Attractive gelding finding his new purpose in life. "Bourbon" is a tall, leggy gelding that was previously trained and shown as a main ring hunter pleasure mount as a junior horse. He's been to a handful of shows, but ultimately would be more competitive in a sport horse frame than as an Arabian hunter. However, he has had enough training and exposure to make it to the competitive scene, a valuable asset for anyone wanting to travel away from home and know that he has already seen the world.
Bourbon is currently learning how to stretch over his back and into the hand on the ground and under saddle. He is learning horsemanship concepts, as well as dressage principles to make some adjustments in movement and way of carriage. He is also learning about what it is like to be in more of a family environment, versus in a big show barn. He is absolutely enjoying his new lifestyle!
In addition to ring work and ground work, Bourbon is showing an exceptional aptitude for trail. He had done some trail riding in Arizona, but he really is shining on the mountain trails of northern California. He has seen deer and turkeys and remained calm. He never even batted an eye when the baby bear darted across the trail! He has been through extreme water crossings and showed lots of promise and a good attitude. He has trotted and cantered up hills and loved it! He has led, followed, and gone out solo with a marching walk and a reasonable demeanor. He may be a great long term trail option or endurance horse or use the trail work to blend in to his arena education.
Bourbon is looking for someone to continue him and finish him in the discipline of their choosing. He would prefer someone with some experience that can continue bringing on a forward, athletic young man. He wants a person that feels confident and that can keep the adventure fun with an independent seat and a forward thinking mind. If you are willing to continue on with this project, you will be happy with what he has to offer in return.
Bourbon is mannered leading, bathing, clipping, tying and trailering. He is mannered for the farrier and currently front shod. His hooves are hard and worthy of going barefoot, but we do have rough terrain in this area, hence shoes. He has been stalled and prefers a stall with a view and not a dark box. He has also been out to pasture and gets along well with others. He is current on vaccines, worming and does have a few clean x-rays on file (vet clinic was doing a discounted x-ray special, so I took advantage of it).
This is a gem for the right rider! If you think you might be that person, send me a message and let's see if it's a match! Ask about his video ;)