Pacha - may 9, 2011

Today, we tried spurs for the first time. Alone in the large arena with F. and Milha, I applied Faverot's excellent progressive approach with small polo spurs, set low on the heel at sole level. I was not quite sure what to expect considering Pacha's high sensitiveness and discomfort with everything new, especially when it happens on his back...
For a couple of in-hand sessions, I had accustomed him to the pressure of my finger behind the girth. It has worked fine, after a few disorders at the beginning. Today, I was pleasantly surprised that he did not show any strong reaction, perhaps only a little restlessness with flapping his lower lips in the beginning. We walked long neck for almost 15 minutes, with frequent descente d'encolure.After that, 20' trot with change of directions voltes and serpentines. Canter was particularly good, with calmness and slow cadence on circles as well as on the track. Spurs did help in precision, especially in lateral work. They did not create disorder in canter, rather conversely helped in keeping a steady cadence.
Altogether, a new step has been passed on the road towards finesse in dressage.