handlers at the sales

[BJ]

How did this topic get so off?

The topic started "off" with Zinn21's question, IMO. The subject started out being about why the handlers are always jerking on the horses, etc., but Zinn changed it to being about the "color" and/or descent of the Keenland handlers.

For it to be an issue at all is "off".

Keenland has nothing to defend or answer to and the person posing the question, IF truly interested in an answer, should address it directly to Keenland.

I am certain that Keenland hires and keeps in its employ, only the best individuals, who represent Keenland as they wish to be represented.

But none of us can speak for Keenland, and the person posing the question was clearly trying to make an issue out of the "color" and/or ethnic discent of the Keenland handlers. Why ELSE ask the question?

[Toccet02]

I was kinda wondering how the topic got so off track myself---
I started it, and I was just wondering if anyone could explain further some of the nuances that these handlers do because it's all very subtle.

[henthorn]

Hi, Toccet. They are masterful at their jobs, but I can't tell what they are doing. Maybe you could write Keeneland and ask for some ideas from the handlers.

[Toccet02]

I once took care of a dog that was vicious and totally unpredictable. Lacked the usual "fair warning" body language as well. I got pretty good at "handling" him...especially after the time I let up on the leash pressure just a bit after we were just past a Great Dane that had come towards us. My dog (Music by name, about half the GD's size)abruptly wheeled and jumped on the other dog's back in a full-fledged attack.
While passing, he barely looked at him, much less growled!
I really had to watch it after that. I tried to transmit stern warnings through the leash pressure and it seemed to work. Not yanking, just subtle twitches like "I'm watching you, buster".
He was eventually put down by his owners after he bit two people and then growled at their crawling infant. Always liked me though!
Anyway I'm kinda fascinated by these horse handlers. Seems similar.

[madelyn]

Imagine the job description. Must not be taller than 15.2hh, able to control horses of all ages, stallions, mares, etc., with unbelievably subtle movements and no voice, experience catching weanlings in midst of rearing and getting them earthbound preferred.

I think they do an AMAZING job.

[zinn21]

BJ, sorry my question upset you. I'll do a little research and post seperate from this string to avoid any further digression.

[Sylvie Hebert]

Madelyn you are talking about a track pony....are you?they are in my opinion the less apreciated,undervalued worsted cared for workers at the track,have you ever had a look at the outriders and ponies at Penn,Ladowns....standing in dirty stalls,badly shod (when they are),no care at all,very often horribly skinny...