Rock Amore

Introduction

Rocky is a well-educated allrounder with recent wins and placings in 50–65 cm eventing. His established flatwork, steady rhythm over fences and experience on the trails make him a versatile partner for a junior or adult amateur who wants to enjoy dressage, showing, low-level eventing and club activities.

Education, skills and experience

Rocky’s flatwork includes established lateral work, a balanced medium trot, reliable transitions from walk to canter and back to walk and flying changes on both reins. He works comfortably in a snaffle or double bridle and is happy to stretch long and low.

Over fences, Rocky is straightforward and rhythmic. He has helped a rider return to jumping and has schooled over both showjumps and cross-country fences. He is accustomed to trail riding, busy roads, farm machinery, livestock and dogs.

General demeanour under saddle

Rocky has more whoa than go and generally gives his rider what they ask of him. He is soft in the bridle, willingly collects and adapts to his rider’s ability. He tolerates mistakes and can feel a little lazy for a less experienced rider - which gives the rider a feeling of predictability and safety.

Rocky has no vices or quirks under saddle. He may occasionally have  a look at something - if startled by something, he will simply step sideways and then stand still. He remains safe at all times.

Current workload / fitness

Rocky is currently in work and ridden at least three times a week. His owner reports that he stays reliable without daily riding and is safe to get straight back on after a spell.

Handling

Rocky is calm and straightforward to handle. He is easy to catch, leads politely, ties quietly and tolerates handler mistakes. He self-loads and stands quietly when travelling in a float or truck.

He is easy to clip, reliable for the farrier and good for the vet. He is currently shod.

Feeding and management

Rocky receives hay twice daily, with a simple hard feed added during periods of heavier work. He can live out or be stabled for part of the day and is content in a herd, in an individual paddock or on his own.

Rocky is a mild windsucker. He does it when bored in a small yard or when tied up. A collar prevents this but is not necessary as the windsucking does not affect his health or condition. There is no scientific evidence to suggest that this behaviour is copied/ contagious (Dr Andrew Maclean/ Equine Dental Vets Australia). 

Medical history

Rocky is up to date with vaccinations and dental. He does not have any medical or management issues. A pre-purchase veterinary examination is welcome at the buyer’s expense.

Rider Suitability

Rocky would suit a confident novice plus rider. He is a kind, forgiving option for a child, junior or adult amateur riding under instruction who wants to consolidate their flatwork and enjoy lower level jumping, eventing, Pony Club, Adult Riding Club or trail riding.

Reason for sale

Rocky is offered for sale because his owner is relocating to a smaller property and has two young horses ready to be started under saddle.