Working With A Madman
As Pollard steered the handsome horse around the arena, he finally understood what compelled him to buy the creature. Sawyer was reckless and mean, but he really would shine for the right person. The pair gained respect for each other as the ride went on; with Sawyer learning to appreciate his rider's stern and determined attitude, and Pollard beginning to take quite a liking to this strange horse and his ways. The ride was an interesting one, since every time the horse was asked to do something difficult, he showed his displeasure by rearing or kicking. Near the end, Pollard decided to attempt a flying change. He remembered how beautiful his changes were when the stallion was at liberty. Taking a deep breath, Pollard guided his horse along the diagonal, and approached X.
Leg back, seat forward, hands soft, and up! The horse flew. He launched himself into the air like a rocket, and struggled with his legs in suspension before crashing down to his feet, and continuing on the correct lead. Pollard was unseated, but unharmed. Sawyer seemed pleased with himself, raising his neck and bouncing up and down happily. The change was not even enough to score a five on a dressage test. Perhaps the horse would be a jumper, thought Pollard as he walked Sawyer out of the ring. That was a theory to test another day.
