I have had the pleasure of owning Simon since he was a stallion colt, before he was gelded. From the very beginning, I was drawn to Simon due to his impressive foundation on the flat, particularly for Western Pleasure. Although I had no intention of riding him in this manner, I recognized the potential he possessed. My background is rooted in Hunt Seat riding, and my primary goal was to compete with Simon annually at the state fair, where we typically showcase our show cattle. However, as often happens in life, our breeding program for show Labradors led to a busy schedule filled with show after show. Regrettably, this whirlwind of activity left me with little to no time to devote to Simon, resulting in a life that has been rather leisurely for him. While we do occasionally hop on him for some light playtime in our riding ring, my inability to consistently ride has made it difficult for Simon to reach his full potential.

He is a gentle giant, standing at an impressive 16 hands tall. Simon hails from a fabulous lineage of AQHA show horses, and it’s clear that he has a wealth of talent just waiting to be unlocked. However, due to the lack of regular exercise and activity, he has developed a bit of laziness; we often find ourselves struggling to encourage him to lope. With a little encouragement and a lot of legwork and a spur, he does eventually lope, but it requires more effort than it should. I have no doubt that with consistent riding Simon would effortlessly transition into a lope.

One of the aspects I appreciate most about Simon is his overall health and wellness. He has never required injections and comfortably goes barefoot during the winter months, with shoes applied in the spring to prepare him for the riding season. He is up to date on all vaccinations and Coggins tests, ensuring that he is ready for any potential riding adventures that may arise. It is important to note that Simon thrives in a loving and safe environment. He does not fare well when simply tossed into a field without structure or companionship. We have a sprawling pasture available for him, but Simon prefers the security and comfort of his stall for sleeping and summer shade, he also has fans.

Despite my limited time, Simon is such a well-behaved horse. He clips, ties, and bathes perfectly, and he is wonderful with the farrier, who trims his hooves while he is just tied up. The only thing Simon will need in the near future is a teeth floating, scheduled for the end of April. Regrettably, my lack of time is the only reason I find myself in the position of needing to sell him. He has not been trail ridden, and while I believe he would adapt well to that, I cannot say for certain, as I have little experience trail riding him myself.

Simon is our only horse, and it has been a joy to have him in our lives, but I hope to find him a new home where he can receive the attention and consistent riding he so richly deserve

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