Background
I met Riff Raff when I was about ten years old. It feels surreal to say that was twelve years ago. I was just a child, and he was more than just a horse. From the very beginning there was something unspoken between us. A quiet understanding. A softness that felt safe.
With Sarah’s guidance, I began riding Riff Raff and learning the foundations properly. She gave me the confidence and support I needed in those early stages. After a few lessons, I slowly started taking more into my own hands, riding him more independently and allowing that bond between us to grow naturally. It was never just about technique. It was about connection. The more time we spent together, the deeper our trust became.
Groundwork
Some of my most precious memories were not even in the saddle. There were afternoons when he would chase me across the field, playful and full of life, his spirit matching mine. I would run and laugh, knowing he was choosing to be with me. And then there were the quiet moments when I would lie beside him while he grazed. The world would feel completely still. Just the sound of him chewing, the warmth of the sun, and the steady comfort of his presence. Pure bliss.
On the hard days, when life felt heavy and my heart carried more than it should have at that age, I would go to him. Riding Riff Raff became my therapy. My calm. Sometimes I did not even need to ride. Just being near him was enough. I cannot fully explain how we slowly healed each other over time, but I know that we did.
Development
We had many falls, many beautiful rides, and plenty of crazy moments when we were both in the mood for it. Every experience shaped us. Through challenges we learned resilience. Through trust we found confidence.
I miss him with my whole heart. A bond like that can never be replaced.
Now that Riff Raff will be one of the horses others get to work with, my deepest hope is that you experience even a fraction of the love, trust, and healing that I did with him. If you open your heart to him, he will meet you there. He truly is a special horse. Gentle, wise, playful, and deeply intuitive.
