Saddlestone Connemara Pony Listening School | Fiona and Foxtrot: Saddlestone Connemara Pony Listening School, #4

By Elaine Heney

9 year old Fiona lives in Kildare with her beloved Connemara pony Foxtrot. She dreams of earning a spot on the Irish young riders dressage team. But Fiona's world shatters when she unexpectedly finishes last in the dressage competition at Galway's famous Saddlestone Connemara Pony School. Is Fiona's dream of earning a place on the Irish dressage team over? Or can Foxtrot and Fiona turn things around at Saddlestone with Mrs. Thundercare's help?  Follow the captivating journey of Fiona & Foxtrot in this endearing Saddlestone Connemara Pony Listening School Adventure!

 

This wholesome and beautifully told horse story is perfect for horse-crazy kids aged 7 upwards.  Written by international horsewoman and award-winning documentary director, Elaine Heney, this tender and touching story explores the depth of the relationship that can be created between child and pony - that can last a lifetime. This book includes educational horsemanship and horse training lessons, including tips on collection, softness, self-carriage and horsemanship, based on the principles of good horsemanship. This is the perfect children's equestrian book and gift for young readers, girls, boys and all who love great horse stories to curl up with and enjoy. By listening to the horse everything becomes possible.

 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Elaine Heney
• Release date: Jul 30, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223007449

Book preview

Chapter 1

The sun was just peeking over the green hills of Galway as a large, glossy horse lorry passed through Athlone, Ballinasloe and then Athenry, on its way to the Saddlestone Connemara Pony Listening School.

Mum, Dad, Fiona began, looking at her parents in the front seats with a firm expression.

This place had better be good, because if it's not good, I’m not going to stay there!

Her parents turned to face her, their expressions slightly bemused.

Not good enough? her mother asked, her voice gentle yet apprehensive.

Right now I’m ranked as one of the top young dressage riders in Kildare, Fiona stated, her tone matter-of-fact.

And I fully expect to be picked for the Irish young riders dressage team this year. So, I need the best dressage trainers to make that happen, but I’ve never heard of any international dressage riders from Galway!

Fiona love, we've done our research, her father assured her, glancing at her angry face with a hint of exhaustion in his eyes.

Saddlestone has top-notch instructors. That's why we agreed when you found the golden Saddlestone ticket that you should take this opportunity.

But Dad, you have to understand, Fiona pressed on, her voice echoing around the lorry.

Foxtrot and I are a winning team. The most important thing is that I get a place on the Irish national dressage team this year. Nothing else matters!

Yes, Fiona, her mother said patiently, We know how important this is to you. And we assure you, we wouldn't have  suggested that you go to Saddlestone if we didn't think it was the right fit for you.

And the trainers? Fiona asked, her brows furrowing. Are they experienced in dressage?

Indeed, they are, her father replied.

Mr. Gallagher, for one, has decades of experience in horse riding and competitions and has helped many young equestrians like you reach their potential.

And Mrs. Thundercare the principal, won the Irish eventing world championship back in the 80s. She was literally the best in the world, her Mum added.

Hmm, Fiona mused, eyeing her parents carefully. Well, they better be good or I won't be happy. Foxtrot deserves the best and so do I.

Fiona dear, her mother said, a soft smile playing on her lips.

You are a talented rider but remember, it's not just about winning. It's about growing, learning more about Foxtrot, having fun and making friends.

This isn’t about having fun Mum. I’m here to win, Fiona replied, her gaze hardening with determination, as she looked out the windows at the stone walls and rolling green fields of Galway.

Fiona’s parents exchanged a tired look between them. They hoped the instructors at Saddlestone were ready for Fiona.

Chapter 2

An hour later, the large horsebox rolled through the wrought-iron gates of Saddlestone.

In the still morning air, the clinking of the cattle grid echoed across the school grounds, grabbing the attention of a few early birds among the students.

A determined face peeked out of the lorry's window. Nine-year-old Fiona, took in the view of her new school. The stone walls speckled with ivy, the old sash windows and weathered slate roof.

Sheep grazed peacefully in the nearby meadows, their wool shimmering like silver in the soft morning light. In the distance, the glittering surface of a lake beckoned, framed by a scattering of wildflowers.

Inside the lorry, Foxtrot, Fiona's magnificent bay Connemara pony peered curiously out of the window. He was a dressage champion, much like Fiona herself. His coat was gleaming, even in the dull light of the horsebox.

As the lorry pulled up next to the stable block, a commanding figure emerged from the main building. Mrs. Thundercare, her silver hair neatly tied into a stern bun, surveyed the new arrival with her piercing blue eyes.

A sense of authority radiated from her, causing a few watching students to straighten their backs instinctively.

Good morning, Fiona, she called, her booming voice resonating through the stillness of the