PG . 23
‘ 4 & 5yo WP Derby , Dont Doubt Daisy Q-93458 , Taj Carson for Maco Park Pty Ltd ’
I ’ d trained myself . It ’ s A Pretty Thing and Don ’ t Doubt Daisy not only lead the Maco Park showteam , they have outstanding babies on the ground , and coming next season . From my upcoming youngsters , my most exciting is CP Showstoppin , Heartstoppin X It ’ s a Pretty Thing . We have a big future planned out for her .’
MACO PARK
Taj says that Maco Park is a beautiful facility . Located in Hatton Vale , in southeast Queensland , it was previously an established spelling facility , which the family converted to suit their breeding and training needs . Future plans include a covered arena , and a breeding and foaling barn .
‘ Our breeding program ’ s based around Western Pleasure mares with outstanding temperaments that have successfully competed in Australia at an Open Futurity level — mares like Xtreme Dream , by HF Somethin Hot , No Doubt Im Dreamin , by No Doubt Im Lazy , Born For This , by Smoochin , Raisin My Investment , by Invitation Only , and Only If You Love Me , by VS Code Red .
TAJ ON TRAINING
Taj loves training Quarter Horses , trusting their temperament and trainability to be safe enough for a 5yo kid or a 75yo rider .
From the breaking process to showing – it ’ s a massive transformation . With so many ups and downs along the way , he says there ’ s always some new motivation .
Whether it ’ s a first ride on a breaker and they go around soft and confidently , or chasing that feeling of perfection on a broke , finished show horse . It all brings a smile to Taj ’ s face .
‘ I look for a horse that ’ s out of a great mare . Mare power makes a big difference in prospect quality . Prospects must be well-balanced and square with a good hock set , and when they move , have an even stride , front and back , in both directions at the lope , with nice flat knees up front . A short , tight jog is a big bonus , as it ’ s probably the hardest gait to train , if they ’ re not a natural at it . Finally , I love a slow mind-set and slow legs . In training , I focus on consistency throughout a horse ’ s entire training program – it ’ s so important .
2023 AQHA YEARBOOK ~ MAY / JUNE ISSUE