BUCKHARO (1999-2024)So many firsts and so a few heartbreaking lastsThere is so much I can say thru tears todayBuckyPosted by Beth Leggett Sokohl onTuesday, July 9, 2024We spend a lot of our time oohing and ahhing over the big guns who win World Championships and Olympics and 5*s. But today, were honoring a horse from the heart of our sport, a schoolmaster and confidence-builder, a teacher, experience-giver and friend to many, Buckharo, who has passed away peacefully at home, aged 25. Bucky was the kind of eventer who never said no, competing at 4* with Australian rider Kate Chadderton before taking up his ultimate role teaching so many how to run and jump, and have fun, and not be scared. Fittingly, his last student was Kates daughter, Mia. We salute you Bucky, a true eventing great.Bucky adorned with the colors of his many students, partners and friends.U.S. Weekend PreviewGenesee Valley Hunt H.T. (Geneseo, NY) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Scoring]One & Done Horse Trials (Lexington, KY) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]The Maryland Horse Trials at Loch Moy Farm (Adamstown, MD) [Website] [Entries] [Volunteer]Thursday News and ReadingEventings own Tik Maynard earned his hat and belt buckle when he won the Road to the Horse World Championship in March and its been confirmed that hell be back in 2025 to defend his title. If you missed out on watching this fascinating competition, youll find the videos here.Registration for British Equestrians Podium Potential Pathway 2025-27 is open. Click here to find out more.World Horse Welfare has launched a new video series aimed at equine professionals and horse owners. Horses Explained will cover all aspects of horse welfare with information and advice from professionals in each field, and new videos will be released every Friday for the next two months. Find out more here and tune in here.Hay or haylage haylage or hay choices, choices. There are seemingly no simple decisions when it comes to horse care. Were always weighing things up and out and working out whats best. The debate between hay and haylage is a common one, and of course, theres no simple answer heres a handy list of pros and cons to bring a bit of balance to the discourse.Queen of Eventing Lucinda Green is a huge advocate of conditioning horses on different surfaces and terrain. And who wouldnt listen to Lucinda? Heres the science behind the benefits of getting out of the arena and changing things up.Video BreakBehold Queen Ingrid being her legendary self in the Aachen warm-up: View this post on InstagramA post shared by Thorsten & Allison Zarembowicz (@zarembowiczsporthorses)

A rescued Shetland has begun a new life with international dressage rider and Love Island star Gemma Owen. Bert, a one-year-old pony, was rehomed from World Horse Welfares Lancashire-based rehabilitation centre, Penny Farm, after he was rescued along with 17 other Shetlands. His breeder recently received a custodial sentence and a lifetime ban from keeping all animals as a result of their neglect.Gemma became a Patron of World Horse Welfare last year after visiting Penny Farm, one of four rescue and rehoming centres run by the charity. During her visit she fell in love with Bert and offered to give him a loving home when he was ready to leave the farm.When I first met Bert, I knew he was special, she said. His cheeky personality and spirit despite his early hardships moved me deeply. I am thrilled to welcome him into our home and to share his journey with my followers.Bert was only a few months old when he was rescued by World Horse Welfare, along with his dam, Lacey, and a large group of other Shetlands, in one of the worst cases Field Officer Sarah Tucker had seen. Sadly, eight of the ponies needed to be put down due to severe health complications, but Bert was one of the survivors.Berts breeder is currently serving a custodial sentence, having been jailed in May, and being given a lifetime ban on keeping all animals. This follows an animal welfare operation involving World Horse Welfare and the RSPCA, where the two charities responded to a call from a concerned member of the public and found 19 Shetland ponies in varying states of neglect.The owner had a veneer of respectability within the showing world, with two of her ponies well-looked-after and in show condition, but she allowed the others to suffer in such a dreadful way, despite having received a previous caution for the same offences.When they were found, most of the ponies were overweight, many had overgrown hooves, and a number showed signs of extreme laminitis. The severity of neglect resulted in six of the ponies needing to be put down on-site due to the pain and suffering caused by chronic laminitis, and two more were later euthanised due to ongoing health issues.One of the best parts of my job is seeing ponies like Bert thriving after rescue and knowing that they will be rehomed into loving, safe homes for the rest of their lives, said Sarah Tucker, World Horse Welfares Field Officer. I was delighted when I heard that he is going to Gemma and I look forward to finding out how they get on. Bert will certainly keep them entertained and he couldnt ask for a better home.Further readingBirth of first foal from smuggled horses rescued by World Horse WelfareFancy a tipple? New Unbridled Gin supports World Horse WelfareDemonstrating harmony is key to boosting perception of horse sport, leading figures sayThe post Dressage rider and Love Island star Gemma Owen rescues Shetland appeared first on Your Horse.

