11.07.2015 Views

Show Ring - The Welsh Pony & Cob Society of Australia Inc

Show Ring - The Welsh Pony & Cob Society of Australia Inc

Show Ring - The Welsh Pony & Cob Society of Australia Inc

SHOW MORE
SHOW LESS
  • No tags were found...

Create successful ePaper yourself

Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.

Training and ProductionA Lead rein pony should be well schooled in its intended task. Unfortunately some competitors endeavour to traintheir ponies at shows or view the Lead Rein Class as a mere extra chance to gain an easy piece <strong>of</strong> that that everyelusive felt, by throwing on the nearest child at the last minute. I have even heard <strong>of</strong> unbroken ponies having theirfirst jockey aboard ever in a leading rein Class. This can only lead to disaster for all parties involved.<strong>The</strong> preparation <strong>of</strong> the pony should always include working in a snaffle bit and mouthing tack. Correctly fittedstretchy or elasticised side reins help with the head carriage. <strong>The</strong>se should be attached loosely from the bit to thesaddle. Long reining is a superb discipline for encouraging the ponies to go forward in a correct fashion. It alsomeans that the pony learns to obey voice commands. <strong>The</strong>y should be worked for 10 to 15 minutes only to alleviateboredom. Avoid long spells <strong>of</strong> daily lunging as this only develops stamina and a sharpness, which is not requiredand is a distinct disadvantage in this event.Do not school or train the jockey in just one set workout or show as you are sure to come unstuck with a judge whoasks for something different. Lead rein ponies should have lots <strong>of</strong> freedom in the paddock if their figures will allow.This will keep them fresh and happy in their outlook on life, Nothing looks worse than a sour lead rein ponyworking with its ears flatback. Care must be taken in the feeding <strong>of</strong> lead rein ponies, as one has to strike a happymedium <strong>of</strong> a well-covered pony with a healthy shiny coat, yet maintaining a quiet and happy disposition.Good Luck, but remember overall that this class should be viewed as a foundation for the future members <strong>of</strong> our<strong>Society</strong> and should be enjoyed by all participants.WP & CS <strong>of</strong> <strong>Australia</strong> <strong>Inc</strong>. Handbook 2013.<strong>The</strong> <strong>Show</strong> <strong>Ring</strong> 12 | P a g e

Hooray! Your file is uploaded and ready to be published.

Saved successfully!

Ooh no, something went wrong!