This is Cody's Miss Magnolia. She's performing a foxtrot that many foxtrotter breeders would give an arm and leg for. This no-nonsense AQHA mare ignored her reining bloodlines to become one of the finest endurance horses seen in her time. I remember at one competition, the Arab folks laughed...
Since you are a first time horse owner you need a horse who is trained in what you want to do. Geldings have a tendency to be more consistent in their temperament. Some mares are moody and unpredictable due to hormonal changes. By colt do you mean a youngster who needs training or an intact...
Ace's Rainmaker aka Little Man. Brought him home last week. Basically a pasture pet the last few months, he's learning (remembering) the basics of good horse manners.