Meet the Geldings

Corky Corky is a handsome dark bay Morgan who, like his buddy Darren, came from U.C. Davis where he taught English style riding and dressage. He’s like a giant teddy bear with a plush winter coat that is the envy of all the other horses in the barn. He is short in stature in comparison with the other geldings, but he doesn’t let his smaller stature deter him from bossing the bigger geldings around, including Darren, who towers over him. He likes to stir things up in the herd when they are romping in the exercise area. He does especially well with riders who need to work on stability and balance. Corky teaches strength.

Darren Darren, a solid Quarter Horse, is the tallest horse in the barn. He came to Giant Steps from U.C. Davis where he taught the finer points of jumping. If Darren were a dog, he’d be a Labrador Retriever. He’s the strong, silent type, calm, stoic and eager to please. When Darren opens his eyes really wide, that is his way of saying that something is going on that may not be to his liking. While Darren works well with all riders, he specializes in working with those who ride independently. He’s faithful and consistent and takes excellent care of his riders. Darren teaches gentleness and consistency.

Mr. Bee Mr. Bee came to Giant Steps in July of 2009 when his owner, Katie Kunde, generously loaned him to work with the folks at Giant Steps. Mr.Bee is a handsome quarter horse-appaloosa cross. His impressive resume includes many years of experience in dressage. He is used to being in the spotlight and being the star performer. Mr. Bee gives the best and expects the best from his riders and handlers. When given the opportunity to work with experienced riders, Mr. Bee is calm, dependable and predictable, the epitome of a venerable equine gentleman. He thrives on attention and loves an audience, so he can exhibit his showmanship. He would prefer not being on a lead, something beneath his capable and confident experience. Mr. Bee teaches riding skills.

Pepé Pepé, a nine year old Tennessee Walker, is the class clown of the barn. It’s hard to imagine being gloomy for too long in the presence of this slapstick comedian who flaps his lips, tosses his head, and wags his long tongue from side to side, while stomping his hooves. He crosses his legs, contrary to what horses usually do, and when he plays he can jumps straight up in the air, all four hooves aloft. He’s been observed standing with his front hooves on fence rails. He is affectionate and loves attention. He’s clever enough to open the stall door, reminiscent of that marvelous t.v. comedian horse, Mr. Ed. Pepé works well with riders who have an animated form of autism. His boisterous nature draws the rider’s attention and has a calming effect, enabling the rider to focus and concentrate. Pepé teaches a sense of humor.