Horsemanship, what is it?

  Top responses on Google,  it is a term that encompasses the training, care, and riding of horses. It could also be the art of riding on horseback and skill in riding horses.

Could it also be the growth in a relationship between a horse and its rider?  Why do I ask?  I just read an article that referenced the question,  “What level of rider is this horse suitable for?”  The response in the article was the best rider they can get.  The article went on to say, the horse will only ever be as good as the rider.

That seems like a statement I may resemble.  I am in my mid fifties and I just started really riding 10 years ago.  My first horse was a 16 year old gelding. He did well with a rider who knew what they were doing. The gelding did ok with me, but not great.  I was just not that rider.  I wanted to be that rider.  I had a love for the horses, a passion one might say,  but not the experience.  I could climb in the saddle, hold onto the reins and saddle horn, but I did not get the desired result.  I would get nervous. The horse would get nervous.   I did not want to get hurt and I did not trust myself or the horse. 

Over the years, I purchased several other horses that were in their teens.  Same results, others could ride them with minimal issues. I could get along with those horses to an extent, however not at all like I wanted to.  What's the common denominator?  Me, inexperienced.

As with lots of things in life, until you look at things from a different perspective you may never learn or understand what you need to know.  Education, experience, and opportunity are some key elements in the learning process. I am constantly searching for them all.

I have many horsemen mentors in my life.  They may not know who they are to me, but I do.  They have a wealth of knowledge that they readily share and I am grateful for all that they do. 

4 years ago, I purchased a two year old filly.  This filly and I had a couple of things in common.  We shared the same birthday in May and we were both inexperienced.  I named the filly Cinco.

The individual I bought the horse from agreed to take the time to educate me over the next few weeks.  With his help and direction, I got the first ride on Cinco before I brought her home.

Cinco and I have built a bond over the last four years.  She is the best.  By far my favorite horse.   I believe she will be my forever horse.  Her shortcomings are my shortcomings, her successes are my successes.  I have learned a great deal over the years and in the same breath, barely scratched the surface.  I am going to try to be the best rider for my horses that I can be.  I believe Cinco trusts me and I definitely trust her.  She is my go to girl!

This is my journey, I bet you have one too.  #itsyourjourney