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Equine Transformation - Aspenview Anton and Denise Fox

This article is from the September 2019 Horse Deals magazine.

Before, in August 2013.

Before, in August 2013.

Our Equine Transformation series shows what a little bit of hard work, persistence, determination and vision can achieve...

Competition Name: Aspenview Anton
Age: 12
Height: 15.3hh
Breeding: Arabian Warmblood
Sire: Pure Star (Crabbet Arabian)
Dam: Birribi Fiesta (Trakhener)

How and when did Anton come into your life?
In 2013 I decided it was time to indulge my love of horses again after a break of 10 years or so. I was looking for an allrounder that I could take to adult riding club, maybe do some dressage and endurance rides and just have fun on.

What potential did you see in Anton? 
I saw an ad for Anton in Horse Deals. He had been out and about a bit at jump club and to some pony club events and was being ridden by a young girl so I thought he had some exposure and would be fairly
easy going. 

What was his condition and temperament like on arrival? 
He was in fair condition but had no muscle tone and an upside-down neck. He has always been a sweet horse but he was very spooky.

Did he require any special care in the first month?
No, he didn’t really. Our transformation was more the development of our partnership and consistent training.

How did he progress over six months?
The first six months weren’t great as I kept thinking I’ll just wait until we are a little better before starting lessons. The improvements only really began when we committed to weekly lessons. 

What was his first outing with you and how did he cope?
We went to an unofficial Dressage competition at our local riding club in late 2014. I think it was a mixed day, he did one nice test and then one shocking one.

After - Novice 2016.<br>
Photo: Tom Testone Photography.

After - Novice 2016.
Photo: Tom Testone Photography.

You originally bought Anton as an allrounder, at what point did you realise he had talent for dressage?
There wasn’t really a moment, he doesn’t have big fancy Warmblood movement and I am not a naturally gifted rider. We have just gradually progressed and moved up the levels.

He has probably been more successful at the higher levels as he is consistent, willing and obedient.

How did he respond to each new step in his training towards advanced? 
He always tries quite hard, but we are both new to this level so sometimes the roadblocks were more to do with me than him.  

Advanced October 2018.<br>
Photo: Tom Testone Photography.

Advanced October 2018.
Photo: Tom Testone Photography.

How would you best describe his personality? 
Sensitive and sweet, I have never seen him lay his ears back ever. 

Does he have any special needs?
As a result of his anxious nature, we have had some issues with ulcers so he is on daily Ulcershield treatment.

Advanced June 2019.<br>
Photo: Rodneys Photography.

Advanced June 2019.
Photo: Rodneys Photography.

What are your greatest achievements to date?
Amateur-Owner Rider Advanced Champion at the Dressage NSW Winter Festival in June 2019 and obtaining 3 qualifying scores for Dressage NSW Bronze medals for Medium and Advanced in 2019.

What’s been the biggest challenge with Anton? 
His sensitive and anxious nature can still get the better of him at times, especially in unfamiliar environments. 

What is Anton up to today?
Working on collection and engagement and working towards competing at Prix St George.

What was the key to his transformation?
Starting lessons with Kate Taylor-Wheat and then having consistent weekly lessons.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to unlock their horse’s full potential? 
Find a coach who is an expert in the field you want to pursue.

What are your goals with Anton going forward? 
Hoping that in 2020 we will have our first start at Prix St George but we still have lots to work on before then.

Would you do it all again?
Absolutely.


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