IT'S TIME TO RIDE AN EVENT HORSE!!!

I'll admit, being an eventer, I was very excited to film this episode. See how I get on riding a young event horse over some technical fences!
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[@jamesbeet5309]

Hi, just thought I’d let you know that the amazing Bali is owned by us 🥰 the best spotty beast there ever was! From the naughty little new born foal to such a lovely sweet mare, Simon has really done a fantastic job with her and I wouldn’t want her to be with anyone other than Simon! I have tonnes of pictures of her as a new born if you’d ever like to see them! You did a brilliant job with her x

[@jamesbeet5309]

Also just to add, she’s a registered British sports horse, mother was an Appaloosa (bargrange brioni) and stallion was a warm blood (royaldik)

[@EdieDawnJay]

@@jamesbeet5309 I was very much wondering about that! I grew up with Appaloosa's around and I was looking at Bali with my head cocked going "goodness she looks 'fancy' for an appy", she must get that extra oomph in her build from her dad! Gorgeous mare, glad she's in good hands!

[@jamesbeet5309]

Her mother went advanced but was only about 16hh and Bali out of nowhere grew to 18hh

[@elphick.event.ponies]

Oh wow!! Hello there, and thank you so much for my ride on your gorgeous girl. I was very taken with her, such a kind natured horse. I’d love to see baby pictures, are you on Instagram by any chance? X

[@jamesbeet5309]

She’s a big sweetie isn’t the, yes I am it’s @beetjames I will be happy to send you some pictures of her (she wasn’t always this sweet)

[@Riahgera]

Absolutely love how slow he goes with the horses & builds their confidence rather than shoving them over things! We need more trainers like him 🙌🏻

[@elphick.event.ponies]

Very inspiring isn't it!

[@katiebryant4796]

He is such a kind instructor. He knows what it’s like to have anxiety when riding. It’s hard to find quality riding instructors.

[@SpiralMountain]

Completely agree

[@kropotkinnie]

if this channel suddenly stopped being about horses and just turned into you and simon standing in an empty room cracking jokes i don't even think i'd be sad

[@elphick.event.ponies]

😂😂😂

[@simplysahm6245]

Simon is just a barrel of laughs through and through. Bali is absolutely stunning, what a nice mover. Dont you DARE forget about getting him on Jam, that needs to happen! Could you imagine if she threw him? :P

[@elphick.event.ponies]

He is such a nice guy isn't he! I know, how fun would that be, think Jam would have to turn herself inside out to get him off 😂

[@ashleybrady9366]

Simon's horses are just so happy. I love the way he talks about them!

[@elphick.event.ponies]

They really are, such a nice chilled yard!

[@stridewayYT]

I love how Simon just walks in then Meg says he ruined the whole shot and Simon just laughed!

[@elphick.event.ponies]

Classic Simon 😂

[@sophiaedgley3304]

Simon seems so lovely he’s giving golden retriever vibes. Always cracking jokes and genuinely enjoying himself! He just seems so up beat and sarcastic person. Although I’ve only seen one video involving him I could watch this for hours. Amazing job Meg! It’s amazing seeing you adapt so quickly to new horses. Your always down playing your riding, but you always look amazing! I couldn’t do half of what you do❤

[@elphick.event.ponies]

Not a bad comparison, I've never not known him happy and positive!

[@timeless712]

“She’s such a nice person” Amazing that he thinks of them as people and not machines

[@IhearInsomniac]

I came looking for this comment because I thought the same thing. I love it so much. Simon is awesome

[@Jazzvibesicl]

I completely agree!! The wording says so much about a person, sooo many eventing people just stand there proudly and say ‘such a lovely honest horse’ or something but with Simon you can just tell he’s more relaxed and genuinely speaking when he talks about his horses

[@april5666]

He did this multiple times and I don't think he's even aware of it per se, they are as important as the people at his yard for him. What a lovely, humane, fantastic horseman he is. This has been really interesting for you too, Meg, as it has been very good for you after your fall, to ride different horses and have such excellent input from their amazing trainers. You seem to be letting go of the resistance more and more, I'm sure you'll be even better by the time the next season comes around. Happy holidays everyone :)

[@mariannamartinez4176]

so happy I'm not the only who noticed!! he's so gentle with them, would love to train with him!.

