John and I ran together today! It was the first time actually running/riding together! John was skeptical and didn't think we could keep up. It ended up being really fun! We went 8 miles around the back roads around the barn. Most of it was hard packed small gravel and Boomer was fine on that. We trotted the whole way and cantered up a few hills. I knew he could make it 8 miles, he didn't even break a sweat. I was more concerned about his hooves, but they seemed fine. He was definitely faster when we moved over to grass, but he didn't act lame or sensitive on the gravel at all. We opted to turn around when we got to a 'real' gravel road that wasn't tarred and packed, I think that would have lamed him for sure.
It was so cool though to run along side John though! Trotting was at about 8 minute mile pace and cantering uphill was about 5:45 pace. I think that if we get fitted for some hoof boots on the fronts he should be able to keep up 6:30-7 minute pace for at least the same distance. I am not worried about speed as much as soundness though!
John and I are thinking about doing one ride/run together per week. I think it would be cool to do a long run together. We can easily string together 10 miles with only a little back tracking, so putting together a 20 mile long run shouldn't be bad at all!
5 comments:
Didn't think Boomer could keep up? Silly boys... :)
Oh you have so much fun! What a nice horse you have!! Good lord, how far does that crazy man run? I only run when someone is chasing me....
He tries to average 50 miles per week! So far, this is the only way we will be able to exercise together, unless you count me sitting on the weightlifting equipment, watching TV, while John runs on the treadmill.
The comment you left on MiKael's blog... makes it sound like your coming to WA? Are you?
Don't you just love MiKael's blog! I called and talked to her once, man she is so chalked full of knowledge! I just love reading her blog! If I could have thought of more questions to have asked her, we would of talked all day! I was amazed that I called just to asked if she thought her mare Dare was getting ready to foal, then we managed to talk for an hour lol.
Kim- She really is a great story teller too! I do enjoy her blog. As far as I know, AHA nationals is in Tulsa, OK this year. I will probably go for the last weekend, but there is also an endurance ride near the show that last weekend, so I may try to arrange a long weekend involving both activities!
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