At 80 years of age and still learning, I would be the last person on earth to tell you that 58 is beyond the point of learning. If I look back on what I knew at 58 and what I feel I know at age 80, I would say that fully half of my learning curve has been executed in the last 22 years. This does not mean that the age of 58 comes with no challenges. One must prioritize differently when starting at the age of 58.
A teenager can dream of winning massive competitions and train to compete in events requiring skilled athleticism and sometimes a reckless disregard for their safety. These goals are not recommended by me for people who are beginning a riding career at 58. This, however, does not mean that the thrill of riding should be stolen from someone who wants to begin to ride in their late 50s.
Safety is a huge issue. It should be regarded as living with all capital letters and each one is RED. The second priority should be trainer selection, followed by horse selection and a plan regarding care and proper handling of the horse involved. I recommend an experienced instructor with impeccable credentials as to honesty and integrity. One cannot do enough research into the background into this individual.
There are ways to use my organization to provide counsel and advice in each of these areas. You have started by asking the right questions which is good but only the first step in creating an acceptable environment for a happy outcome. Horses often get the blame for creating dangerous incidences which in fact could be seen from great distances by an accomplished advisor/instructor.
Please stay in touch with us and make sure you subscribe to our Equus Online University. We have a DVD called The Perfect Match: Monty’s Guide to Buying a Horse
For more information about Monty Roberts and Equus Online University www.montyroberts.com