[@simonbrodie4416]

This was a great video to watch, particulalry because my wife and I own Bali (formally Bargrange Bali-Hi)! First off you are all right, Simon is great fun and we so much enjoy him riding our horse. He and his groom Amanda look after Bali so well and she clearly loves being with them. We're delighted that Meg enjoyed her time on her. She is indeed a lovely and kind horse. There has been some discussion on her breeding and I can throw some light on this. It is a little complicated. Many of the comments have confirmed that Appoloosa is both a colour and a breed. Is Bali an Appoloosa - well yes in part. Bali is the third in her line we have had the priviledge of owning, she and her mother are both home-breds. Her father was Royaldik with both Oldenburg and Thoroughbred lines. She is registered on The British Sports Horse Auxiliary Registry. However on the dam side her great-great-great-sire was Secretariat, arguably the outstanding American Thoriughbred who was not prolific at stud but rather took to an Appoolosa mare teaser. Of all the Appaloosas we have had Bali has perhaps the most unusual markings. Appaloosas come in all sorts of patterns but in our experience the particular "dots" change continually. Her mother was much lighter and faded to near grey with time. Her grandmother had only light snow flakes on her rear but otherwise a light bay when young. On the other hand Bali's aunt was nearly all black and would have fitted into the Household Cavalry, yet still an Appaloosa - that puzzled commentators! Bali is a large horse yet her half-brother - same sire - is only 15.3hh (two full hands shorter)! And his dam was bigger than Bali's. Genetics - go figure. Anyway thank you all for all the kind comments. If Simon ever let's go she's coming home. She's also much loved here. Simon

[@elphick.event.ponies]

This is amazing, thank you so much for commenting, and for also allowing me to ride her. That’s so interesting about her breeding, crazy how their colouring can change so much. I can’t wait to watch her and Simon out next season 😍

[@achieve1dream]

@@elphick.event.ponies Do you mind pinning this comment? I loved learning more about Bali.

[@simonbrodie4416]

Yes feel free. It's an interesting story. We're enjoying seeing her growing fan club.

[@bowkatiewow]

Do you have an Instagram? I would love to see more of Bali. She’s stunning!

[@Horses_and_cattle]

Who is the owner here?!

[@natalliebarnes2893]

Gosh! Simon is just awesome. I love his energy. Even though he's tough on himself but he's an amazing rider. Props to you Meg for getting out of your comfort zone! Beautiful horse. I absolutely enjoy and love watching your videos. WE NEED MORE SIMON!! I feel he really helps you Meg. Even though he is a little hard on you but he's always so positive!

[@elphick.event.ponies]

He's fab isn't he, will have to get my girls over there for some lessons!

[@AnotherGreenWitch]

Simons personality is just amazing! What a fun and kind guy! For someone who works with horses as a living and competes at a high level, you can stil see the little kid in him that fell in love with horses!

[@elphick.event.ponies]

THIS!! He loves them so much!

[@beccagriffin4697]

I love how grounded all of your guest riders are. They don't seem to take themselves (they do the sport and horses, of course) super seriously which is so refreshing! Well done all.

[@kimmclaughlin7328]

I love the way Meg tried to make us guess but then Simon just walked in and started laughing and Meg said you've ruined the whole shot

[@elphick.event.ponies]

A very short game of guess who thanks to Simon...

[@tessapurcell8250]

I think something so great about this series is Meg getting out and having experiences riding other horses and stuff but also hearing all these pros talk through what they’re doing or teaching. There’s so much knowledge and also genuine “pony time” with people who love the industry

[@Talkingg]

I’m a little late to the party but I loved a couple things about this- I love that Simon focuses on things like extending and collecting, varying things, changing reins, keeping it interesting for the horse. I loved that he repeated the exercise at varying speeds and varying heights. I love that he took his time and demonstrated patience with everyone around him. He’s just such a kind person, I feel like he’d be fun to have a chat with!