SectionKey PointsUnderstanding the Straight Cut SaddleCharacterized by minimalistic design and straight flapsProvides close contact feel essential in showing disciplinesKey Features of Straight Cut SaddlesMinimalistic Design: Emphasizes horse's conformationClose Contact: Facilitates better communication and controlComfort: Padded seats and flaps reduce pressure pointsBenefits of Straight Cut SaddlesEnhanced Horse Conformation Display: Highlights horse's natural lines and musculatureImproved Rider Position: Encourages upright and balanced position, enhances stability and controlBetter Communication: Allows for more precise communication between rider and horseComparing Straight Cut Saddles with Other TypesJumping Saddle: Forward flaps, padded knee rolls, shallow seat (Best for Jumping, Eventing)General-Purpose Saddle: Versatile design, moderate flap angle, comfortable seat (Best for All-around riding, Beginners)Western Saddle: Deep seat, horn, heavy-duty construction (Best for Ranch work, Long rides, Western events)Choosing the Right Showing SaddleSaddle Fit: Ensure it fits both horse and rider wellMaterial: Opt for high-quality materialsDesign: Choose a design that complements the horse's conformation and the rider's positionExpert Opinions on Showing SaddlesWell-fitted straight cut saddle enhances performance and comfortAids in better communication and controlCommon Misconceptions About Showing SaddlesMyth: They are uncomfortable for the riderReality: Properly fitted saddles can be comfortable and supportiveMyth: Suitable only for experienced ridersReality: Beneficial for riders of all levelsWhy Are Showing Saddles Straight Cut?When it comes to equestrian sports, the type of saddle used can significantly impact both the rider's performance and the horse's comfort. Among the various saddle designs, the straight cut saddle, often used in showing disciplines, stands out for its unique features and benefits. This blog explores the reasons behind the straight cut design of showing saddles and how it enhances the rider's and horse's experience.Understanding the Straight Cut SaddleA straight cut saddle, also known as a show saddle, is characterized by its minimalistic design and straight flaps. Unlike other saddles that may have forward or curved flaps to accommodate different riding styles, the straight cut saddle is designed to provide a close contact feel, which is essential in showing disciplines.Key Features of Straight Cut SaddlesMinimalistic Design: Straight cut saddles have a simple, clean design that emphasizes the horse's conformation. This is crucial in showing disciplines where the horse's appearance and movement are judged.Close Contact: The straight flaps allow for closer contact between the rider's leg and the horse, facilitating better communication and control.Comfort: These saddles are designed to be comfortable for both the horse and rider, often featuring padded seats and flaps to reduce pressure points.Benefits of Straight Cut SaddlesEnhanced Horse Conformation Display: One of the primary reasons for the straight cut design is to showcase the horse's conformation. In showing disciplines, judges assess the horse's physical attributes and movement. A straight cut saddle provides a sleek, unobtrusive look that highlights the horse's natural lines and musculature, making it easier for judges to evaluate the horse's form.Improved Rider Position: Straight cut saddles encourage a more upright and balanced riding position. This is particularly important in disciplines like dressage, where precision and subtlety in the rider's cues are paramount. The straight flaps allow the rider's leg to hang naturally, promoting a longer, more relaxed leg position that enhances stability and control.Better Communication: The close contact provided by a straight cut saddle allows for more precise communication between the rider and the horse. This is crucial in showing disciplines where subtle cues and aids are necessary to perform intricate movements. The straight flaps ensure that the rider's leg remains in constant contact with the horse's sides, facilitating better