Riding Horses and Retirees

I am so thankful to be able to retire my longtime friends on the new ranch!  These horses have meant so much to me as riding companions and friends. 

AK El Hassan x Ra Ra

1983 Bay Mare

"Ra"

Ra has introduced many of my friends to riding and is a trusted teacher for beginners.  She modifies her speed and responsiveness to the level of the rider - often not moving beyond a slow walk with nervous new riders.  For experienced riders she is an exciting horse as she loves to move out quickly and run fast!  You always feel like there is a lot of horse under you but never feel out of control.  

Ra passed away in her sleep in December 2009.  She will be very much missed.

Raffon++ x Colata

1984 Gray Mare

"Carolina"

Carolina is a feminine and regal mare with long flowing mane and tail - she reminds me of the horse that carries off the princess in a fairy tale.  Her feminine exterior is in sharp contrast to her powerful strides and stunning athletic ability.  She moves with a purpose and can go for days.  Carolina's spirit and endurance has not decreased with age.  She is my "23 going on 4 year old".   

Carolina is one of the most kind hearted horses I have ever met. 

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Raffon++ x Ralysabs Eclipse

1985 Chestnut Mare

"Melody"

Melody has an exotic, extended neck which she passes to her foals along with a long, full hip and huge eye.  Her foals have a wonderful "look at me" attitude yet are loving and sensible companions.  

You can see some of Melody's foals on her Foal Page.

Melody is a sweet mare who always tries.  As a trail horse she is sensible and trusting of her rider.  She takes new experiences well and usually does not have to repeat exposure to something more than once before she is used to it.  

Melody has a very western way of movement until you ask her to extend.  At an extended trot she moves out with animation and high action.  This is a natural talent - she has not been trained for it.  Who knows what we could have done with this talent if we had formally trained her.

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SQ Silhouette

Alhaamed Ferdina

These beautiful  mares sadly lost their loving owner of many years.  They will live at Wind Dancer Ranch the rest of their lives - hanging out with fellow retirees in the pasture.  They have settled in well and made the farm their own.  

Ferdina, at 29 years of age, is in fantastic shape and you can immediately see what a strong and solid mare she must have been in her prime.