[@Mollie_Raby_Brown]

This has to be my favourite episode so far!! I loved the way how you were going to try make us guess and then Simon just walks in. You rode amazingly! ❤️

[@elphick.event.ponies]

Awh thank you! Yep, Simon just couldn't wait to get on camera clearly 😂

[@emmastrauch2813]

The Appaloosa is indeed a breed! The foundation horses of the breed were the horses that took chief Joseph of the Nez perce native Americans 1,600-1,700 miles in just over 3 months when trying to escape the US military in 1877. I happen to know several foundation Appaloosas and ride one, and I’ll be glad I met them and their owners for the rest of my life!

[@anniecampbell8554]

I love Simon’s H&C Masterclass on rider position and positioning. It would be great to see more from him on H&C as he is such a relatable trainer and explains the basics so well (including why things are important). It’s also fun to see that even 5* professional riders have to focus on all the things our instructors keep calling us out for doing wrong.

[@biggothepiggo]

I just love Simon. He's dead honest in the most friendly, motivational and encouraging way. And what a wealth of information, experience and lovely, effective riding at the highest level. He critiques himself in a thorough, yet very positive way, always thinking about what he could do better the next time and most importantly, he's so considerate and empathetic towards the horses.❤ Despite my clear lack of maturity, I'm actually close in age to Hobbit and I event at the lower levels after a 20 year hiatus from riding, though I've been back now for a number of years. But when I first came back, after about 6 months in, I had 2 back to back accidents about 2 weeks apart. One, in which a very powerful and talented dressage horse (that at that point, I probably, really had no business riding. I'm sure I was see-sawing him around on the forehand in the worst way!) exploded on me and I smashed my face on his poll, putting my tooth through my lip, requiring stiches on both the inside and outside of my mouth and a root canal on my tooth. Then, 2 weeks later, I got positively launched by a massive buck out in the cross country field. I didn't hit my head, but the reverberations from the fall gave me a significant concussion, which caused me to throw up and go blind for about 20 seconds, which felt more like 20 hours. Other than my messed up face and brain, I was totally fine. But I had been dreaming about riding again at least once a week, every week for literally 20 years and they weren't 20 boring years. They were 20 awesome, fun years. But I still missed riding so much. Yet here I was back at it, sucking badly and completely terrified from the inflammation of my brain and a gash in my face. I'm as vain as anyone; being disfigured was never a goal of mine. So what was I going to do? Quit something I had literally been dreaming about for decades? I kept at it and rode very nervously and tentatively and badly. Finally, I made the realization that I needed to suck it up and get on with it and I created a mantra for myself: "Riding tentatively doesn't keep you safe. Riding properly keeps you safe." That occurred to me as you said something self deprecating and Simon replied along the lines of, "Well think of what you have to do, keep your rhythm, track, straightness, pace etc." Just repeating to myself that tentativeness isn't going to help and only proper riding helps has been so effective for me and then I go down the checklist of what I should be doing with my hands, body, leg, eye, rhythm, track, pace, straightness etc. There's so much to think about that it doesn't let negativity push its way in. I just wanted to remind you of that, even though I know you already know it. One day soon you will go around a novice event on a horse that you have produced yourself and you will do a super job of it and when you do I will be here in Canada cheering you on (And telling everyone cheekily, that I knew you had in in you the whole time)!❤ You did a lovely job on the gorgeous, spotty mare.

[@jelphick4686]

Wow, what determination & dedication you've shown. It's so lovely to hear how you overcame your fears. Good luck & best wishes for many happy, successful season's 🙂 x

[@gracenorth6606]

Simon is the most positive person ever! The way he chats to his horses and his team showcases his sunny self! And he’s doing Leicestershire proud. Happy vlogmas! 🎄🎁

[@Meggasaurus135]

Anyone else thinking Meggie needs a full on horsie? hehehe! Also, absolutely rolling at the compilation of Simon saying "WHEEE" at the end 🤣

[@brendayawn6463]

This was my favorite of the series. Simon is an amazing horseman and teacher, and Bali is so lovely! I love his relationship with his horses--they truly are people to him.

