John John in training

John is getting stronger & faster. The interesting thing (to me) is that his trainer says he can go either way: running walk or rack.

John-John, by JFK

Training a young, gaited horse involves putting all the moving parts together. For example, Charlie is teaching John how to propel himself forward by moving off his rear end; yet, John needs to pick up his front feet & reach & also nod his head in rhythm to his steps. It's a lot for a youngster to remember to do all at once, but Charlie is a patient teacher.