been trying to add in a little lateral work into each hack and Panda has been much more responsive to my leg after working on it. It's not perfect but she's much more willing to move off my leg than when I first started.


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Towards the end of the hack Robyn started getting really creative with the camera but I think these shots are really interesting.

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By the end of the hack Panda was pretty relaxed, even going towards the barn.

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I had no idea my breeches were this dirty...

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Overall it was a great day and I'm so happy to be able to ride such a lovely horse. There really isn't much that phases her and that really lets me focus on improving my riding technique without having to worry about the environment.

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No barn days are complete without spoiling Panda with some homemade horse treats. I haven't found a snack she won't eat, but I like to think she likes these ones the most.

Click here for my recipe for homemade "Rainbow" horse treats

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Hope everyone has a great weekend and makes the most out of this great weather.


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