Sarge is a 6-year-old purebred Haflinger gelding (Sire Southern Spirit), 14.2hh and barefoot, being sold on behalf of his owner. He is the half-brother to Gus, (also listed) but the greener of the two — and a very different personality.
Sarge is a strong-willed, thinking horse who is always trying to find the right answer. He has a genuine work ethic and, once he understands something, he will offer it again and again — he enjoys getting it right and showing you that he knows. He’s the type that builds a real partnership with his person and thrives on attention and connection.
Under saddle, Sarge is forward, steady, and not spooky, with no buck, bolt, or rear. While he is technically green, he doesn’t present as unpredictable — but he does require clear boundaries and consistency to bring out his best.
He has done plenty of solo trekking, where he is confident and relaxed, and has also been on group rides with one clear consideration: he does not like horses riding up close behind him and will kick out if crowded. Managed simply by riding him at the back of the group, he settles well.
The beach is a highlight for Sarge. He will walk straight into the water, is comfortable in the waves, and has a lovely, steady canter down the beach, with the ability to come back to a relaxed walk and then go forward again when asked.
Sarge is excellent over obstacles, confidently handling varied terrain and happily popping over logs with a neat, tidy jump. He would make a fantastic trick or versatility pony, as he enjoys learning and engaging with his work.
Suitability
Sarge is best suited to a competent, experienced rider who enjoys working with a thinking horse and is willing to continue his education. In the right hands, he will be an incredibly rewarding partner with a lot to offer.
He is not suited to:
Beginners
Nervous or inconsistent riders
Homes without paddock company
Long term, he will thrive as a versatile pleasure and trekking horse with a rider who values a willing partner.
Management
Barefoot and strong in varied terrain
Native breed — requires diet management
Must have paddock company
Will do best in a herd-based or track-style system
He can be sold with his fitted saddle for ease of transition.
Ongoing Support
Sarge does have a couple of quirks that require experienced handling:
He needs patience and consistency when tied
He will stomp his front foot to get attention (his way of saying “come get me, let’s go”)
He can offer the same behaviour when floating, particularly when the float stops
These behaviours have already improved significantly with consistent handling.
The key is not rewarding the behaviour, and waiting for the correct response before releasing or engaging with him. He is a horse that learns patterns quickly — which is a strength when handled well, but requires someone disciplined and consistent to continue reinforcing the right answers.