[@taylorwollerson2561]

Simon always seems like such a lovely trainer and coach! Love the way he breaks everything down. He gives off such relaxed and encouraging vibes!

[@mphorsemanship4737]

Oh I just love him and the enthusiasm he brings. You can tell how gentle he is with the horses and it shows in their confidence❤ he was great with supporting you in your anxiety. I find with mine using those technical rides, help me know I’m prepared for whatever is thrown at me!

[@veryvigliotte1752]

Simon is an amazing instructor. It's nice to have someone to push you every now and then but it's really encouraging to see someone who is focused on the positive to help your riding progress!

[@Ocean_Equestrain]

He seems and lovely man and a lovely, kind rider and horses man, the way he just jumped off in that clip after the xc and really patted and hugged his horse!

[@elphick.event.ponies]

He truly is lovely!

[@chalc8882]

Oh I've missed Simon! It's great we see so much of Cam but Simon is part of the squad too and so entertaining and positive. What a great guy!

[@Horsemom]

A true horseman! He even uses the baby voice when talking to them, they're happy horses 🤗.

[@KMLequestrian]

Simon is such a babe 😍 love how positive and encouraging he is!

[@elphick.event.ponies]

Amen to that 👏🏼

[@Stellarevolutiondesigns]

As a past coach I appreciate you showing your journey through common fears many riders, me included, have in their riding education and advancement up the levels. I would love, love, love to see you be kinder to yourself in all your self talk! ❤️ Cut those negative comments after each fence. I'd have you only say what went positive after each fence rather than hyper focusing on the "negative". You know what didn't feel/go well so don't waste your energy hyper-focusing on it. Fix it. This isn't an easy exercise. Vocalize each good choice, chase the good feels and work to make that your new normal in any horse big or small. The many different horses have seemed to be great for you! Enjoy the ride and all the best.

[@lydiathomas1993]

I'm not usually a "watch someone have a lesson" type viewer but these have been amazing! Thoroughly enjoyed Simon, he's hilarious and educational all in a short legged package 😜 Brilliant job Meg. It's actually refreshing to see someone other than myself have a moment - makes nerves so normal! Xx

[@ms.matchedsocks4927]

I feel like this is exactly what you needed Meg. Sometimes it’s good to have your feelings validated by a professional who understands this can be a very scary sport sometimes, and it’s okay to take things slow.

[@fantellerhur]

meg, this series has been amazing! high quality long-form content. love both seeing the lessons and then you riding & learning. crossing my fingers now to see simon ride jam :)

[@elphick.event.ponies]

Awh thank you for the lovely comment!

[@christinedavies336]

Simon's a great instructor and he runs a happy yard of horses, people and an adorable puppy! Some great riding there Meg! I'd love to see Simon ride Jam and Whinnie.

[@mildmustang]

Bali is lovely. My trainer is a huge Appaloosa fan. She bred and competed Appaloosa's through her career (she's semi retired now). Appaloosa is a breed and a color. The Appaloosa is a breed from the United States that was used by the Nez Pierce tribe, they almost went extinct when a bounty was put on the horses. Modern Appaloosa have been crossed over and have a lot of quarter horse in them. The color shows up in other breeds as well like Mustangs, Knabstrupper, Noriker, minis...

[@LeanneWatersAuthor]

Again, I learned SO much from this! Vlogmas this year has given me loads of focus and so many goals for winter riding, thank you! Also, for someone as talented and perfectionistic as Simon, he’s incredibly humble and rides with amazing empathy for the horse and its needs - it was brilliant to watch/listen. Also loved the fact that he ventriloquises both horses for the whole session too! 😂😂Literally felt like they were actually talking back! WHAT A MARE! Bali is so stunning 😍😍 You rode brilliantly, it’s a relief to hear you guys talking through falls, fears, and all the feelings that go with riding ❤ 

[@robertcandage5345]

SImon is a true horseman AND he has mad coaching skills. Meg you are riding better and better each day. Love to see someone who puts in the work and gets the results. Impressive.

