Side-saddle

Today Buddy and I did something new. We had a go at side-saddle! I honestly wasn’t sure how it would go. But Buddy, once more, proved he really is an ‘all rounder’. He was bloody awesome! I, on the other hand, may need a few more sessions.

Given I’ve only had a go at side-saddle once before, and only in walk and trot, the fact we were cantering by the end of the lesson blew me away. My downward transitions weren’t great. Muscle memory kicked in and I tried to rise in the trot. But we definitely improved as the session went on.

The instructor was incredibly complementary about Buddy and my riding ability. The words ‘elegant’ were used. I’ll take that!

Saddle love

Looks like Hugo has decided to embrace side saddle today. He really does love sleeping on my dressage saddle. Made me giggle when I saw him perched on it.

Today is also 3 years since I bought my Fairfax jump saddle. I may have had a mild panic at the cost, but there hasn’t been a ride in it when I regret it. It’s still the most comfortable saddle I’ve ever ridden in.