** The last video I posted had an incorrect aspect ratio! Apparently when you take a 16:9 aspect ratio video and post it the internet, it makes you horse and your horse's stride look short and dumpy! Please rewatch Cat's videos now that I've corrected the problem! You can find the first video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H4Z4mOPKfTY. Other videos can be accessed through clicking on my username. Also, please check out more pics at http://s133.photobucket.com/albums/q79/hauntedvixen/Elite%20Guard/**
Elite Guard (or "Cat" to his friends) is the son of Sir Cat and grandson of Storm Cat. His 5 gen pedigree includes two triple crown champs - Secretariat and Count Fleet. He is a beautiful animal, has that A circuit hunter look. He came off the track two years ago, and I've had him for the last year and a half. However, training a horse and working on my PhD did not go together as well as I had hoped, so this guy has had a LOT of down time. He is going great on the flat, and has really developed a very nice, long and low trot. He's also starting to bend nicely around my leg, and to drop down into my hands. However, he is still green, and needs some serious miles put on him.
I have not done much jumping with him at all, but he happily pops over obstacles while on the trail. He has a nice tuck and has jumped 2'6" without having to put any effort in. I think he could make someone a really nice event horse, or a hunter - he has the bravery for the former and the movements and look for the latter.
I need to get rid of this guy quick - I'm going into the field for my dissertation research at the end of May - so make an offer!