Nice to see an article that encourages this wonderful sport,but I would like to comment that not every riding horse is suitable to be a driving horse. It is imperative that any potential driving horse stand willingly,without question. Any horse that is spooky,with a tendency to spin,is not a good candidate. Despite what some people seem to think,it is not"easy" or something "anybody can do". It requires excellent reinsmanship,with light and sympathetic hands. You no longer have legs or seat,so must know how to use your whip and voice in their place. Safety is paramount,as an accident involving a loose horse dragging an overturned vehicle in his wake can be a real disaster. There is nothing quite like being seated behind your horse,watching him use his body,something you cannot do in the saddle. Driving,when undertaken safely,with the help of a knowledgeable "whip"(driver) is some of the most fun you can have with your horse! You can take along non-horsey friends and family and hold a conversation. Thanks for encouraging driving and most importantly,doing so safely!
THIS IS A WAY THAT A HORSEMAN, LIKE MTSELF, CAN CONTINVE TO COMPEATE WITH ABLE BODIED HORSEMEN. BEFORE I BROKE MT BACK I COMPETED IN LONG DISTENCE ENDURANCE RIDING, JUMPING, AND SHOWING MY ARAB STALLION IN FORMAL DRIVING AND PARK. BUT TO TELL YOU THE TRUTH I LOVED ANY FORM OF DRIVING. AS FOR PICKING YOUR HORSE. HE SHOULD HAVE A NICE EYE. YOU CAN TELL ALOT ABOUT A HORSE ABOUT HOW HIS EYE LOOKS. DON'T RUSH YOUR GROUND WORK. IF YOU THINK YOU'VE WORKED ENOUGH, PUT IN ANOTHER WEEK. THEY HAVE CARTS THAT THE DISABLED CAN EASILY GET ON BOARD.
What a great article! I LOVE driving. I've been driving my mini for 5 years now and we have so much fun exploring together. I also drive a couple of draughts and it's great to be able to bring my non horsey friends with me.
I can't wait to start driving my 3 year old filly! Since we live in a rural area, we should have lots of fun exploring together.