2014 APHA Mare
15 HH
“Jersey” has it all – a diverse resume, fancy buttons, a gentle demeanor and extensive miles!
Jersey is an experienced mountain horse - she has taken me to mountain tops, across rivers, up and down steep rocky hills and even gone swimming. She has been entrusted in taking care of a green riders for multiday trips through the mountains, never putting a foot out of line. She is unfazed with dogs underfoot or popping out from behind bushes and she is used to be loaded down with saddle bags, slickers, snacks and drinks for long day trips.
Jersey has been a key part of my program training my young horses as I’ve used her to pony colts, lead the way or just be a calming influence. She has also been ridden in obstacle play days: crossing bridges, under tarp curtains, popping over jumps, a bit of everything!
Jersey rides out alone from the farm without hesitation, taking care of her rider with no rush to go home. She has been ridden often bareback and in a halter, and she is very accustomed to patiently waiting while a rider mounts bareback. She has been ridden solo or in a group and is the same horse in either setting. She is fine with time off, and is the same horse you put away after the last ride.
Jersey has been used to teach lessons occasionally as well, helping new riders boost their confidence. She has taught multiple friends of mine to ride, always patient as they figure out their seat.
That being said – Jersey is no boring trail horse! She gives you the best of both worlds – babysitter for green riders, or fancy and responsive for experienced riders. Jersey neck reins, is very soft for any cues, moves off your leg and has a great stop. Pick up on the reins and she softly drops her head to collect. She collects, side passes, turns on forehand, turns on haunches. She’ll park at a stop with just the cue from your seat.
While I don’t envision Jersey as a ranch horse, she has worked cattle occasionally. The first cattle work of the season I take it slow to give her a refresher to her job as a cowhorse. This Easter weekend she was ridden in a 2 day 25 mile cattle drive to move 450 head.
While I do not have kids to ride her, I would certainly consider her kid’s horse material with her responsiveness and gentle disposition.
Jersey is a sweetheart –all around gem with a diverse resume, ready to excel with her new cowgirl.
