~Hanz The Thoroughbred: Episode 7~

“A horse knows the strength of standing tall, no matter how many times it falls.”

~Unknown~

In this chapter of Hanz The Thoroughbred, Hanz and I experience a different set of challenges set us back for a while. We never lost any faith, but had a lot to learn about horse management. We journeyed on a new adventure and have been experiencing a new home, and much much more.

It’s been a while since my last blog update, and so much has unfolded on Hanz’s journey that I’m struggling to gather my thoughts on what to share. I believe my last update was in January, and I can’t believe we’re already in July. So far this year, spring and summer have brought tremendous growth in my horsemanship and training with Hanz. To cover everything I want to share, I may have to skip over some of the longer details.

February arrived, bringing with it a whisper of warmth that barely tempered the chill, yet it awakened my anticipation for the adventures ahead. North Carolina never fails to thrill, its unpredictable weather urging me to remain ever-prepared. After a good discussion with my trainer, the moment we had been waiting for had come at last. Hanz and I embarked on our inaugural off-property journey at a Pinehurst Dressage Schooling Show, held at the magnificent Pinehurst Harness Track. The experience was nothing short of exhilarating! Though we were there as a “Guest Horse,” and not competing, we soaked up the atmosphere and grew as a team. Hanz buzzed with excitement, a mix of eagerness and nerves bubbling over as we ventured into this new territory. I devoted the first hour to ground work, nurturing his comfort and confidence amidst the vibrant surroundings. His eyes sparkled with curiosity as he absorbed every sight and sound, and under my guidance, he gradually relaxed into the experience. With a surge of excitement after our groundwork session, I saddled up and prepared Hanz for the ride. The grounds, dotted with Dressage rings, ushered in a great tone and atmosphere where riders of all ages honed their skills, and Hanz, eager and spirited, stood ready to ride. My mind raced with psychological strategies and relaxation techniques, striving to keep him focused. In his heart, Hanz was a true gem, neither rude nor unruly, simply embracing the challenge of a show environment. With a twinkle of excitement and perhaps a hint of disappointment, I opted to let Hanz stroll the property at a walk as we found our confidence and relaxation amidst the “show vibe.” It was an unforgettable first time out, and I eagerly await the day Hanz will experience the thrills of the horse park in Southern Pines as we dive into the world of eventing together.

In April, Hanz experienced another victory that I believe will greatly benefit him in the future. My custom-fitted Erreplus monoflap saddle arrived, marking an exciting moment for me as Hanz’s owner and rider. Our saddle fitter removed the saddle from her truck and handed it to me right in the parking lot of the barn. It was beautifully wrapped in its saddle cover, and I could already smell the exquisite, fresh leather that comes with a brand-new saddle. The saddle features a 16-inch seat (yikes, I’m tiny!), a slightly more forward flap for my longer legs, a medium-width tree tailored for Hanz, and synthetic wool flocked panels that allow for customization to fit Hanz’s back perfectly. In my opinion, having the right-fitting saddle is crucial; it’s one of the most vital components of a horse’s setup that can significantly impact their comfort. I decided to invest in a custom-fitted saddle, understanding that while it doesn’t guarantee a perfect fit—since horses can change shape dramatically over time—it is undeniably the best way to get as close as possible to the ideal fit. Hanz’s previous Black Country saddle simply wasn’t a good match for him and began to create issues as his topline evolved. This was largely because our plan for his topline growth wasn’t unfolding as expected, and he wasn’t adapting to the medium-wide tree. Although this was unfortunate, I felt reassured by the fact that the Erreplus saddle features a tree that is 100% moldable to the horse’s shape, even after manufacturing, giving me greater confidence in this choice for the long term. The saddle arrived in a deep, dark brown leather, accented with black trim piping on the rear. I couldn’t be happier with how it turned out!

