This was Nikki’s REALLY big day … she was ridden for the first time! After doing some more ground work with Nikki in the round pen this evening, our trainer Nichole Zupan decided Nikki was ready for her first ride. We put a halter on Nikki underneath the bridle so Alayne could help lead her from the ground while Nichole rode her.
In the video, Nichole has one foot in the stirrup and is lifting herself up to put weight on Nikki to get her used to this and also to see how she responds. Nichole had done this in the last couple of sessions so this was more of a refresher for Nikki. Then, as Alayne starts walking Nikki, Nichole swings herself into the saddle. No bucking and rearing here, folks — just one calm blind filly and one talented young trainer. In just seven training sessions, Nikki is being ridden. I find that remarkable.
After riding her in the round pen for awhile, Nichole finally climbed off and said, "She’s doing better than most horses do on their 5th ride!"
(Note: We had a breeze this evening, which the microphone picked up and amplified on the audiotrack. Sorry about that.)
Rolling Dog Farm Blog 
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