The Ad Read

For the past few months part of my daily routine was to read the horses for sale ads on the numerous Internet websites. I had found several different horses that I liked, but there something always just not right about the horses I had inquired about. 

It was getting into April when the ad appeared: My Little Cup o' Tee, Thoroughbred, year foaled-1995, gender-gelding,height-16.2, temperament 2, asking price-$50.00 

It all sounded good but the asking price was not in line with the rest of the description and I was expecting to find the reason in the notes at the bottom of the page, which read: 18 year old bay thoroughbred, ex- racehorse, been turned out and only ridden occasionally, needs training.

Nothing alarming, but I wasn't expecting much when I replied to the ad. I was surprised when my inquiry was answered a few hours later: Yes, he is still available. When would you like to see him?   

I explained my situation. I was a former trainer and point-to-point rider who had been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis and was looking for a horse to do low level dressage. Why were you selling the horse?

Again I receive a prompt answer: Kids have gone off to college and he's just standing in the field. I think if you understand track horses you should be fine with him.

Several days later I rode him. He was unshakable at a very busy boarding stable. I knew I'd found a horse!!