With all this being said about Hanz’s new saddle, his recent show, and the warmer weather on the horizon, I felt a surge of confidence in our next steps as a riding team. Unfortunately, dark clouds loomed, and a new storm was on the horizon that I would soon need to navigate. Around May, with the support of many wonderful equestrian friends and family, I noticed troubling changes in Hanz’s behavior under saddle and a decline in his overall condition. It had been over six months since I purchased him, and I was acutely aware of the condition he was in at that time. I had all the data, yet concern began to creep in regarding several aspects of Hanz’s management. He grew increasingly resistant under saddle, exhibiting strange behaviors such as becoming restless during grooming and avoiding being caught by his trainer and their staff. My worries for my horse intensified. Acting as any devoted horse owner would, I called in the vet at the first opportunity. Every night, I lay awake, fearing the worst for my beloved horse. “What if this is it?” I questioned, mentally and emotionally preparing myself for devastating news. After a thorough vet examination and much quarreling among everyone involved, Hanz was officially diagnosed with mild grade ulcers and Lyme disease. Initially, I felt a wave of relief that a permanent injury was not the cause of his troubles. However, I was also heartbroken to learn that my horse had contracted Lyme disease. While curable with medication, I was struck by the realization that I could have intervened much sooner. The guilt of not being more vigilant about the growing symptoms felt overwhelming, and I couldn’t shake the feeling that I had let my horse down.

Lyme disease can be quite elusive when it comes to horses. Some may exhibit no symptoms at all, while others reveal pronounced clinical signs of the illness. This makes accurate diagnosis exceptionally challenging. Hanz’s principal symptom was a noticeable loss of topline and muscle mass, despite my consistent riding and training sessions with him almost 4-5 days a week. We were all baffled as to why he was losing such significant topline in the first place. I initially attributed it to saddle and fitting issues, while my close friends and relatives disagreed. Once his positive test result for Lyme disease came back, we immediately commenced treatment for both ulcers and Lyme with GastroGard and Minocycline for 30 days. At that point, I chose to give Hanz all the time he needed to rest and simply return to being a horse. My concern for his wellbeing weighed heavily on me; we place so much strain and expectation on these incredible creatures. Don’t they deserve our love and respect at the very least?

Hanz began treatment and took his medications like a true champion. He never refused or gave any of the staff a hard time while taking his meds. Every day, I went to the barn to groom and spend quality time with my horse, ensuring he was well cared for. Those long days were filled with purpose, as I decided to give Hanz as much time as possible to rest and relax, choosing not to ride for the entire month of May. Each night, I returned home, covered in dirt, sweat, and stress, grappling with an uncertain future. While uncertainty is a constant companion, we often feel too secure in our growing confidence—only to be humbled by life’s enigmatic twists. I would lie awake for hours at night, replaying rides, hacks, grooming sessions, and groundwork, desperately seeking any shred of evidence or behavior that might have offered a clue earlier. In the simplest terms, May was a challenging month. Yet, the beacon of hope that kept me going was the wonderful realization of what an amazing horse Hanz is and how fortunate I am to spend time with such creatures. Even breathing the same air as them often feels like a treasure.

After May came to a close and Hanz completed his round of treatment with Minocycline and Gastrogaurd, his health began to take a welcome U-turn. He started to gain weight, and his topline began to show a more normal musculature for his level of work. His coat appeared healthier and shinier, and he seemed more relaxed than ever, finally behaving like himself. By early June, I faced the difficult decision to move Hanz to a new barn. With him battling Lyme disease and ulcers simultaneously, I believed this was the best choice for his wellbeing. A responsible horse owner always prioritizes their horse above personal ego, anxieties, or greedy ambitions. The challenging task lay before me: to find a facility that would better suit his needs. Raleigh, NC, isn’t particularly known for equestrian sports, especially eventing. What was I supposed to do? “Pick up the phone!” I thought as I struggled to find answers. I reached out to everyone I knew for recommendations on a new place to take my horse. As luck would have it, after several emails and phone calls, I toured a beautiful facility outside of Raleigh that seemed promising.

