"The Friesian"
The darker horse is "The Friesian". His name was "Barbarian". He was the most difficult horse that I've ever ridden. I rode this work horse for a year. His owner was a retired Sheriff. She owned a ranch with a 20-stall stable. "Barbarian" had been out to pasture for too long and was becoming wild. That's where I came in. He bucked, reared up, pulled, ran off, and would stop to eat whatever he could. He hated the saddle because it didn't quite fit. His shoulders were too broad. I had put extra padding underneath the saddle. "Bacchari" was the lighter horse. He was gaited and easy to ride. If you don't have a strong body or experience riding, I don't recommend a Friesian.
Riding a Friesian, especially one like Barbarian, requires patience, strength, and understanding of equine behavior. These majestic horses are known for their broad shoulders and powerful build, which can make finding the right saddle fit tricky. I found that using extra padding was essential to accommodate Barbarian’s unique physique and prevent discomfort during rides. Friesians also tend to have a strong, spirited temperament, particularly if they have spent long periods out to pasture without training. This can result in wild behaviors such as bucking, rearing, and sudden stops to graze, as I experienced firsthand. Consistent and gentle handling, combined with gradual conditioning, helped build trust and improved his responsiveness over time. If you’re considering riding a Friesian or any similarly powerful breed, be prepared for the physical demands on your body. A strong core and good riding skills help manage their energy and ensure safer rides. For less experienced riders, it’s advisable to start with more gaited and calm horses, like Bacchari in my experience, before progressing to a Friesian. Overall, the Friesian is a truly remarkable horse with a noble presence and great potential for riders willing to invest the time and care needed. Their strength and beauty can be deeply rewarding to work with, making every ride a memorable experience.