Leo: The horse with anger management issues
This photo is of Leo, a.k.a., “The Leonator.” Leo spent 3 months with a trainer a few years ago. One day, after spending the day in the field working cattle, Leo refused to respond to a cue. So the trainer reportedly, “put the spurs to him.” They were on a hill. Leo, being the powerfully athletic horse that he is, put everything he had into bucking that trainer off. Not only did he toss the trainer into some bushes, he bucked himself right off balance and tumbled head-over-hoof all the way down the hill.
A few years later, his owner took him out into an arena filled with riders warming up their horses for team roping. Leo was cued into a canter, but would not slow down when asked to. His owner gave him an impatient jerk on the bit. Leo, being the powerfully athletic horse that he is, put everything he had into bucking off his papa. I hear it was a pretty spectacular display, complete with horse butt going nearly vertical on a few occasions. He not only launched his papa high over the heads of other riders, he continued his bucking spree for a full lap and a half around the arena (just in case anyone hadn’t noticed he was irritated).
Leo was intended to be a roping horse, and he will be. Why do I think he’ll be a great reining horse as well? You should seeeeee him! I’ve never ridden a horse with a softer mouth or more sensitive sides. He’s a speedy little guy and has delivered some impressive stops. Did I mention his agility in turns? Ok, so I don’t know a lot about what makes a great reining horse, but I’ve seen the videos! I think he can do it. 
Training: We began training together a few months ago, and have had all kinds of challenges. I am learning about reining through books, training dvd’s, and other riders. I’m hoping to create a community here where reiners can share their experiences and build a knowledge base for the discipline. I will be logging the challenges that I’m having with Leo, who will definitely provide plenty of material.
First obstacles? How to start him on turn arounds properly and how to keep from getting launched. So far so good. I don’t use spurs and the most he’d ever get out of me in terms of punishment for bad behavior is backing him, a series of small circles, or some extra work in the round pen. Does anyone have any advice on curing a horse that bucks? He seems to be getting a lot more gentle with just consistent riding, but there are times when I can tell that he wants to get rid of me. I usually change the subject when that happens.