I was contacted by the owner, who mentioned that she had a waitlist but was willing to connect me with her barn manager at that time. “It’s always worth a shot, and you never know what great connections you might make,” I thought as I accepted the invitation. On a warm Saturday morning around 10:30 AM, I arrived in my Honda at a stunning facility, greeted by a gravel parking lot that led me to not one, but several beautiful barns on the property. A kind lady approached me, and we began discussing my horse. She graciously gave me a tour of the barn, showcasing the multiple tack rooms and numerous stalls, all impeccably maintained by the staff. I felt a genuine connection during our conversation and believed I had made a fantastic impression. I was truly blown away by the facility; it was not only beautiful but also within my budget. After several hours exploring the barn, the fantastic cross-country field, and the various riding rings available to boarders, I was offered a spot on the waitlist, which I eagerly accepted. Weeks passed, feeling like a decade, but as luck would have it—almost as if destiny had pulled a string with my good old friend fortune—I received a call that a spot had opened up for me at Quail Roost. Without hesitation, I accepted and coordinated shipping, ready to move Hanz to his new home by mid-June.

Hanz arrived at his new home in mid-June at the beautiful Quail Roost facility in Rougemont, NC. Nestled just north of Durham, NC, which sits adjacent to Raleigh, this location felt like a stroke of luck for me. The barn was conveniently similar in distance to my home as his old barn in Sanford. It was here that Hanz began to reveal his true character and inherent class as a remarkably gifted horse. As I led him off the trailer and into the open gravel parking lot, Hanz stood absolutely still, his curiosity evident but with his ears perked forward, eagerly waiting for what was to come. Unlike many horses who express anxiousness during a move, he calmly waited for my guidance. Hanz’s trust in me as his caretaker and owner was steadily deepening. He followed me with poise into the barn, navigating the tight entrance door and stepping into his brand new stall, as if he had belonged there his entire life. I promised Hanz I would be right back while I finished my last arrangements with the shipper, my excitement bubbling over for Hanz. There was something unique in the air, a warm embrace of history and experience that radiated professionalism and invited growth for anyone who sought to be better as an equestrian. The remainder of the day was devoted to allowing Hanz to settle in, ensuring he felt comfortable in his new surroundings—a crucial step for his happiness and safety, establishing a positive association with his new home.

Within the next few weeks, I arrived at the barn every day, ecstatic to meet new people and make friends. The community was lovely; everyone genuinely cared for their horses in a way that was truly heartwarming. Many had not just one but several horses, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Right from the start, I felt at home. Most riders were eventers, while others participated in hunters and dressage, and I quickly discovered a shared passion with them all. It was inspiring to be surrounded by dedicated riders of all ages, each committed to their equine companions. After just a short time at the new barn, the manager felt confident enough to introduce Hanz to his new herd, leading him into a sprawling, lush pasture filled with vibrant grass and fantastic pasture mates. Hanz was overjoyed. As we walked him to his new friends, the experience was seamless. Hanz displayed true class, exhibiting utmost relaxation and confidence as he touched noses with his four-legged companions. They welcomed him with open arms, displaying neither excessive squealing nor aggression, a rare and wonderful experience. I was truly amazed; introducing a new horse to a herd can often lead to friction or drama as they establish their pecking order, but this was pure harmony.

I was filled with happiness and relief for my horse. What amazes me about horses is that they are often referred to as “Divine Mirrors.” What you give to a horse is often what they will reflect back to you—a beautiful lesson about life. Horses are exceptionally attuned to their environment and their owners, an experience that is often inexplicable to those unfamiliar with them. As I am, so is my horse; I believe the most genuine way to help a horse relax and build confidence is to embody confidence and relaxation within myself. While I may not be able to overpower a horse—and I shouldn’t even attempt to—I can teach them how to behave and how to feel happy and self-assured. My horse has taught me that I am capable, trustworthy, and that I should be kinder to myself. They’ve taught me to feel more confident, brave, and secure in myself as well. All they truly desire is the presence of a confident individual caring for them. I often find myself pondering that very question: Can I provide that for them? Within a week or so, I felt ready to hop back in the saddle. I led Hanz into the cross ties at his new barn, and to my amazement, he handled it with ease. I saddled him up, feeling as though our moment had finally arrived.

