Well all I can say is WOW! What a great mover this boy is! He has many “buttons” but it is strange, he feels like more like a robot than a horse that I am used to riding. All of the horses I ride check in with me while I ride. It feels like a dialog between two friends. It’s part energetic, part feel, and part I can’t explain. It feels strange no to have that with Orion. He did what I asked but in a stiff and obedient sort of way. Not sure how it comes thru on video, but watch for yourself.
After riding him, two thoughts came to mind. Get more connection and make heading towards bridle-less a goal! This will mean finding seat and leg cues that we agree on 100% of the time. Develop more flexion and bending in Orion so he can learn to self-carry instead of looking to me to collect him off of the bit. And help him find a reason to want to be connected to me, to join me in a fun partnership that we both enjoy! I have some work to do!!