The first time Marisa Isbell rode Jonny Be Bueno at Redwings Horse Sanctuary in Paso Robles, California, she could feel that he was a special horse. Even while walking, she could tell he was trying to communicate with her and understand her with every leg support she applied. He seemed eager to talk to Isbell the only way they could: body language. He is an extremely sensitive horse, so he always responds immediately, eager to find out what Isbell asks.
Jonny Be Bueno is a 10-year-old gray thoroughbred gelding. Employed by Rattlesnake Bridge in Silver Spook, he has an impressive sales history. Sold first at the Ocala Breeders 2016 August Junior Sales for $55,000, then again as a 2-year-old at the Ocala Breeders 2017 Spring Sales for the promotion for two-year-olds in training for $80,000. Jonny Be Bueno went to California in the fall of 2017, where he raced in position Del Mar And Los Alamitos Race Course before retirement. That’s when he ended up with California Retirement Management Accounts and Redwings Horse Sanctuary, starting a new chapter with Isbell.
“He is doing great,” Isbell wrote.
For the first 10 months or so of Isbell owning Jonny Be Bueno, they mainly did background work. It is the first step in building a trusting relationship with the horse, as it allows the horse and rider to get to know each other before moving forward with riding. They did a lot of ground work because Jonny was extremely reactive, and Isbell could tell he needed time to relax. He needs to get used to his new environment and surroundings, as well as gain confidence.
Isbell started riding Jonny Be Bueno shortly after 10 months of being adopted.
“He has completely developed into a confident, poised and well-developed horse,” Isbell wrote.
Jonny Be Bueno, who once had a tendency to be spooky and nervous, can now stay calm even in the face of high winds, playing dogs and passing cows. Jonny Be Bueno loves the mental stimulation and consideration that comes with dressage training. Isbell even started teaching him how to do small jumps, which he wasn’t impressed with at all.
Isbell looks forward to the journey of continued growth and collaboration with Jonny Be Bueno. With dedication and perseverance, she aims to further develop their dressage skills. Isbell also wants to focus on improving her jumping technique. As they progress, Isbell hopes to compete in three-day event competitions where they can showcase their combined talents and celebrate their remarkable relationship. Together, they embark on an exciting journey filled with shared achievements, unforgettable moments and the strong friendship that only horse and rider can share.
