I don't think one can get all the spooks ever out
of a horse. Some spooks are easier to ride than others. I developed
the right handed death grip on the horn so I could stay on when those drop to
the ground, leap sideways 10 feet, take off in a dead run spooks occurred.
That was Maggie. I rode her for 15 years, got 6000 comp and end miles on
her, was aiming for 7000 when she bolted as I was getting on. I
somersaulted off of her, was very glad I didn't break my neck, decided that
enough was enough. I was too old to put up with this crap. I gave
her to a good home, and now ride the Fat Pony, who by the way, will spook out of
fun or out of fear. The big difference is that I can easily ride them so
my belly is not clamped in fear which didn't help with Maggie. Maggie was
absolutely the best horse I ever had for this sport. But as I have gotten
older, the fear of getting hurt has reared its ugly head. As I approach 70
the most important thing is for me to be safe. Thus the Fat Pony.
Jeanie
