by Bev Campbell
long ago in a feild not to far away a young colt on wabbly legs, blind in his left eye he stood leary along side his mother. His strenght built and courage rised as he grew. he was destined to race, but for him racing would take most of his life, a successful runner he paid his dues and was retired from the track at nine years old 'On My Good Side' was weak and tierd, many injurys and yet he still ran. Now he needed rest. But for him this was not to be. Used and abused he became a trail horse, and seen as 'quiet' when truly he was weak and tierd. on his tenth year he would be re-sold and I would discover him.
Many saw that I was the rescuer, but the fact is it was he who saved me in more ways then anyone will know. Three years took us through many difficult situations, but we do learn from our mistakes, then two years ago I found out that I could ask for help. When I did I found the true horse in 'On My Good Side' an unsung hero who would begin my path to success he taught me selflesness, humblness, honesty gave me courage, and offered me friendship, in return all he asked was understanding. For this horse I owe so much.
In July of this year Pi (On My Good Side) Was diagnosed with severe arthritis in his hips and hocks due to running, starting gate injurys and other incedences on the track. We tried a number of options to keep him from pain, and keep him happy, but in August when I rode in the ring he stopped. As clear as day he said to me ' I'm ready. '
This horse I could never take away his will to run, he was born and raised to run and I for one am not going to take that away from him.
On September first 2001 Pi was led to a soft paddock surounded by friends, and incouraged to be freed. I was able to say goodbye to the best friend and teacher I could ever ask for, I was able to see him on his way. I had the strengh for him to be strong as he slipped away so he would know that I would be ok. He was aloud to run once more up to the gates of Heaven.
Not many people get to say goodbye to there beloved friends. I am greatful for all that he gave to me, the least I could do for him is see him out of this would safely. Not struggling to survive somewhere in a pasture, so crippled that he cannot help himself up.
For On My Good Side,
You were always 'On My Side'