In top-class competitive horse-events, large amounts of aptitude, dedication and hard work are essential. Your body and mind have to be sharp and fit no matter the event. When there are big competitions ahead, it’s essential to stay focused. The competitor who loses concentration is unlikely to attain goals. It’s very healthy to want to learn and improve all the time. Ask yourself, “Where did I go wrong?” “How can I improve?” “Who could really help me?”
The most important thing that you could ever learn is that everything in the competitive arena should be approached in a light-hearted manner, with good humour and above all, good sportsmanship. If you prefer a good-looking horse to a plain-looking horse, then showing might be the ideal discipline for you. N ow, of course, everyone thinks that little Neddy is pretty, well-behaved and has wonderful movement, but there are many different categories to show horses and ponies: classes for ponies of different heights, based mainly If your horse is good-looking it could be a natural in the ring. horse therapy on the pony’s conformation and pace; working classes for performance and jumping ability; classes for different breeds – which could be shown in-hand or under saddle; and classes for working hunters and show hunters.
Finding the right horse
Finding a top-class pony or horse could be difficult and expensive. A show horse must have a pleasing appearance and be well-mannered and elegant as it moves. Conformation and presence are very important. good instructor would be honest with you and tell you if you have the right type of horse to show with. It’s particularly important that show horses and ponies have a good, impressive walk. good trot can only be developed if the horse really has had his hocks under him, so the forehand is lightened.
The hack
The hack, as a type of show horse, had its origins in the days when it was fashionable to ride in streets and parks. Horses were constantly on show to the general public. The hack needs an indefinable “presence” to be truly eye-catching. It’s not a specific breed; it’s usually a crossbreed with good qualities. Horses and ponies that are shown in-hand rather that under saddle, could be any breed. It’s an excellent way to introduce a young horse to the demands and disciplines of the show ring. Classes range from heavy horses to a small, light-framed horse, with special classes for brood mares and foals. Judging is based on conformation and type, and placing is bound to depend on the individual preference of judges.
The basic training for any show horse or pony is the same for any other horse. S tart with a six-week legging-up programme. Then use patient training and exercise on the lunge to make your horse supple as well as getting it to move forward freely. It’s very important to take your horse out for gentle hacks to help relax its mind and it’s a good idea to find some “horsey” friends to hack with. Presentation of a show horse or pony is important. Besides being trimmed clean at the heels and around the muzzle, and groomed to shining perfection – all white markings need to be spotless. Manes can look best plaited. Where to start s with every discipline the best place to start is as a spectator. Talk to the people at shows. Then, you can find the class that you enjoy the most. Your tastes are likely to change as you compete. So, be sure before you go looking for a new horse. If you love beautiful horses and enjoy training them, this is definitely a discipline to look into. – Kim Dyson (082 888 6511) |fw