Over-broke in the poll

[LouBob]

I have a 5yr old mare that is overbroke at the poll. With a bit in her mouth, if you ask her to collect at your rate point, she breaks at the poll instead of getting in the ground and rating down to turn. I tried putting your rope nose hack on her and I had tremendous rate without the bit contact in her mouth, but it made her extremely stiff in her turns. What else can I do to prevent her breaking so much at the poll?

[Bob Gould]

You could have overdone the circles but I'm guessing that you probably are
holding on to you inside rein just a bit too long instead of releasing your
horse at point 3 and riding him forward to the rate point at the next
barrel.  Remember to send him forward with your body - not just your legs -
and be sure you are not using your reins to balance as you leave the turn.
Martha Wright

[Bob Gould]

You didn't say what kind of bit you were using.....  that could be crucial
in determining what is causing your problem.  What kind of mouthpiece does
the bit have?
Martha Wright

[LouBob]

I have her in the Lifter bit, that is on your website, medium shank......Thanks for all your help and suggestions! I appreciate them!