Diane Berry and Carlton (MI)
Team #927: Diane Berry and Carlton
From: Dryden, Michigan
Ages: 79 & 24
Combined Ages: 103
Test: Training Level Test 1
I met Carlton about five years ago, when I started riding with Carol. The first time I rode him, he scared me because of his size. Looking down was not a good idea, so I just concentrated on going forward. Instead, I started with Billy, until he retired. Then I tried Lyric, but that didn’t work out either. When I tried Carlton again, it seemed I had lost my fear. Carlton has big gaits to complement his size. He stands at 16.2 hands and is almost as wide.
Carlton is the kindest horse I've ever ridden. The most endearing thing about him is that if you don't do it exactly how he knows it should be done, it falls apart quickly. That took some time to master. Carlton is retired now, but he went there with the title of Century Club horse.
Adding up our ages, Carol and I thought it would be fun to do a Century Club ride before Carlton retired. I started riding him twice a week for the last six months. My biggest issue was the left lead canter. After we managed to get that under control, it was uphill all the way. Everything fell into place nicely. I'm going to miss riding him, but we have another horse I can ride.
I would like to thank a few people for their support in this endeavor. Carol Ley, the wizard of a riding instructor. If she can't get it out of you, no one can. My judge, Julie Kenzie. My scribe and partner in horses for many decades, Chris Snow. On to another project for Carol. Sinatra will be of age in 2026, so we’re going to try again!
