Download a printable version of this pageIf you grew up riding hunters 20 years ago, chances are you mastered the art of braiding a hunter’s mane. It was simply part of a show horse’s turnout. But with unrated divisions...
Click here to download a pdf of this page.A neatly braided tail accentuates a hunter’s hindquarters. It adds to the overall picture of refinement and elegance, which makes it a pity that braided tails are rarely seen outside the...
There is more to dressage competition than the ability to create a good pattern. Correct basics, a proper seat and a display of good horsemanship can go far to impress a judge. However, you can also leave a bad...
Performing in trail classes sounds so easy — after all, you aren't actually out on the trails battling wild creatures and dangerous ditches or fallen trees. You're riding in a nice, safe arena, on soft footing and around contrived...
We've all heard it, maybe even said it ourselves: "If I could afford a $20,000 horse who moved like that I could win, too!" And to be perfectly honest, perhaps that's even partly true for some events, where championship...
There’s more to polo than chukkers, mallets and fancy horses with closely cropped manes. If you want to investigate the game and see if you really do have a passion for polo, try taking a few lessons with an...
We’ve all heard the jokes and the ridicule. We’ve heard western pleasure horses called peanut rollers, zombies and creepers. It’s been claimed that time-elapsed photography is the best way to determine if they are actually moving around the arena,...
The 4-D format has become quite popular in barrel racing, thanks in large part to the National Barrel Racing Association (NBHA), but if you’re new to the sport or haven’t shown using the 4-D format, here’s how it works:All...
The consequences of jet lag in horses have become more relevant in recent years due to international competition and the import/export of horses worldwide. If you’ve flown internationally, you understand how “out of sorts” jet lag can make you...
When it comes to grooming for a show, most of an equestrian’s energy ends up focused on the horse; but a rider’s turnout needs to be neat and tidy, too. Here are some strategies to help you stay as spotless as...
