Following lateral work with a forward pace will encourage engagement of the quarters. An ideal beginner exercise would be to leg yield to the track, or away if suitably on the aids, on reaching your desired spot, I.e. the track, or the quarter line, ask for canter, then ride the canter forward onto a circle to maintain balance. During the circle ride a forwards trot transition and repeat the leg yield again. After a few attempts you should hopefully find instead of slowing and backing off from the leg yield, the horse is thinking forwards and should take longer steps from behind. This exercise can be altered to suit the level you are currently working at, for example instead of leg yield, try shoulder in to medium trot. 

Welcome Hugo!

Our Stud has seen an addition to its family!

On the 9th April 2013, Boothsdale Dawnus AKA Dinky, gave birth to a beautiful Colt foal who we have named Hugo, or to give him his correct name: Jamaras Hugo the Boss.

Hugo was born at 11.20am in the morning, following a very quiet pregnancy. Dinky has had a foal previously so she is a pro and had no problem delivering him.

I was so lucky to be there for the birth, and even managed to video the whole process!

Hugo is by Tillybo Merlyn, a wonderful bay stallion who stands at the Boothsdale stud. His progeny have done extremely well in the show ring, and with Dinkys pedigree, we are very excited about the future for Hugo.

Hugo should go grey like mum, and already has some great bone and substance, very true to type.

I shall endeavour to keep you updated on Hugo's progress.