Nittany Equestrian

Great day at the Lower Trail in Alexandria with friends!! #PollyPocket hasn't done much all year but was very brave and enjoyed herself. She thinks the other two should walk faster though! #mareonamission #maresofinstagram #maresrulegeldingsdrool #ottbsofinstagram #newstartottb #rttcpa #lowertrail

True Words: Let’s talk about the lack of quality coaching and lack of standards in the equine industry. For example, kids learning with someone who claims to be... an "coach" and all they learned is how to see-saw a horse's head down and chuck their body over a fence like a champion. All coaching is not equal. But what happens when you have a good coach? One that opens their program to you, takes you under his/her wing? Becomes invested in your success? When you essentially become part of the "family"... Eventually, something will happen... Coach tells you that you are not Karen O'Connor 2.0, and not ready to make the move up to the next level. Coach says you need to go back and fix some holes in your training. Coach says you have developed a bad habit, and it needs to be fixed before you can accomplish your goals. Coach says you need to make sure that your horse is being ridden (not just hanging out at the barn). Coach says you need to dedicate more time to studying the sport, not just riding. Coach says it isn't a "horse" problem, it is a "you" problem. People have become increasingly more reactionary. More easily offended. In lieu of everyone getting a trophy, it is so hard to hear these words from people you admire. Some of the best coaches will be the toughest. Not ones that tear you apart constantly, but coaches that aren't afraid to have the tough conversations with you. Or conversations that you may not have wanted to have. But remember, a good coach is in YOUR corner. They want YOU to achieve success. They dedicate so much more than an hour of time to your growth not only as a rider but as a horseman. Maybe you are burning the candle at both ends (and in the middle), and you need a reality check that this sport requires more of your time and focus. These conversations can hurt, but while it may sting at first.... take a second. Think about why your coach is against you moving up right now, why your coach is saying to wait until the summer to be a working student, why your coach is saying that you should not enter the show until the homework and flat work is done. Surround yourself with coaches that aren't afraid to have these tough conversations with you. You don't want or need a "cheerleader" coach. You are paying you for your coach’s expertise... the positives and the criticism. Let them help make the best decisions for your horse, and for your program. The lessons on the horse and the lessons off of the horse. Are you ready? Are you doing what is best by your horse? You owe it to yourself and your horse.... *** Copied and modified from Courtney Sendak

Got some snuggle time with the old man today...which really meant a lot of him scratching his head on me #semiretired #hearthorse #quarterhorse #chestnutsarethebestnuts

Truer words cannot be spoken!!

Who needs a super friendly 2 yr old pony filly?! This nose needs a job and to find her person! #ponyofinstagram #welshcob #hunterjumper #pocketpony #ponyforsale

Are you looking for your next huntseat prospect? It can be found in this oversized package. Its All About Babe "Babe" is carrying your next ride. Bred to CBS W...hitecollar Ride for a mid March baby. You can then breed her back to your stud of choice. Babe has proven herself with many AQHA points in open, amateur, and youth. 17.1. Selling as broodmare sound only. 5 panel negative. Pm for more info. **SOLD** See more

#nationaldayofthehorse Here's just a few of my favorites

Horse Training Tip of the Week. Do crazy stuff often! Bonus points if you can get your horse to roll it's eyes at you Sandy is learning to accept our insanity and her previous anxiety about ridden work is getting much better #horsetraining101 #chestnutmaredontcare #rehabretrainrehome #poniesofinstagram #eventersofinstagram #formerlyknownascrackpot

Sawyer is excelling in his new home! Can't wait to see all the fun things they get up to in 2021!! Love being able to make new friends and follow my horses into in their new lives #oldenburg #rehabretrainrehome #lovemyjob #eventing

I always hear people talking about age in regards to horses - oh he’s 12 years old, past his prime now, I need something younger. I bought Gala when he was 19... years old - people thought I was crazy. I showed him in the 1.30m’s - and winning - when he was 22. I bought Stavi in the late summer when he was 16 - and I think it’s safe to say he’s pretty fucking incredible- I can’t even begin to list his accomplishments- and the most impressive on that list are from when he’s been 20 and 21 - including clear rounds in FEI classes, winning 1.40m classes, placing in 1.45-1.50m Grand Prix’s - round after round and all I get asked is um I’m sorry, he’s how old??? I do understand people’s fears buying the older horse, but I can’t even begin to state how it has been the single best decision for my riding career. I’ve been called the old horse whisperer by a few people. But if your willing to take the risk, those old horses whisper back, and let me tell you they know a hell of a lot more than I do. And if you are quiet, they will teach you more than you could possibly hope to understand. Never be afraid to buy the older horse.