During my time off while I let Haz take a break, I engaged in profound reflection on my riding. My obsession with various aspects of biomechanics and their influence on the horse’s way of going became strikingly more clear. With Hanz seemingly on the mend, I recognized a golden opportunity for improvement—not just for myself, but for the sake of my horse. I wholeheartedly committed to overhauling my approach, transforming my riding, thinking, and feeling. In those initial rides at the new barn, I finally discovered the flow into the bit that I had been seeking. I realized that my fixation on their hind legs had led me to ride in an unusual way, causing me to hang back. This shift makes Hanz move away from the bit instead of toward it. Consequently, he lifts his head above the vertical, his back sinks down, his hind legs disengage, and the cycle I had been striving to establish in strengthening his topline disappears faster than my attempts to create it. Much like an artist who fully comprehends their intent within their medium, a single thought, idea, or image in the mind significantly influences the outcome. John Lennon was right: “Reality leaves a lot to the imagination.”

After basic flatwork and riding, Hanz was in a stellar and fantastic mood. He was forward and happy to be in a new place. I was amazed at how quickly and well Hanz was adjusting to his new life. I began one day with a solid 10-minute warm-up on a loose rein, initiating a relaxation exercise. Hanz knew exactly what we were doing. I worked on some leg yields to the outside in the grassy area in front of the two main arenas. He happily obliged, moving off my inside leg to the outside rein. During this time, I steadily picked up my reins. “One inch at a time, and in sync,” I thought as I eased into a soft but present contact. I envisioned Hanz riding forward and connecting with the bit, allowing every ounce of energy and motion to travel seamlessly to my hands. Remarkably, Hanz connected beautifully, reaching for the bit, staying on the vertical, and seeking contact without me needing to force it by cranking on his head. He reminded me of the horse I tried when I was shopping. I was beaming with excitement inside, remaining as calm as possible to prevent spooking Hanz away from our good ride. Hanz was genuinely connecting. I was thrilled, and after our ride, I noticed Hanz producing saliva and foam in his mouth— a good sign indicating he was working correctly into the bit, relaxed in his jaw, and comfortable with the contact rather than being “forced into a frame.” Our first real ride in over a month was a resounding success in my book. I happily dismounted, showered Hanz with pats, and rewarded him with as many treats as he could handle.

Hanz’s new adjustment to his barn was going exceptionally well; it felt like a total dream. After a few enjoyable rides at his new home, I was invited by some of the other riders to join them on a hack around the property, and I was thrilled to say yes. Connecting with fellow equestrians is crucial for cultivating a sense of community, especially in such a challenging sport where having reliable friends truly makes a difference. As the saying goes, it takes a great village—or army, depending on how you want to look at it! We set off in a small group of three riders, making our way down the main driveway that led to additional houses on the property. Everyone was friendly and kind, greeting one another warmly. Just ahead of our meeting point, we continued down another road. Tuning in to Hanz’s behavior, I noticed he was exceptionally forward and gleeful, reveling in the joy of hacking out—his favorite activity, no doubt. After navigating a long, rocky path shaded by trees, we made a left turn into a field that intersected with a winding trail through the woods. “This shade is unreal!” I thought, as we maneuvered through the brush and branches. I was having so much fun, and I could tell Hanz was, too.

These past months have been incredibly challenging yet equally rewarding for me as an equestrian and horseman. I cannot imagine my life without my horse. Many people observe from the outside, formulating wild thoughts, and often expressing visible confusion about the time, money, and energy required to be part of the horse world. Every day, I am grateful for my horse and the enriching experiences we share together. It often feels like more than just a chore; it’s a passion that I hope to nurture forever. At least I can find that much, can’t I? Can’t anyone? The essence of true horsemanship lies in loving and serving the horse, and I hope that meaning remains with me always.

Thursday, July 17th 2025