Kirsten AL has been working with and riding Artie for the last several months, and back in June took him to the Buck Brannaman clinic in Ellensburg. Here’s what she has to say about the experience:
“This guy! Artie recently participated in the Buck Brannaman Foundations Clinic in Ellensburg, WA and he did not fail to impress. Calm. Cool. Collected. What a champ! From loading at SAFE, to walking around a huge arena filled with wind, clapping flags, metal bleachers and noisy stomping to tons of new horse friends – he kept his mind on the business at hand and paid close attention to the instructions given.
When arriving at E’burg, Artie was selected to “room” next to a pawing, whinnying mare and wasn’t phased a bit. Then onto getting saddled and into the arena for a first peek, we went. In hoping to explain Artie’s capabilities, it is important to note that this is my first time taking a horse to Buck’s clinic and Artie didn’t pick up on my jittery nerves. Artie’s demeanor helped me to focus and enabled me to be a better student. It felt like he was saying, ‘I’ve got you”!
During the skills portion of our work together, he confidently moved through united circle, hindquarters, stepping up to the wall, all forms of backing and even riding up to a trot with a soft feel. Artie has an incredible heart of compassion, care and connection. His stability in a new situation is beyond noteworthy and I’m hopeful that his forever family will cherish this guy!”
