NATIVE the grand lady of the Saddle Light Center program.

Native was with us since before 1993, when she was loaned to us by the grandfather of one of our riders. Native was a big horse with a wide back, so she was a good choice for heavier riders, and riders who need a broad base to sit on to help with their balance. Native’s gaits were very smooth and she had a very calm, affectionate disposition. She was extremely careful with her riders. When she felt their weight shift off-center, she stopped until they could regain their position. She closely monitored her riders when they dismounted, and nickered to them like she would to a foal. As soon as she felt their weight “disappear,” she turned her head to check them over and make sure they are OK. She taught all the other horses how to be the best they could be at their job here and how to enjoy peppermints her favorite treat.