I wanted to Strangle the Trail Boss

My first horse was stubborn, untrained, had an alpha personality, and was way out of my league as a newbie. It was all a big disaster.

Learning to ride later in life on a green horse was about the worst mistake I ever made, but my first clinic showed me that things could get much worse.

The beginning of the clinic was embarrassing and frustrating because my horse, Cody, had my number. He knew how to throw his head up, so bridling was impossible. He didn't want to cooperate, and he wasn't interested in anything I had to offer.

Eating grass was about all he wanted to do, and this clinic was severely cramping his style.

Over the three days, I did make some progress, and the time under saddle was beneficial for us to morph into a quasi-working relationship.

The final day - Trail riding

At the end of the clinic, the last afternoon was supposed to be a fun trail ride. I was excited and nervous at the same time because, like the first day you wear big girl pants, accidents can happen!

Riding out is like leaving the safety zone. Unexpected things can happen.

We started out riding through a large open pasture. The day was beautiful, and the air was crisp with the first showing of Fall.

It wasn't until we were halfway through the field that the trail leader decided to tell us that we were in an open pasture where a large group of horses were grazing. To make it worse, we would have to get to the end of the pasture, go through a small gate, and then round a very tight, steep corner to continue the ride.

As if on cue, the horses came charging at us. This was not some pretty movie where the cowgirls and boys are herding a big, beautiful herd into a corral; this was an assault, and it was as dangerous as it gets.

To say I was pissed off is an understatement. This wasn't safe for anyone, especially not if you are on an Alpha gelding like mine.

Cody started running and nipping at different horses that were getting too close. I was ready to pass out from fear. This was not in my wheelhouse.

Somehow, I made it to the gate, but I was the last to go through, and I still had to get around the corner. Loose horses were on my tail, and I wasn't sure I would make it through the gate without a major bucking fight with the other horses.

What do the other clueless riders do? They take their time getting through the gate and around the dicey corner, stopping, chatting, and clogging up everyone, still trying to navigate the horrible situation.

I barely got through the gate; one wild horse was still nipping at my tail as I tried to round the tight, dangerous corner. No one waited to see if I made it.

By the grace of God, I got through without a major wreck, but I had had it! I was foaming at the mouth over the stupidity of the trail boss for putting newbie riders into such a dangerous situation, and I was pissed at the riders for not using common sense or paying attention to try to keep everyone safe.

I said never again. I was not interested in trail riding after that trauma.

What should you do - The rules of trail courtesy

1. Always wait at the gate for the last person to come through, and don't leave until they are safely through and the gate is shut.

2. Leave no trace: keep all of your garbage with you. Respect the beauty of your surroundings.

3. Yield the right of way: Horses generally have the right of way on multi-use trails. However, be courteous and give way to hikers, bikers, or other horses if possible.

4. Announce yourself: When approaching other trail users from behind, especially hikers or runners, yell a friendly: "Hello, I'm on your right or left."

5. Maintain control of your horse: Make sure you have a good handle on your horse at all times. Keep a safe distance from other riders or trail users and avoid erratic behavior.

6. Mind your speed: Adjust your speed for trail conditions and avoid fast speeds in narrow sections or around blind corners.

7. Clean up after your horse if you can.

8. Single file: ride single file on narrow trails, especially when encountering other users.

9. Large groups: If riding in a large group, be mindful of other riders and maintain a good space between you and other riders. DO NOT ride up to someone's tail, like my horse Cody; that is a recipe for trouble.

10. Avoid using headphones so you stay aware of your surroundings.

11. Respect trail rules and trail closures.

12. For God's sake, don't take newbies or anyone into an open field with loose horses grazing!

Eventually, I started riding out again, but it took some time to get over the anxiety.

Stay tuned for more stories!

The Cowgirl Chronicles

Happy Riding! Kelly