AGE

As humans, we often remind ourselves that age is just a number, yet we don't extend this same mindset to horses. Recently, I had a wonderful horse for sale—kind, honest, and healthy, with no history of lameness or illness. Despite his qualities, he didn't sell. I had some inquiries, and one person even planned to visit, but their instructor discouraged them because the horse was "too old."

This was disappointing, especially since this person was looking for a horse to start competing with immediately, and this horse would have been perfect for that. Ironically, this was someone who had just lost a younger horse due to illness. It raises the question: what are we really looking for when we buy horses? If you're after an enjoyable, reliable partner to have fun with right away, why not consider an older, experienced horse that is actively competing and performing well? However, expecting an older horse to pass a full five-stage vetting without a few minor issues is unrealistic—especially when it comes to flexion tests, which can vary greatly between different vets.

One of the best purchases I ever made was a 16-year-old horse with poor feet, a result of years of improper shoeing. Despite his conformation issues, he had a huge heart and loved his job. My daughter, Charlie, who was 14 at the time, competed successfully with him. We bought him for £2,500, knowing he wouldn't pass a standard vetting, but his spirit was incredible. Yes, maintaining him required effort, but he took Charlie to area championships and beyond, and his reliability gave me peace of mind. Even when his physical limitations caught up with him, he continued to help my younger daughter at a lower level.

This horse stayed with us until he passed last year. He continued teaching others, giving riders valuable experience long after his competitive days at the top level were over. His story is a testament to how much older horses have to offer. They shouldn't be dismissed as past their prime or a waste of money; instead, with the right care, they can provide unforgettable experiences and lessons.