Don't have a warmblood budget, but don't want an OTTB? Looking for hunter movement and an exceptional brain? Meet Eliza.By All The Wild Details and out of a Sir Norfleet mare, this elegant 5-year-old chestnut stands a solid 16.1H with a beautiful uphill build, naturally floaty movement, and the kind of mind that's incredibly difficult to find.Known around the barn as "Eliza," she quickly becomes everyone's favorite for all the right reasons. She is quiet, honest, affectionate, and incredibly rideable. While no horse is truly "spook-proof," Eliza is about as close as they come.What sets this mare apart is her dependable, "been there, done that" mentality. She has been extensively trail ridden and hauled all over. She's been to the beach, camping, through the woods, shown in multiple venues, and ridden in countless different arenas. She confidently crosses water, walks over bridges and logs, rides bareback, and couldn't care less about tarps, flags, or other obstacles.Eliza has won numerous year-end all-around buckles and was successfully shown by a junior rider as both a two- and three-year-old. She is proficient in showmanship and has dabbled in horsemanship as well. As a four-year-old, she was loaned to a local IEA hunter/jumper program, where everyone quickly discovered her love for jumping. She became a favorite among the students thanks to her forgiving nature, dependability, and willingness to always do her job. She is naturally forward to the fence while remaining soft in your hand and always honest to the jump. She has primarily been teen-owned and raised, living at home and hauling in for lessons and shows—that's how DIY-friendly she is!On the ground, Eliza is every bit as enjoyable as she is under saddle. She has no mare-ish tendencies, is easy to catch, tie, clip, load, and haul, and requires no lunging or prep before riding. Pull her out of the stall, tack up, and go. No buck, rear, bolt, ear-pinning, sour attitude, or cold-backed behavior—just a willing mare with an outstanding work ethic and a sweet personality. Under saddle, she offers the movement everyone wants. She has a huge, hack-winning trot, a balanced and comfortable canter, and an adjustable stride. She is currently schooling 2' to 2'3" with plenty of scope for the 2'6" divisions as she progresses. Her lead changes are well started and should be straightforward to finish. She never questions a fence and is exceptionally brave. Like many talented young horses, she can become a little more forward to decorative fences with fill, so she'll benefit from a balanced, competent rider to continue her education.Eliza would be an outstanding partner for a handy junior or confident adult amateur looking for a competitive local hunter or jumper. She would also excel as a fox hunter, western dressage prospect, or simply a beautiful, dependable trail horse.
If a truly good brain is at the top of your wish list, this mare deserves your attention. More info/vetting/videos: lbequine.n