Dear Ed and Martha,
The mare I am riding is 16h and 10yrs old. The first 2 years we spent on trails in the mountians and then proceeded to walk trot,lope and etc. throught barrles and poles. All is well until we run in competion, the run comes down on her and we’re out of control. So I bred her to my stud and that has calmed her down quite a bit.
Her “run” problem is still present but not as bad. I use a Jr. cowhorse bit, and don’t always run her in competon, just simply walk through to the out gate. Do not use tie downs, spurs or crops. This mare also refuses to bend but not all the time. I do use a chiropractor. Help!
Thank You ,Tom
Sounds to me like your mare needs more education at higher speeds and probably a little more bridle until she learns to listen to your hands and what you’re asking her to do. Be sure that your cues are clear and consistent when you ask her to rate at each rate point and when she doesn’t understand, go back to the previous step and be sure she is comfortable at the slower speed before going any faster.
Martha Wright
