By Dan Roark
Last Saturday morning, as will happen with any of the horses at any given lesson, Tommy was tacked up and ready for a lesson, when a rider – for whatever reason – was unable to make it. Since it would be a while before Tommy would have a rider, Emily took him into the arena. While she took a whip – which is very rarely used as it’s name implies – it was entirely unnecessary. Tommy took off around the arena. 
It was like watching a 2000 pound puppy at play. He charged around the arena – faster than a trot and a canter, but not really a full gallop. For a horse of his size, it was a playful romp. That we could feel beneath our feet. The volunteers assisting riders on the sensory trail could feel Tommy’s hoofs pounding the sand or hear them at the very least.
There are three dogs at New Hope: Mary Margaret, Dani, and Sadie. From what I understand, Mary Margaret is older and/or has issues. I know Sadie likes to bark a lot, but she’s a more gentle soul than she lets on. Dani appears to be the more adventurous of the three females.
On Saturday, Dani saw Tommy running around the arena and wanted to get in on the action. It turned into a game between the two of them, chasing each other up and down the arena fence.
At one point, Tommy recognized me on the fence taking pictures and came to say hi. This is what it looks like when a very large Belgian charges at you hoping you have treats to go with a hug.
Ride on and ride for hope.
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