[@jennifermastin7169]

BALI IS SO BEAUTIFUL!!! She looks like she absolutely enjoys her work. So gorgeous she is!! Her owners sound just as lovely as she is and deserving of such a beautiful girl. Bali deserves such lovely owners.

[@janeminwell4395]

Simon is a hoot, and self-depreciating, empathetic, and all round nice guy! You did good Meg, another confidence-giving vlog.

[@nelly20120206]

Simon seems like such a nice person, I love how he emphasized that it's all about you and the horse having fun! I feel like many people tend to forget that, so it's nice to see a high level evemt rider say that :)

[@cowboycomrade]

these past videos have been probably the best long form proper jump schooling i’ve seen on the platform, i learned so much through your lessons thank you 🙏🏼 i hear the words Simon says from my coaches all the time, and seeing it applied to another person gives really great perspective

[@georgiawoods6958]

This series has been sooo good to watch! It’s nice to see you putting out genuine content that we alllll deal with, I massively relate to the struggling with bigger horses thing, being short I’ve always rode the littles and when I get on the big ones it feels like riding a barge ! You’ve been riding ace throughout, good luck for next season🎉

[@maddydortignacq5567]

I'm sure someone else has commented this, but to answer your question Appaloosa is a breed not a color. The coat pattern associated with Appaloosas is called the leopard gene (Lp) and is also found in distinct breeds such as the Nez Perce (originator of the Appaloosa breed and where my girl gets her spots), Knabstrupper, Noriker, Pony of the Americas, and more. It's the same as how the Paint is a breed often associated with pinto coloration, but pinto is a color pattern found in multiple breeds (aka Banksy & Lara). There are Appaloosas who don't have any copies of the Lp gene and thus are solid colored, but it is a very common mistake to call anything with the Lp gene an Appaloosa even here in the US. Hope that helps!

[@dxniella_]

I love Simon, he's so funny. He's so kind to the horses and accepts when his made a mistake. Bali is STUNNING, you rode her fab!! ❤ ❤

[@ClaireZopelis]

This was absolutely my favorite episode!! All of the riders have been so kind and the horses have all been wonderful, but you and Simon seemed to work so well together. Would definitely love to see more videos with him, maybe a lesson with Jam? (:

[@jenniferlehman326]

That's a great confidence builder for you Meg!! So proud of you for pressing on and following Simon's advice and doing over and over, until you felt more confident in yourself. So proud of you for that. Love from a Retired Paramedic, a S&R Dog and Handler Team Trainer and Horse Trainer in Ontario, Canada, Jenn. 💖 💖🇨🇦🇬🇧

[@elphick.event.ponies]

Awh thank you, felt so much better by the end!

[@jenniferlehman326]

@Elphick.Event.Ponies So glad. I hope you realize how much riding all these different horses is so important to riding. You learn so much from each horse that helps with your horse journey. It develops you into a better rider for your own girls, and prepares you for when Ettie is older. Because she is definitely going to be taller than your Connemarra? Ponies. Each horse we ride teaches us something. And if we keep our minds open to Learning Meg, nothing can stop you from achieving a first at Badminton with Ettie in the future. Love Jenn.💖💖

[@stellangios]

Whee! I love Simon, he's got such a super attitude about horses and riding. Focusing on making sure the horses feel confident and happy and the rider as well, but never slacking off on doing things correctly. Just awesome! And what a lovely mare you rode 💖 I love all the conversations but especially about riding lots of different kinds of horses. It's so easy to get stuck in a comfort zone and convince yourself you'll be no good outside of it, but if anything Meg I think this series has shown how good you can be on all sorts of horses. Can't wait for the next video!!

[@gracewebb6467]

I love Simon!!! He makes everything seem so chill even when you are tense

[@ErinChristine5]

Simon is such a great teacher! And Bali is so amazing! I love an Appaloosa, I grew up riding with friends who had them and evented. Love a breed native to my Pacific Northwest home 😊

[@elphick.event.ponies]

I have a new found love for them now!

