26/08/2026
I always have high expectations of my homebreds but Minerva has surpassed them all. She is my gold star girl.
In part of her preparation for leaving home to pastures new she had a mini break away on the Nortt York Moors. She’s born bred and trained in Malham with only the odd day trip out locally and so in hope of easing the stress of moving to her owner’s home I thought a couple of nights away would stand her in good stead.
31/2 hr journey in the box to get there (why is Yorkshire so big??!!) which she took without a bead of sweat. She unloaded and settled straight in on my friend’s farm. After a few hours rest she marched out on the trails naturally wanting to lead the way and explore. She took the whole band of dogs and kids on their bikes and a horse she didn’t know in her stride and loved exploring the woodland trails. She had Faith for company but really didn’t seem to rely on her much. Such a brave 4 year old. Second morning she was waiting at the gate to be off out again. Longer ride with kids getting bolder on their bikes and dogs on extender leads and busier woods - all no problem.
Major thanks to Jackie, Eoin and Mac the dog for hosting us! Such a lovely time for all and was a great way to mix business with pleasure being able to bring fao and Nesta and kids along too - hopefully not too much chaos on your lovely quiet farm.
So pleased for Minerva’s owner, she took a gamble buying one of my foals four years ago in hope that she’d grow into just what she wanted. She’s patiently waited for her pony to grow and watched her through her training and I think she’s hit the jackpot with Minerva. We’ve hopefully given her the best prep for life after Malham as we aim to do with all ponies born here.
If anyone else wants to be part of this process, get in touch and reserve your own Malhamdale baby!
