Carrie's Blog

Speaking of bits, I’d like to mention that ACTHA is changing the ruling regarding two hands on a shank bit. Henceforth, there will be no longer be a mandatory deduction for riding with two hands on any bit. We realize that the severity of a bit is in the hands of the rider. So, Judges will now have complete discretion on this matter. If a horse appears to be uncomfortable or resistant, the judge may deduct points from that rider. Heavy hands are never a pleasure to watch! But let’s talk about “good hands”. Good hands are developed from a good seat. If a rider is well balanced in the saddle, and is able to develop good supportive leg strength, then they should never find themselves balancing off the horse’s mouth. This is akin to riding the clutch of a standard transmission. Your clutch will go out, and so will your horse’s mouth. I can’t tell you of the horror stories I have heard of people saying their horse flipped over backwards with them. I have never seen a horse flip over backwards in nature, and it usually has something to do with a human. When we are riding trail, we are on uneven and steep terrain. Your horse will appreciate a balanced ride, with no interference to his mouth and head. Let him do HIS JOB! When a horse is struggling to maintain his balance, and a rider interferes with his efforts, he will often fill trapped and panic. Can you imagine, a backpack on your back, and sitting in that backpack is a monkey, and that monkey is holding a wire in your mouth, and you are trying to do something athletic. What would you have that monkey do? So, this New Year, let’s make every effort to be the best rider you can be. Ride on, Carrie