[@syzygyfarm]

It looks like Nala is a big fan of the channel. :D She was so excited to see you! Simon is such a riot. Pleeeease put him on Jam! I would love to see a "what it's like to be an owner" vlog, if he competes Jam, to get some perspective on how upper level owners and syndicates view the sport. Love all these new perspectives and discipline deep-dives that you're bringing us. Keep it up!

[@elphick.event.ponies]

Nala was the cutest, will certainly try get him on Jam Bam!

[@harrinickless6432]

My favourite episode so far. I LOVE Simon’s attitude with the horses and teaching. Such a confidence giver.

[@mimiv3088]

The appaloosa "the babe with the power". That's the way the Native American Indians bred their beautiful horses. Powerful but gentle. She's really a gorgeous and fun horse.

[@ponyparty28]

I love listening to Simon! ❤ I could literally listen to him all day he just puts a smile on your face! This humour totally makes the horse riding industry - he is the epitome of why Eventers are always considered the “fun” discipline 🎉🌟

[@sharyll19011]

Simon is the most positive, good energy, confidence building, rider and trainer. And, his results are amazing. Never so keen on Appaloosas BUT I love Bali. Full stop. Echoing another's thoughts, riders and horses need more humans like him. Kudos to you for a fun and courageous series. Weeeee!😊

[@kristiwetsel9531]

Girl !!! Stop doubting yourself , you are amazing .. keep pushing And breathe and have faith in your self ❤️

[@lucygrimshaw8796]

Simon's so ace!! I could listen to him all day! And what a brilliant horseman as well!!

[@readwriteteach]

Riding lots of horses with excellent coaching will build your confidence like nothing in the world. Congratulations and thank you for taking us along.

[@LaurenxPawreen]

i'm absolutely living for Simons energy, you both work so well together. By far my favourite, would love to see you both do more together!!

[@daramcgrath4423]

Thank you for sharing all of these videos in this series. I have learned so much watching you step out of your comfort zone and try all these great experiences. I love Simon - his absolute joy in his horses and what he does day to day is inspiring. May we all find work that we love so much!

[@kateflanders7611]

Such a fun knowledge-packed and joyful time with Simon. Thanks Meg.

[@zoeludlow8904]

What a wonderful man everybody need a Simon in their horsey life, fabulous vlogmas Meg 10/10 .

[@sp474]

Another awesome video! You rode beautifully and please give yourself some grace Meg. You had a scary fall and your fears are justified. Glad you are finding riding all these different horses and working with different pros helpful in working through this. Its amazing how things just fall into place. Simon is a gem of a rider, horseman and he's so down to earth. You can see how happy his horses are and how he really appreciates them. He's also so fun. Keep up the great work Meg! ❤❤

[@marieparsons3507]

This is the first time in this series that I sort of understand what's happening! Simon's riding and coaching is so good!! It's like he's in your head and knows exactly where you need information. I also love that he spends so much time schooling over low jumps. It makes no sense to school over the highest jumps. It seems like the horse can pretty much jump high on their own once they are rock solid on How to jump. How refreshing! : )

[@ozbird03]

What a lovely man Simon is, I bet he is such fun being taught by him. Meg you did such a good job with Bali 😊

[@gameofcrones3141]

Appaloosas are a breed that was developed by the Nez Perce tribe, here in America. they have their own registry, the Appaloosa Horse Club. There is also another Registry for appaloosas under a certain height, They are called Ponies of America, or POAs

[@crisytrewerne8700]

Simon is a legend we should have more of him, To have him on my doorstep 'm hoping i can get some tuition from him soon when he's not to busy of course. Fab video as always 😍😍

[@Kanakanakanakanakana]

I love Simon, he’s so nice to his horses and so funny! Would love to see more of him!

[@uwggrad2010]

This was a wonderful watch. I am so glad Simon was so vulnerable to share his story with you at the end to encourage you that everyone feels that way at some point. Also, loved all of the clips at the end. WHEEE!

