Competitive Trail Riding

by

Philip Loughran

Competitive trail riding is a style of horse riding in which riders follow a predetermined path or trail. The length on the trial can vary from 20 miles to over 100 miles, with the event lasting from one to three days.

Competitive trail riding is designed to demonstrate the fitness and ability of the horse, as well as the kinship between horse and rider. Coming first in competitive trail riding is not about arriving at the finish line ahead of everyone else. There are different types of competitive trail riding; pace races and judged. In a pace race the horse and rider may not come in over or under a certain time, demonstrating the rider\’s control and mastery of the horse. In judged trail riding generally the horse and rider showing the highest level of fitness and control will usually place first, however there is often recognition for good horsemanship too. Other factors which may be considered are veterinarian checks to assess the health and condition of the horse, the manners and etiquette of the rider, and other elements. The careful training of a horse for competitive trail riding should start at least 8 weeks before the event. Most horses are suitable for the event as long as they can deal with the stress and are not of the heavy classes. The horse should be trained to walk on all terrains including through water and up hill, as there will be a mix of surfaces on the trail itself. Training may include short workouts to raise the heart rate of the horse, or slower, long ride to build up the heart rate more slowly. The rider must also condition themselves. Being fit enough physically to handle the chosen trial ride goes without saying, but what else is there to consider? If participating in a pace race the rider must be acutely aware of timing and pace. In any trail ride they will need to estimate how much food and water to bring for both themselves and the competing horse. Other supplies to be considered are paperwork relating to the horse (such as veterinary checks and registration papers), first aid kit, camping equipment (if necessary), maps, hoof pick, and other equestrian equipment. Some competitive trail rides include obstacles and tasks set and monitored by judges along the route. This may include securing a ribbon around a tree branch, walking the horse back, emergency stops, and many more. If you are unsure of following the judges instruction due to the horse or rider not being ready you may pass, though points will be lost. Commonly checked horsemanship factors include veterinary checks for trail or tack lesions, fatigue, lameness, and dehydration. The rider may also be judged on their handling of the horse, the presentation of horse and rider, and how they manage the trail. The health of the horse and rider is of the utmost importance and the horse\’s condition will be checked thoroughly. Commonly checked are levels of hydration, gum colour, movement, pulse, and checks on the gut. Should any horse be deemed in poor condition or show signs of distress will be immediately removed and veterinarian attention sought. It may be advisable to volunteer at a competitive trail ride if you think you may wish to participate. This will give a better understanding of how the ride operates and what is expected.

Philip Loughran writes on a number of subjects from travel to law, automotive to education. For

horse riding apparel

he recommends

Cavaletti Clothing

.

Article Source:

ArticleRich.com