Mallow - Our Superstar

Mallow - 14.2hh Connemara 2004 (15yrs)

This star came to me as a livery many years ago & when his owner decided to sell, I was only too happy to buy him with the lessons in mind. However, if he was taller, without a doubt I would have kept him for myself!

2013 - Ravensdale

Firstly, he is the dream school pony... go lead or behind, pick his own stride to a fence, easy steered & good off the leg (even little ones!) ... he's so willing & honest! And, just to mention that of late, he is does all this with the absence of a bit! What a champ!!!

Over the years, many riders (myself included) have had a pleasure of competing him...Showjumping, Hunter Trials & Mini One Day Events etc. However, at an event, the quiet pony that we see in the school becomes a distant memory... he is NOT for the faint hearted! Kindly though, his infamous squeal of excitement warns his rider of the impending 'hoopla' and as a result, he has taught many riders to be brave, strong & always prepared!!!

His one flaw (he's entitled to it I know)... is catching him. A mission that has often taken me HOURS!

On one occasion, with the trailer in the field, my strategy was to load his buddies first so that in theory, not wanting to be left behind, he would be an easy catch right? WRONG!

After what must have been an age of going round in circles, me issuing him with empty threats of an eternal life in a stable (with a few expletives thrown in of course), I sat on the ramp of the trailer close to defeat. We were at an impasse.

He then slowly approached me, walked by me... and proceeded to load himself into the trailer, leaving me with tears of joy & exhaustion!

Evidently, in each other we have met our match when it come to stubbornness. However, we now have an understanding. He knows that I am simply not leaving the field without him & I know that a bucket of feed needs to be present. This is very important, Polos won't do, nor carrots, not even a hand full of feed. Only feed in a bucket will do...He must have the bucket! Nowadays, we can still be seen taking a short stroll in the field, but then he'll turn in to me. Once this happens, there's no more messing & he of course gets the bucket.

If you wish to bring him treats, this is the face you will see. He requests Original polo mints only please... spearmint will not accepted!:)

While he has tested my patience in the field & has made many hearts stop a time or two with his antics, these little quirks are all part of his character & I can wholeheartedly say, I wouldn't change a single bit of it!

Sarah xxx