[@livr3315]

This series has been amazing but this is my favourite video by far! Would love to see more of Simon!

[@SpiralMountain]

It’s so refreshing to watch someone be so supportive and actually try to build up your self confidence Meg, you’re doing so well

[@heatherradford1994]

How lovely is Simon and just so funny too. Its nice to see him riding on a normal day and he just seems to love what he does too. Amazing horses. Meg you are doing so well and it must be a little hard after what you went through but seeing you pushing through is wonderful. Lovely vlog again xx

[@MelBiggsMusic]

Love it Meg - Simon is such a warm-hearted, funny and sensitive soul - love how your friendship has blossomed!

[@kelseymacdonald7427]

Omg the compilation of “wee!” At the end was just what I needed 😂😂😂

[@digglediaries5548]

This was so enjoyable to watch! I love the banter between Meg and Simon. Also, the Wee compilation at the end had me going ‘weeee’ all day 😂

[@FrahVentino]

This may have been my favourite video so far. Simon is brilliant and it was great to hear a very open conversation about losing your confidence and nerves. Fantastic video

[@justkayleigh]

Just to say The Appaloosa is an American horse breed best known for its colorful spotted coat pattern. There is a wide range of body types within the breed, stemming from the influence of multiple breeds of horses throughout its history. Ps ik I skipped the vid some i just caught it

[@elphick.event.ponies]

I've been looking for this, thank you!

[@justkayleigh]

@elphick.event.ponies You are soooo welcome meg x

[@loriehyten2294]

Meg, your videos are becoming a highlight of my season - especially since illness has kept me out of the saddle for a bit. Keep up the fabulous good work! BTW, I am learning a LOT from your videos so really appreciate the training and teaching bits.

[@zoehenwood9706]

Meg: "Oh Simon you're so tough on yourself!" Meg: *Is exactly the same* Amazing to see the traits that successful riders share! Appreciate the good, but aim for great!

[@elphick.event.ponies]

Hahah touché

[@malin1153]

Really enjoyed watching this! I loved how Simon seems to be very particular about the small details in riding his horses - it does so much for the contact and partnership with the horse

[@Emma17456]

Appaloosa is the American breed of spotted horses. There is also the danish spotted breed of Knabstrupper which is the most common in Europe, but she really could be either. She did look more baroque type to me, so maybe Knabstrupper is more likely. A bit of history, both breeds are descended from Spanish horses and both almost went extinct at some point in time!

[@SandyRavenAuthor]

Yes, Appaloosa horses are a breed, they have a registry and everything. They come in solid colors, and with spots from as little as a few to a full-on leopard Appaloosa pattern. We've had an App pony, a flea-bitten App/Arab cross, a Paint/Appy cross, and a QH/Appy cross. Appaloosas almost always have nice hard hooves and soles, and a loads of common sense. Whenever I needed a horse for a child, I always chose one with some Appaloosa blood because you know you're getting a sane horse. If there is anything negative at all to say, it's that frequently they have scant tails and manes. Some people who show will weave in tail extensions and keep the manes pulled short, or braided. They are definitely a wonderful breed that can do anything you need it to.

[@lilyb5924]

Aww Simon is just the coolest! Great video, what a fantastic opportunity for you to ride such a gorgeous horse with his wonderful calm, encouraging instruction. Loved this series and you have built up some relationships with some lovely people Meg

[@worried_weasel747]

You’re the most relatable equestrian KZbinr I’ve ever seen. I have autism and severe anxiety disorders and I find myself falling behind all my peers at the barn because I get so nervous. I often wimp out and I struggle to calm myself down and relax. I’ve gotten a little bit better and I’m more confident than I used to be but I wish all my anxiety would wash away. I see myself in you and seeing you overcome your riding anxiety helps and encourages me to do the same. You’re an amazing rider and you inspire me.

[@horselife010]

I love the relationship the two of you have!!! More Simon and Meg please!!

