I have always been a firm believer in setting the bar high and using all resources to obtaining the set goals. Even though I was finishing competitions well, I wasn’t happy with my performance. I felt like I was plowing through obstacle competitions and Kiley had learned some bad habits that needed to be corrected. We turned to Cindy Branham of Rockin RC Horsemanship to learn to ride properly. I have learned that riding should be easier. We are working hard at not working so hard. Cindy’s guidance is teaching Kiley, and me, the fine points of riding by using our seat, legs, posture, and hands properly. If I had only learned this as a child it would be so much easier today.
I felt like we were becoming one dimensional riders and our horses were becoming one dimensional horses. We needed to expand our disciplines. I was really excited when Brandy Von Holten, of Von Holten Ranch, approached me to be a board member for her new national organization Country Tough Trail Competition (CT2V). This national organization is composed of 3 disciplines. 1: Ranch Horsemanship 2: Obstacles 3: Natural Trail Obstacles. Scoring is given in each discipline to determine the overall winner. In order to be competitive in CT2V Ranch Horsemanship, Cindy Branham is teaching Kiley, and me, skills she uses in training herself for Working Equitation competitions. Wow what a difference I see in Kiley and myself.
The last 5 years have brought tears, sweat, blood, concussions, broken bones and surgeries caused from horse riding and competing. Along with this comes the love of Kiley and Corbin forming bonds with their horses, other riders, and Grandparent’s. It is something that can only be obtained by being involved in their life. Yes, it’s hard to get up before the sun rises and drive to a competition before the crack of dawn. All the efforts put into Kiley and Corbin’s relationships will be remembered and appreciated long after I am gone.
I urge Grandparent’s to take their kids riding, rent a horse for a day, lease a horse, or buy a horse.
Get involved in your Grandchild’s life. It doesn’t have to be on a competitive nature. Some of our best times are on the trail bonding and building relationships by being together in nature while supporting each other. Once you take the first trail ride, with your younger generation, you will be hooked.
Learn more about Country Tough Trail Versatility (CT2V)
www.vonholtenranch.com
Bill Hachmeister
Bill, Kiley and Kathi
Bill and Corbin