SLEHS​​ EQUESTRIAN

Pay attention to setting up, pivoting (wow!), the quarter system and the distance she stops from the judge.

Remember to practice showmanship in a well-fitting leather halter and a lead line (with or without chain). Although it's true that you can practice in ANY halter, horses associate certain tack with certain disciplines - let's take advantage of that! Also, leather halters typically fit more closely (and are more adjustable) than nylon halters, which are likely to turn and slip when pressure is applied. If you aren't sure if your halter is adjusted correctly, bring it to practice and we'll check it out for you!

Showmanship Basics:  

Set-up (4 seconds to set up is goal)

§         "down & back" to line up the rear (just fix one foot - or you'll end up backing across the arena!)

§         "up & forward" to place the front feet

Pivot:

§         from the shoulder, not the nose! (you may be able to move further forward as pivot is perfected)

§         outside hind is planted (hind foot that is farthest away from you)

§         be patient and start with just one step at first - praise often!

§         remember - you're the "boss mare" and you're asking that shoulder to MOVE OVER!

Quarter system:

§         eye contact with judge and SMILE!

§         same half as judge, but you don't share a quarter!

Trot/walk to judge to set-up:

§         stop an arm's length (or arm and a half) away from judge

§         horse lines up with judge (the handler does not line up with the judge)

§         keep horse's head straight (or slightly away from you) when you halt, so horse stops straight

KEEP A SMILE & HELP YOUR HORSE RELAX – THIS IS FUN - I PROMISE !