I didn't want to hold them back. They were hooping and hollering and having a good time bumping into each other and cowboying it up. It looked like fun but I was uncomfortable getting her in to that, since I already had my hands full. They offered but seemed happy to move on when I told them that was ok. I got "checked on" a few times. I don't think SL knew what she wanted. The sand dunes scared her and set things up. Even when I was close to the group she didn't seem to be able to stand still and when I would cue her to move on she would fight me. Then she wan't to jig to catch up and didn't want to slow to a walk. Even whoas, which is her favorite part of riding was hard. I had to get firm with the bit. I think it was just new stuff. She didn't act like she wanted to be with the other horses but didn't want them leaving either. When we put her in the trailer she was still neighing to them. It was actually fun though and she did fantastic in some ways but I just don't know about this group thing.
I don't care for really large groups either, because of the very reasons you are stating. There is always an @$$ in the group.
I'm not trying to tell you what to do, but IMO:), the best thing for you to do, is pick one our two people who you know will ride in a nice polite manner with you, and won't mind waiting while you settle your horse. It may be you will have to approach them and ask, but those types will probably be glad to help. Surely there are a few at your stable who would do that???
Becky
You've heard me talk about riding with groups, some are good, some are cowboys, and I like best riding with just my husband most of the time. Still, I hope you can go again with someone, till you learn where the trails are and can find some real friends that fit your style. I bet you wouldn't have as much trouble if you were at a ride somewhere other than the ocean.
Lots of horses get antsy and on the muscle when you're starting out, they're nervous, it's a new place. IMHO, the ocean is a fairly varsity place to ride. Lots of things like the wind (which always makes horses squirrely) blowing things, cars, dogs, tourists, and the big huge water, that all can be a challenge to deal with.