Dropping shoulder

[MAP]

Martha,  I have a 10 year old gelding who over the last few years I have had issues with.  First of all my saddle was stolen and I had trouble getting a new saddle to fit (he is real wide in his front end), then I had problems with his feet.  I  ?think? I have him on the right track back, but he has hurt for so long that he is dropping his shoulder real bad on the second barrel.  I have regressed him and worked him slow, but when I add speed he drops.  He is a extremely powerful horse and when he goes, I cannot pick him up.   What bit/exercises do you suggest? 

Thank you,
MAP

[Bob Gould]

You didn't say what kind of bit your were riding him with so it's just a
shot in the dark knowing what to suggest.  It sounds like he is coming
"unbroke" when you speed up and my suggestion would be to put a pretzel bit
on him.  It will help you control him without having to wrestle with him.
If you don't have our book, "Barrel Racing, Training The Wright Way" then
you should purchase a copy as it has several exercises that will help you
gain control in the turn and correct the problem of dropping on the front
end and pushing down into your hand.
Martha Wright