behaviour at the field gate

Question
I have just moved my 15 year old very quiet mare to a private yard.  She has always been lowest in the pecking order and bullied so thought this yard would be ideal as there is just one 7 year old gelding.  My pony is 14.1hh and the gelding is only 11hh and very friendly and quiet.

My mare has started bullying him at the gate and what started with just ears back and threats is now turning into bites.  In the field they are ok together but as soon as anyone arrives at the yard they are both over like a shot and both want to stand at the gate.  

Please can you give me some advice as to how i can help sort out her behaviour.  She is normally the sweetest pony and i am stuck as to how to train her on this issue.  The gelding is very passive and quiet and isnt doing anything wrong at all.

Thanks very much.

Answer
Hi Joanne!

As much as I would like to be able to, I cannot control or train a horse about how it treats other horses.

She will never stop being the boss mare around this little guy and he will always let her win the fight.  Done deal.

The only thing you can do is to not reward her with treats or affection for being first to the gate.  Carry a crop and if she bites him in front of you, YOU must assume the role of boss mare and smack her a good one as a "horse speak" correction in a herd situation.  

Good luck and remember to always wear an ASTM/SEI approved helmet!

Solange