Jackie Smith and Rockin’ Rodney (OH)
Team #983: Jackie Smith and Rockin’ Rodney
From: Hanoverton, Ohio
Ages: 72 & 30
Combined Age: 102
Test: Introductory Level Test B
I put it out that I would love to do a Century Club ride and was looking for a horse that was at least 28 years old, as my horse was 20 years shy of meeting those requirements. Beverly Tarbell and Molly Patrick offered Rockin' Rodney. Rodney has been with Bev since coming off the track as a three-year-old, and she did a Century Club ride with Rodney in 2023. I worked with Molly and Rodney during their eventing years, so it wasn’t like borrowing just any horse. It was the next best thing since I couldn’t do it with my own horse.
We decided to do the ride at the Winona Horse Trials since Molly was already bringing a horse to ride in the competition. Of course, I would be there as the event is run on our Stone Gate Farm, and I’m the organizer of the event. Molly put a few refresher rides on Rodney in preparation for his ‘big’ day. He arrived all braided and ready to go. Bev gave me a few pointers as to how he likes to be ridden, and with a brief warm-up, we were ready to go. Rodney recognized where he was, and you could feel him puff up as he went down the center line. He was such a professional and did a pleasant, steady test.
It was an honor and a privilege to ride such a wonderful old soul. I really think he enjoyed going down centerline again and all the fussing that came along with it. Many thanks to The Dressage Foundation for the opportunity to inspire all those who came to watch our test and those reading this article.
I’ve been a lifelong rider, and nearly three years ago, I went on a quest to lose weight and get in shape (better late than never) so I could ride better for my horses and so I could safely continue what I love to do. I have been blessed with good health, good horses, good friends, and family!
For those of you who are unable to ride anymore, it is my hope that you have found a way to continue to enjoy these wonderful animals. For the rest of you, as the old saying goes, “You don’t stop riding because you get old, you get old because you stop riding!” Get out there and ride!