responsiveness.Comparing Straight Cut Saddles with Other TypesHere is a comparison between straight cut saddles and other types of saddles:Saddle TypeFeaturesBest Suited ForStraight Cut SaddleMinimalistic design, straight flaps, close contactShowing disciplines, dressageJumping SaddleForward flaps, padded knee rolls, shallow seatJumping, eventingGeneral-Purpose SaddleVersatile design, moderate flap angle, comfortable seatAll-around riding, beginnersWestern SaddleDeep seat, horn, heavy-duty constructionRanch work, long rides, Western eventsChoosing the Right Showing SaddleWhen choosing a showing saddle, consider the following factors:Saddle Fit: Ensure the saddle fits both the horse and rider well to avoid discomfort and potential injury.Material: Opt for high-quality materials that provide durability and comfort.Design: Choose a design that complements the horse's conformation and the rider's position.Expert Opinions on Showing SaddlesProfessional riders and saddle makers often emphasize the importance of a well-fitted, straight cut saddle for showing disciplines. According to a study on saddle fitting, a properly fitted saddle can significantly enhance performance and comfort for both horse and rider.Insights from professional riders highlight how straight cut saddles aid in better communication and control, which are crucial in showing disciplines.Common Misconceptions About Showing SaddlesThere are several misconceptions about showing saddles, such as the belief that they are uncomfortable for the rider. However, many experts argue that when properly fitted, these saddles can be exceptionally comfortable and supportive.Another common myth is that straight cut saddles are only suitable for experienced riders. In reality, they can be beneficial for riders of all levels, providing better stability and control, which can be particularly helpful for beginners.ConclusionThe straight cut saddle is a specialized piece of equipment designed to enhance the performance and appearance of both the horse and rider in showing disciplines. Its minimalistic design, close contact, and emphasis on rider position make it an invaluable tool for those looking to excel in the show ring. By understanding the unique benefits of straight cut saddles, riders can make informed decisions that improve their riding experience and showcase their horse's true potential.Additional ResourcesFor more information on different types of saddles and their uses, you can refer to resources from Strathorn Farm Stables, Prime Stables, and Breeches.com.Explore Our CollectionsExplore our range of Jodhpurs, Horse Riding Boots, Horse Riding Gloves, Horse Riding Socks, Horse Treats and Gifts, Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements, Stable Rugs, and Turnout Rugs.What is a straight cut saddle?A straight cut saddle is a type of saddle with minimalistic design and straight flaps, providing close contact between the rider and the horse. This design is essential for showing disciplines as it emphasizes the horse's conformation and allows for better communication and control.Can you use a GP saddle for showing?While you can use a General-Purpose (GP) saddle for showing, it may not be ideal. GP saddles are versatile and suitable for various riding activities, but they do not offer the same close contact and minimalistic design that straight cut saddles provide, which are crucial for showing disciplines.What's the difference between a show saddle and a dressage saddle?Show saddles and dressage saddles differ primarily in design and purpose. Show saddles have a straight cut with minimalistic design, focusing on showcasing the horse's conformation and providing close contact. Dressage saddles, on the other hand, have longer flaps and deeper seats to support the rider's position and facilitate precise movements required in dressage.Are show saddles comfortable?Show saddles can be comfortable when properly fitted. They are designed with padded seats and flaps to reduce pressure points, providing comfort for both the horse and rider. Proper fit is essential to ensure maximum comfort and support during showing disciplines.

