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[RC] Starting a new horse - Patti Pankiewicz-Fuchs

Thought I'd throw this query out there since it doesn't seem as if there's been *too* much talk for newbies lately (not that there is anything wrong with that). I have a coming 6 year old, pasture raised Arab mare. Well, pasture rasied for the first 4.5 years of life, then I bought her and she sat for about year or so while I had a baby. She's now on week two at the trainers learning to be a trail horse. I messed with her while I was pregnant and in the past 6 months postpartum, but this trip to the trainer is the first time she's been in *real* saddle training. According to the trainer and from what I have seen she is doing great...still some issues about mounting and dismounting, but while he is in the saddle she is responsive, not spooky at all and very willing to please. He's ridden her in the arena and around their 30 acre pasture's trails (while the herd was out even!) and she's done awesome......so I'll quit my bragging and ask the question. Our goal is to ultimat ely be middle to better of the pack 50 milers... the ultimate, ultimate dream would of course to complete a 100.
 
So how do I approach this first year??
 
I was thinking that my a-year-from-now goal would be to do a slooooow 25. Is that too much or too little?? Just right? I know about LSD (I've read everything nearly...did 4 LDs with my older Walker cross mare a couple of year ago) but I know I should/may have to go at things at a different angle with Serendipity as she is "just broke"....I know it's all about the individual horse, but if any of you veterans have the time or inclination I'd love to get your feedback as to what you would suggest on how many times a week to ride, how long, at what speed, (for example when do I even start introducing trotting for more then a 1/10 of a mile at a time with her?) and where...how much ring work (not that I even own one, but I could figure something out) how much trail? I personally am inclined towards teaching her everyting she needs to know on the trail, but I am open to suggestions.
 
Feel free to e-mail me privately or on ridecamp if you think others would benefit from the suggestions.
 
Patti & Serendipity (I thought I was just a permanent pasture potato!)
 


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