Poki

Poki is the kind of horse every barn hopes for — the steady presence, the trusted teacher, and the quiet leader who looks after everyone around her. A Quarter Horse with more than a decade of experience as a lesson horse, Poki has spent her life taking care of people, one rider at a time.

Long before she became the matriarch of the Second Chance herd, Poki was already shaping riders’ confidence. She carried children through their first rides, supported adults as they learned to trust themselves, and patiently guided hundreds of people through the early moments of their riding journeys. When the opportunity came to bring a horse home, there was no question — Poki was already family.

Now in her early twenties, Poki carries herself with the quiet confidence that only comes from years of experience. She is kind, patient, and deeply dependable. A young child can sit on her back, or an adult rider can take the reins, and Poki will meet each person exactly where they are. She isn’t rushed, reactive, or careless — she is thoughtful, aware, and always paying attention.

In her younger years, Poki was a barrel horse, and that athletic foundation still shows in her balance and collection. While her competition days are behind her, she remains strong, sure-footed, and confident. These days, she’s happiest out on the trail, enjoying adventures with the herd — whether that’s a peaceful ride through familiar paths or joining in on special outings like beach trips.

On the ground, Poki is a gentle soul — affectionate, calm, and easy to be around. Under saddle, she shifts into work mode with quiet authority. She understands her responsibility and takes it seriously. Poki is forgiving, but she is also honest — a horse who teaches riders not just how to ride, but how to listen, balance, and respect the partnership.

At Second Chance, Poki is the matriarch of the ranch. Poki brings calm to new situations, and offers riders a sense of safety that cannot be taught or trained — only earned through time. She is often the very first horse a new rider meets, and she is worth her weight in gold.

Poki doesn’t just carry riders. She takes care of them.

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