First off, I want to thank grey horse and onthebit for their input and blogs! Keep the info coming from all!
The 1st show I would even attempt is the one coming up at the end of next month. The entry closing date for this one has passed. However, it will give me the opportunity to stop by and observe the tests being ridden to see where the movements occur and how they ride out. Then I will have the image in my mind when I attempt to practice the moves at home. I have to fake a dressage arena in the riding ring behind the barn. At least there I am quite certain my letters won't be disturbed. Hmm, now I have to make some letters...
Monty can ride in almost any bit. We showed hunters in a Dr. Bristol D or a myler twist D with copper roller at the center joint. He's hunter paced with either a happy mouth kimberwicke or a 2 ring sweet iron dutch gag but I use 2 reins like a pelham and tend to ride mostly from the snaffle rein. He tends to respond better with a 3-piece mouth, such as a French link or Bristol.
For schooling at home I use a French link type loose ring snaffle made from sweet iron with a copper lozenge in the center. That is my bit question, there are no rollers and all mouth parts are smooth, so that is good, I just want to be sure about the metals. I can't find anything in the rule books that state I can't use this kind of bit but I don't want any surprises. Monty has always had a dry mouth so I like to use metals that help him salivate a bit. I also am very generous with peppermints and sugar cubes to help this along. He's funny though, he hates to drool. As soon as foam and spit form around his mouth he tries to slurp it back in!
4 comments:
I have always loved the Dr Bristol bits and french link snaffles... the horses just seem happier in them.
Cant wait to hear how the shoes goes... keeping fingers crossed for you!
If you can't find anything in the rule books or online to answer your questions, why don't you bring the bit with you to the show when you go to observe and when there is a break in the action, go ask the judge if it is allowed in the classes you are thinking of entering. Don't drive yourself crazy that should be easy enough.Good Luck.
Hey, thanks greyhorse, that's a really great idea!
sorry for the delayed response...Genny has kept me busy. I have been a ring steward and you bit would be fine...except for the copper. Mixed metal bits are not allowed in USDF shows, but you are just schooling so I doubt anyone will check, especially since you are riding over. Genny went in a loose ring snaffle with a french key every show so I KNOW that is legal. Good idea to go and watch the show this time arounds...I def. think you need to try the show ring again...I mean no matter what it will give you lots to write about at least :P
Post a Comment