An oversized Labrador with an amazing jump

DOB: 11/2015 (Rising 11)

Height: 17hh

Sex: Gelding

Location: Peat’s Ridge, being brought back into work after a long spell with BJW Equine. Price reflects his current fitness level.

If you’re looking for a big, loyal gentle giant who acts like an oversized Labrador and will stop at nothing to keep you safe, meet Hercules (we call him Hercy).

Hercy is a complete sook at heart, but don’t let his gentle nature fool you—he’s as brave as they come. He is the kind of horse that genuinely takes care of his rider. He’s kept me safe from snakes out on the trail, held me securely in the saddle when I’ve completely missed a stride, and tries so hard to do the right thing because pleasing his human is his absolute priority.

I’ve had Hercy for 3 years as my very first horse, and he has been incredibly patient with me through a steep learning curve. He brings bravery, athletic talent, kindness, and serious presence to every arena or trail he enters.

The only reason he is for sale is that my life has gotten manic. Hercy genuinely thrives on a human connection and loves being ridden 5–6 days a week. With my schedule, I can now only get out once or twice a week, and he’s getting bored and frustrated. He deserves a home where he gets the consistency and attention he craves.

• In the Saddle: No buck, no bite, no rear.

• On the Ground: Easy to catch, shoe, and walks straight onto the float (especially if he has a friend).

• Affection Style: He’s a total cuddle bug with a notoriously itchy face who loves using his human as a personal scratching post! Because he genuinely doesn’t realize how big he is, he can be a little pushy on the ground, but he responds wonderfully to a handler who sets clear, polite boundaries.

Hercy is trained up to 1.10m at home and has successfully competed out at 1m, recently taking home a 2nd place. He is an exceptionally scopey jumper at SSJC—very forward-thinking and a true "point-and-shoot" ride for someone who enjoys speed. With a confident, competent rider, he has all the talent to go much higher.

Away from the arena, Hercy is a dream. He’s exceptionally bold, loves to take the lead, and is fearless in the bush (including taking charge when snakes appear!). While XC-style puddles aren't his favorite and he’ll try to step around them, he loves open water and will happily take you swimming on his back.

With only 4 starts on the track and retired for nearly 6 years, his legs are clean and sound. He has a few knobbly bits on his knees from being a precious sleep crasher, but these have been fully X-rayed and CT-scanned with a completely clear bill of health.

Hercy requires a competent, kind, and confident rider who can channel his energy and enjoy a forward, enthusiastic mount. Most importantly, he needs a full-time, consistent work schedule. If you give him the time and work, he will give you his absolute heart and soul in return.

I am also looking to sell his complete, high-quality gear setup ($4,000 value, offering the entire bundle for $1,900):

• Jump saddle & Dressage saddle

• Bridle with two bits, breastplates (x2), martingale, chambon

• 7 rugs, travel boots, tendon boots, riser, 3 saddle pads

• Halter, 2 lead ropes, lunge rein, lunge whip, and full grooming kit

Devastated to be making this decision, but finding him the right full-time partner is what's best for him. Serious inquiries only.