Tess is a 14.3 hand German Sport Pony and Thoroughbred cross mare successfully shown through Second Level and ready for the 2023 season with an AA or Junior/Youth rider.

Tess is the perfect horse to:
 Build confidence schooling or showing as she’s safe and sane in all types of environments
 Teach riders nuanced half-halts, balance, bend, and an independent seat
 Share between riders with diverse skill levels
 Bond strongly with her owner and anyone else who gives her affection (and treats)

Tess’s strongest attribute is that she is calm in any environment allowing the rider to concentrate on skill building and confidence. Tess has three correct gaits, with steady tempo and rhythm. She’s forward without being too quick, listens to your seat, is adjustable at all gaits, and has even and light contact. Tess is responsive when asked for more collection, self-carriage, impulsion, and is naturally balanced. With her compact frame, it’s easy to move the shoulders and haunches, feel the half-halts come through, and establish reach over the topline without falling on the forehand.

Tess is comfortable with riders of diverse skill levels. Tess has experience schooling Second level while also helping a re-rider after a 15-year break. With her steady tempo, Tess is excellent for longe line riders, and protects her rider by matching her responses to their skill level.
Tess has scores in the mid-60s at Second Level, low 70s at First and Training. Judges love her and make comments like “Good job with soft contact,” and “Elegant pair,” and “Lovely partnership – lots to appreciate”. Judges consistently awarded her 7’s and above for her collected trot to walk to canter transitions, canter serpentine loops with simple changes, and Tess’s favorite movement, the halt at X at the end!

Tess is extremely personable and affectionate and enjoys grooming and bathing and helps you find all her favorite scratching spots. She’s extremely easy keeper, living outside 24/7 (but also stalls happily), and does best on grass hay with minimal feed. She’s barefoot, has excellent teeth, is UTD on all vaccines, and has been getting annual hock injections for the last two years to keep her comfortable for Second Level.

Owner is ready for a new adventure but finding Tess the right home is a priority - one where she can be loved and help someone learn and grow. If Minnesota is geographically challenging, the owner is offering assistance with transportation. Please feel free to schedule a visit – it’s cold in Minnesota, but our arena is heated! The barn is conveniently located 20 minutes from the MSP airport with hotels, dining, and shopping (Mall of America!) nearby.

For more information, contact owner at 651-368-6090 or [email protected].