|
Review content:
Try 1: Me and my 2 friends drove up to the farm. We knocked on the window, then waited literally 5 minutes for someone to come assist us. I was put on the ""stubborn horse who loves to run"" (Surge), while my friend was put on ""the kicker""(Poppy) while my friend with very little riding experience was put on ""the one who loves a good rider"" (GP). Everything was fine as our guide led us to the covered bridge. But very, very shortly after we parted things went down a very steep hill. I was in the lead with Surge, when he was spooked by high winds, and thorn bushes. None of the other horses wanted to lead, we spent an hour riding in circles. The only enjoyable part for me, was cantering back to the barn on a lovely horse. I doubt my friends had as much fun. The only person around when we returned was a man named Pat, who said we could go again for free.
Try 2: After calling numerous times that day, with no answer, we drove over, taking notice of the sign that said open 9-4 as we pulled into the driveway. After ringing several bells, we discovered the sign lied. A women there, who owned her own horse, said they often leave as early as 2, if business is slow. On those days the last ride goes out at 1.
Try 3: Going back for our free ride, determined not to be robbed of $90.00, we were hopeful. I requested to be put back on Surge, a favourite of mine. My friend was put on ""an old stubborn mare""(Valley) and my not-so-much-of-a-rider friend was put on ""a lovely mare who loves to follow""(Ella). As we were leaving the guide admitted to us the wrong bridle was on Valley, and her bit was bothering her. We got a guide to the bridge again, that part went lovely. To our surprise, with Surge in the lead we made it past the thin trail opening that stopped us before, but only 30 yards into the trail, I accidentally stopped my horse. Valley, who's bit was completely wrong, to the point of no control, and constant pain for the poor horse, took this as a perfect opportunity to charge back towards the barn. Ella, being a follower, charged after her. I kept my horse in control, but they weren't coming back. My friend had no control over Valley. After several emergency dismounts, circles, and scares. Valley began charging towards a frozen river. My poor friend's life was saved by the fact I had taught her an emergency dismount just seconds before. She had to walk her horse all the way up to the barn, and I didn't even get my canter with poor Surge.
We are very experienced riders, but so many bad things can happen with overfed, under-trained, and improperly tacked horses.
If you're an experienced rider who wants to take the risk, I don't discourage it. But ask for Surge, Ella, or Poppy, and don't be scared when they say Poppy's a kicker, she's not.
|