2 year old colt - Where do I start?

Question
A friend has a 2 year old colt and has asked me to spend some time with it, it is reasonable behaved and will walk on a lead rein and loves being groomed. What other things should I do with him to give him a structured learning plan to help to make him into a confident horse?

Answer
Hello Joanne,

At two a colt can be groomed, saddled, bridled and led around. Then put out to pasture until he is three. Or if he is stabled, he can be handled, but not ridden until he is three. Then saddle, bridle, mount and ride on long straight lines like in trail riding. He can walk, trot or canter if he chooses.  No circles, lunging or round pen until he is 4.  If you follow this you will have a confident, sound stallion, unless he is gelded. If so, it should be around two.  Otherwise he may become difficult to handle.

Happy riding,
Dorothy