[@minoraavem922]

This looks so realaxing and wholesome. The only horse that could really jump at my stable was crazy. The rest were old rescue ponys. She got to us because she was to wild. Sold as 1part Arabic and 3parts haflinger, yeahh no. It was the otherway around. So she was a little wider with biger hoovs than a arabic but full of energy and stubborn as a mule. When she saw something she could easely jump (everything up to her shoulder) she would without hesitation. Our best rider got her to work with. Sometimes she had the rein so short it look like she was holding the mouthpiece.When the mare tried to run off and jump something the girl spun her in circles, head against the shoulder and still soo fast. Now that horse goes cross and barrle racing and wins a lot competitions. Still not enough control for classic jump. She is around eight years old I believe.

[@samisummit2139]

Appaloosa is a breed! They are an American breed of Spanish decent so they are very common here in North America and they are also known as some of the horses the native Americans used to ride! There are different patterns for appaloosas such as: Loud and Few spot Leopard spot (loud meaning LOTs of spots few meaning few ofc lol), snowflake, varnished roan, blanket with spots and even solid colour! Or a combination of them sometimes! The horse you are riding i think is a loud snowflake blanket! She’s got those lovely spots on her butt being the blanket and lots of speckles all over the rest of her which would he the snowflake pattern! She’s gorgeous! I learned to ride on an Appaloosa they are amazing horses!!

[@naybellab2011]

The gift an exceptionally trained horse that's been ridden well kindly softly can be such MASTER of knowledge that can teach a rider that moment. I feel like That's what we've just witnessed and I am now fondly remembering my moment too.

[@writerspen010]

I love seeing the horses' breath in the air when they canter. It was clearly a very cold day for you too, but it's a really cool visual (pun not intended). It makes the horses look even more powerful 😎

[@natalyafrances]

I love how you and Simon have a tough love kind of "relationship"!

[@JustAgirly0]

such a pleasure to watch these training sessions absolutely love the trainers attitude and the horses seem so happy

[@thelifeofmeg739]

Eeek early 😍 Meg, thankyou so much for these awesome Vlogmas videos, they've been one of the things making December so special this year ❤️ such a gorgeous horse, it's really interesting watching you ride different horses, really shows what a good rider you are! Gosh, those markings on her is stunning 😍😍

[@elphick.event.ponies]

Awh thank you for the lovely comment!

[@flicksharp6746]

Loved all of this. Love Simon and his attitude and humour, love the stuff you guys worked through and talked about, it was like a demo! Love the honesty and showing the tough times 😍

[@dorothyvalter-brown1251]

I absolutely love his training style! I have autism and incredibly sensitive to the way people talk to me or give correction. Trainers like him make the BEST lessons. The most progress with such a feeling of confidence after because they talk to you like an equal. Absolutely wonderful

[@ihay472]

I was a bit dubious going into this series but I've loved it! Really fun seeing some new horses and riders. I would so love to see you with a horse, maybe Winnie and Ari will be horses. I absolutely LOVED the way Simon described Bali. I've had horses like that, they're my favorite!!!

[@maryhunter177]

Super to see the exercises broken down and then when you rode that sweet mare you had some time to get the feel of her. I also really appreciate Simon’s comments to himself about the straightness and the shoulder and keeping his body up. All so subtle I wouldn’t have noticed some of the issues. Can’t wait to try some of these excercises.

[@catarinax0]

Simon has fab energy about him! Would absolutely love to see some more of him!!

[@jeniferrinehart1107]

So great to put yourself out of your comfort zone. And….how fortunate you are to have these incredible coaches!! ❤❤❤

[@rachellarson6295]

Absolutely love this series! Also I really appreciate you showing us that you're scared sometimes too because I feel like most riders never mention it, but riding can be a scary sport!

[@sarahlkay18]

The Appaloosa is an American horse breed best known for its colorful spotted coat pattern. There is a wide range of body types and heights within the breed, coming from the influence of multiple breeds of horses throughout its history. The Appaloosa’s most distinctive characteristic is its spotted coat. There are many different spotted patterns and colours for the Appaloosa, the most common variations include the marble, the snowflake and the leopard. Apart from spots on its coat, the Appaloosa also has mottled markings on its genitals, lips, and nose.