Watching Brazil in the pasture or in work, she carries off this persona that nothing could shake her off the game. She has the "eye of the tiger" attitude. Never says no, and always wanting to please. Brazil is her own identity. In company or by herself, she is comfortable in her own world. She could have horses come and leave the arena while in work, and still stay focused on the task at hand. Brazil loves to jump, for she is always looking to the other side but in a very calculated way. Several strides out Brazil backs herself off, placing herself to collect, then jump the desired obstacle. Even the first time through the one stride, she figured out how to place herself to complete the whole exercise. Next we will do several consecutive one strides to improve her form and confidence. This will only improve her canter as well. Enjoy!!!

I can't express enough how impressed I am with this lovely mare. Her barn manners are impeccable. She never pins an ear back at another horse, not even during feeding time. Pastured with another mare, she doesn't care whether she is there or not. The same personality extends into the arena. Very work-oriented, she is very independent. However, when my phone rang, I thought I was going to jump out of the start box!!! Though she rubs noses with my other grey off the track thoroughbred, Ansel, she has an eye out for the stunning black Friesian, Magnum. I think it's the long flowing mane and feathers or the fact I refer to him as Slash from Gun's and Roses. She comes up from eating to meet you at the gate and is always ready for work. A real treat to have around the barn.

Today she is already starting to hold her balance better in the canter. We have cantered a couple rails and even done a proper flying lead change!!! Brazilian is using her body in a manner that is very beneficial for her in the long run, however, like any person working out, it puts stress on the muscles and skeletal system. To keep her mind and body fresh, I work on the collection one day, then hack the next, never over exerting the horse for my personal agenda.

Along the lines of what Steuart said in his first commentary, you'll find our progression quite fast. This is not because I'm pushing the horse harder, but I know exactly what I'm looking for. My workouts are very concentrated in perfecting the little things, that make the more advance moves easier and more logical. There is always a reason for every action I take, and it is to complement the biomechanics that make the horse balanced. My advice is to study the horse out in the field, under saddle, jumping, etc. Study what makes them tick, how they are on their feet, how they use their top line, what are they thinking. Don't be a follower and use the same terms as everyone else like, coming from behind, or rocking back if you are not seeing it. Anyone can train a horse, it's just a matter of whether you are training the horse to do something you want. So educated yourself what you want and be clear to your horse. One thing I'm committing to myself, is to always keep my eyes open and learn from others. The equine world is a fascinating one, regardless of discipline, there is something to learn.

 Eric Dierks