Kirkcarrion Highland Ponies (and a Welsh Cob)

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Lulu, a Shetland Pony that does Long Distance Rides

I have just been told about a Shetland mare called Lulu that does 15 mile Pleasure Rides with adult riders. She even got her picture in 'Riding' magazine last year.

Lulu also does excellent lateral work both ridden and in long reins, and goes out regularly ride and lead with her owner's arab over 25+ miles. She is very sharp, however and she is not a childs ride - its impossible to make her do anything.

Here is her story, told by Esther, who owns her:

She really is a star pony - I bought her for Ł80 three years ago and although she has a few problems (arthritis, laminitis, melanoma) she does OK and keeping her fit keeps her sound.

I took her to Spirit of Sherwood with Harry (my arab) this year and although I didn't compete her there we rode out with a friend (on her arab). Lulu was charging along in front and my friends horse was not very impressed ('you expect me to ride with *that*????').

But I got so naffed off with people laughing at her ('Hahaha. I take it you're not doing the CTR...') that I have decided that next year (assuming she comes through the winter OK this year) I will try a 25 mile CTR with her.

She has always (touch wood) passed the vet for the pleasure rides, and the vets have been really positive about her.

I have heard a couple of 'wicked and cruel' comments that I wasn't meant to hear, but I put the person in question straight. I would not put this little mare at risk - she is too special to me.

The only thing that worries me is that *if* she ever does go lame at a ride - which happens even to the biggest horse - I know that everyone will automatically think that it is because I am asking too much of her. From that respect she will never be seen on a par with bigger horses.

And this is Lulu.

I have a picture of her in competition, but am awaiting copyright clearance for the photo. Will add it asap so you can see for yourself.

E-mail: a.douglas@dundee.ac.uk
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