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Rico was gathered as a 6-month-old foal through the Forestry (not BLM), so he is not branded or titled. He came off a Nevada range band and spent the next 2.5 years growing up in Coarsegold, CA.
In April 2023, his current owner purchased him as a 3-year-old, bringing him home to Auburn, CA where he spent the following year being thoughtfully handled on the ground, well-loved, and allowed to mature before being started under saddle. He went into professional training for 90 days in November 2024.
Due to unforeseen medical procedures, his owner was unable to continue riding after he returned home in February 2025. Throughout 2025, Rico was ridden intermittently by a few different riders, and I began working with him once a week in the fall of 2025.
After careful consideration, it was decided that at this stage, Rico was a bit more sensitive and spooky than his owner was looking for, and he was turned out for the winter to just be a horse again until March 2026.
Since arriving in my sale program, I’ve had the absolute pleasure of getting to know Rico—and he’s the kind that sneaks right into your heart ♥️ . The more time you spend with him, the more there is to love.
He is willing, incredibly intelligent, kind, and has those soft, soul-searching eyes that will win you over. A dark, handsome (not-so-tall) drink of water. 😉
The details:
• Trailers, ties, and stands well for the farrier
• Barefoot and sound
• Comfortable in both stall and pasture
• Gets along appropriately with mares and geldings (but doesn’t share meals)
• One of the most comfortable trots you’ll sit; his canter is coming along nicely with continued time and consistency
On the trail, Rico can be a bit on the spooky side. When he does spook, his typical response is a quick freeze and process…. On occasion he has pulled a 180 and regroup—but is not the running off type. He’s actually quite good about coming back mentally and doesn’t tend to hold onto the anxiety. Bicyclists moving quickly are currently his least favorite thing, but he tries and will continue to improve with a steady, confident rider.
Rico will thrive with a confident, composed rider who can continue building his confidence and education. He has the potential to be a really fun partner for working equitation, trail trials, or simply logging miles and enjoying the journey together.
He’s had the benefit of time—both physically and mentally without being rushed—and he’s ready to find his person to continue that journey with.
https://youtu.be/yjq0R1WOY7k
https://youtu.be/h46PSAFyQcw
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