This little pony has so much heart! Summer has been eventful for Esme, filled with new experiences and learning opportunities. She earned her position as my riding partner at both the Spanaway and Ellensburg Buck Brannaman clinics, and she rose to each challenge beautifully.
Preparing for these larger clinics, I wanted to ensure I brought a horse who would truly benefit from the experience without being overwhelmed by the environment. As a trial run, I first took Esme to a clinic with our friend Joel Conner. This nearby clinic allowed us to test how she might react at Buck’s larger clinic in a less familiar setting. Esme handled it like a seasoned pro, staying calm and focused amid the new sights, smells, and sounds. This assured me she was ready for the next level, and a few weeks later, we headed to Buck’s clinics.
Each clinic brought its own unique challenges, which Esme met with grace and resilience.
Spanaway Clinic
Held in the Tacoma Unit’s bustling indoor arena, the Spanaway clinic was a test of concentration and composure. The arena was tight, with stadium seating and plenty of noise, requiring both Esme and me to stay vigilant to avoid any potential hazards. But Esme quickly settled into her stall, happily munching on her hay and showing no signs of stress. Each ride strengthened our connection, and, as often happens at Buck’s clinics, Esme gave me her best rides yet. Buck’s kind words of encouragement confirmed we were on the right track, and the supportive comments from friends made me proud of how far Esme has come through SAFE’s training program.
Ellensburg Clinic
The Ellensburg clinic, held outdoors at the Rodeo grounds, came with its own set of obstacles—especially the gusty winds that carried all kinds of distractions our way. Despite the challenges, Esme maintained her calm and focus. She wasn’t tense, and any hesitation was quickly redirected with gentle guidance. This clinic, held just one week after the Spanaway event, also tested her stamina. But Esme rose to the occasion, staying with me even when other horses increased their energy or unexpected movements caught her off guard. When other riders circled in different directions, weaving through the crowd improved her softness and responsiveness.
These clinics provided experiences we could never replicate at home, giving us the chance to work through any hidden challenges. I’m thrilled that Esme was at a place in her training where she could handle the added excitement and recover when things weren’t perfect. This summer has been an incredible milestone for Esme, and I’m so proud of the progress she’s made!
