PONY Bloggers: Meet Maya!

It’s time to meet our our next PONY Blogger – Maya! She’s 13 years old. pony-mad, and has riding lessons every week at her local stables. 

Hi PONY readers! My name is Maya, I’m 13 years old and I’m pony-mad!

I had my first riding lesson in early 2020, but when COVID hit the riding school had to close because of lockdown. I’d only managed a few lessons before everything stopped, which was really disappointing, and had to wait a long time until riding stables were able to open up again for lessons. Since then I’ve had lessons every week at my local stables.

The ponies at my stables are so awesome. On my first lesson there I rode a pony named Echo – a super cute 12.2hh, grey Welsh Section B. He’s super gentle but has a cheeky side that made every ride fun. I’ve outgrown him now, but I still love to say ‘hi’ when I see him at the stables! Many lessons later, I had my first ever canter. The feeling was incredible, and I’ll never forget it! At first, it was a bit bumpy, and I felt like I might fall off, but once I got used to the pony’s motion it became so much easier. Fast-forward a few years and now I can ride on my own, cantering and even jumping!

My favourite ponies are Lotto and Paddy. Lotto is an 11-year-old, 14.2hh piebald cob gelding and Paddy is a 13hh, 17-year-old grey cob. They have really different personalities, but are both really lovable. Lotto has the softest eyes, and Paddy can be really cheeky – he always keeps me on my toes!

I like to set goals of what I want to achieve with my riding. Do you? At the top of my list is improving my jumping. I’ve always wanted to jump 70cm, and I really want to learn the right form and technique to do it safely. I also want to get better at sitting trot and riding without stirrups because I know that will help me become a stronger rider. I have long-term riding goals, too: I’d love to train younger riders and share what I’ve learned, and I dream of going to shows and maybe even qualifying for Horse of the Year Show. I love watching working hunter classes and would be thrilled to compete in them one day.

My favourite lesson was just a few weeks ago. I rode Lotto and he was amazing! After warming up, my trainer set up a cross-pole, and we went over it a few times before asking for canter. It was the best feeling cantering Lotto up and down the arena. After the lesson, I untacked him and gave him a treat for being the best pony ever!

Anyway – I’ll be back soon with more stories of my riding adventures! See you next time!