I arrived at Bowlings Riding school, slightly nervous and 30min early. I met Mrs G, the owner of the stables who instantly put me at easy with her wonderfully friendly manner. I was introduced to my first instructor, and then given a tour of the horses and facilities there.
I had my new riding hat, my new chaps, riding gloves and boots, all from the Equestrian Warehouse in Withybush, where quite by accident we bumped into Kate, who helped me choose what I needed.
Mrs G was very interested in Pembrokeshire Tea and what we do as she had seen/heard us in the local press and radio, so we chatted for a while as they got Lyric tacked up for me.
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Lyric from Bowlings Riding School |
He gave me a quick assessment and decided to offer me his nose to rub as way of an introduction.
They then took him to the indoor school and sent me off to wait on the mounting block.
I was shown how to put my hand on the saddle and left foot in the stirrup, then swing on to the saddle.
It felt very odd for a few seconds, Lyric was great just standing still for me. I was passed the reins and told to hold them like 'TeaCups' with my thumbs outside, then shown how to make Lyric walk.
An odd movement, of slight swaying and bumping, but exciting, I think that first sensation of horse movement will be something I hope to remember for a long time, pure excitement. I was shown how to 'Whooa' (stop) and the basics of turning with the reins.
We spent the lesson getting me used to Lyric, how to move my legs to request a turn, how to balance and sit and then dis-mount. I didn't fall off!
I walked Lyric back to his stable and said goodbye.
Once back at Nant y Coy all the TeaLadies wanted to know how it went, I couldn't stop smiling.
Wonderful.
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