Honest critiques wanted! :)

Hello,

I would like two critiques.. BE HONEST!

One of my horse's conformation and overall look.
His name is Shamrock and he is a six year old, 16 hh Quarter horse. He was my high school graduation present and my first horse! I got him from a man where he had absolutely no job but to eat grass and was told he was broke to ride, but hadn't been in over a year. I fell in love with him at first sight, without test riding him or seeing him ridden, and we bought him for $500. I know that this is BIG no-no in the equine world. However, I've seemed to luck out with him, the farrier and my trainer have had nothing but nice things to say about him. When I tried riding him for the first time, I realized that he didn't know simple commands. When I kicked, he backed up. I've been training him for around 6 months now (he's the first horse I've trained) and am proud to say he know walks, trots, canters, and is starting to jump! But that's just a little brag. ;)

EXCUSE THE BOOBOOS IN HIS PICTURE! This was taken not long after I got him & during the time when he was still being "initiated" into the herd in his pasture. :P

Second of my equitation.
I've been riding for around nine years. I only ride English and have only been taught to ride English.

Thanks for your opinons!

Oh, and here's the link to a video.. let me know if it doesn't work!
http://www.facebook.com/video/video....50361288023873

The video link doesn't work

Is it because it's Facebook and my privacy settings on there?
I clicked on it and it went to it for me.

Try this.
<object width="400" height="224" ><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><param name="movie" value="http://www.facebook.com/v/10150361288023873" /><embed src="http://www.facebook.com/v/10150361288023873" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="400" height="224"></embed></object>

Sorry - says video unavailable.. you should probably just post it on youtube..

It is uploading to YouTube now, bear with me!

FINALLY.. The video!
Hope it works this time. :)

I don't know much about riding English, but it seems that you both are having a lot of fun - he looks very relaxed - good job

Thanks! :)

First off, what discipline are you aiming for...hunters/dressage/event? It will greatly affect any critique I give.

You have a handsome guy, and I see no glaring conformation problems. I am a bit concerned that his trimming is so uneven on his front feet, causing longer toes on the LF.