Welcome to Horse Illustrateds weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the ASPCAs Right Horse program. This weeks adoptable horse is Xanthus! Check back weekly for a new featured horse so you can find your Right Horse.Photo courtesy Longmeadow Rescue RanchAdoptable Horse: Xanthus, a 17-year-old 13.2hh grade geldingOrganization: Longmeadow Rescue Ranch, Union, Mo.Get to Know Adoptable Horse XanthusXanthus caught the eyes of many when he arrived as a surrender back in 2022. This adorable, 13.2hh buckskin was full of spunk and personality from the beginning. He loved attention from humans and was very intelligent, two qualities that still hold true today. It didnt take long for him to become a favorite amongst the staff and volunteers at Longmeadow. After some time at the ranch, he was evaluated by their trainers under saddle.Upon evaluation, Longmeadows trainers found that Xanthus had a hyper-sensitivity to poor saddle fit. They believe he has a history of ill-fitting equipment, which has now led to this sensitivity. After some training and a lot of patience from both their trainers and Xanthus alike, Longmeadow found that this pony does best in English saddles with a seat size of 15 and under. When being ridden under a saddle that fits him comfortably, Xanthus shows his true potential. He has gone on multiple trail rides at the ranch and does best with confident, balanced riders. His maximum carrying weight (including both tack and rider) is 165 pounds.Xanthus is a mighty little pony and tends to be at the top of the pecking order in his herd. With our staff members and trainers, he is extremely personable and sweet. Since he has been known to test new people and handlers, he will require an adopter confident enough to be his leader. Xanthus has a wants to please attitude and would make the perfect pony for that perfect person.Contact Longmeadow Rescue Ranch today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Xanthus!Photo courtesy Longmeadow Rescue RanchCould this weeks adoptable horse be the Right Horse you have been waiting for? Click here for more information about Xanthus, the ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week.ASPCA Right HorseASPCA Right Horse is the online adoption platform of The Right Horse Initiative, a collection of equine industry and welfare professionals and advocates working together to improve the lives of horses in transition. A program of the ASPCA, their goal is to massively increase horse adoption in the United States. To find more adoptable horses and foster horses, visit www.myrighthorse.org. To learn more about The Right Horse, a program of the ASPCA, visit www.aspcarighthorse.org.The post ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Xanthus appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

The FEI, in consultation with the Fédération Française d'Équitation (FFE), has announced the cancellation of the CDI Deauville event, which was scheduled to take place from 11 to 14 July. This decision was made on the evening of Tuesday, 9 July due to the Organising Committee’s failure to secure the Veterinary Service for the Event as required by the FEI...

AspectKey PointsImportance of Leg PositionEnhances communication with the horse, improves balance and stability, and enhances overall riding experience.AlignmentEar, shoulder, hip, and heel should form a straight line when viewed from the side.Thigh PositionThighs should lie flat against the saddle, with knees and toes pointing straight ahead.Lower LegLower leg should be in contact with the horse's side, with the toe at the girth and stirrup leathers vertical.Heel PositionHeel should be the lowest point, slightly lower than the toe.Stirrup LengthAdjust stirrups so that the ankle is in line with the hip when legs hang freely.Common MistakesLeg too far forward, gripping with knees or calves, and turned-out toes.ExercisesStirrupless riding, Swiss ball exercises, mirror work, and using an Equicise simulator.Impact on Rider and HorseImproves communication, reduces risk of injury, enhances performance, and contributes to better balance.Product RecommendationsJodhpur Collection, Horse Riding Boot Collection, and Horse Riding Gloves Collection.Additional TipsRegular check-ins with an instructor, using tools like mirrors or video analysis, and patience and dedication.The Correct Leg Position When Riding a Horse: A Comprehensive GuideAchieving the correct leg position is crucial for effective horseback riding. It not only enhances your communication with the horse but also improves your balance, stability, and overall riding experience. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the key elements of proper leg positioning and provide expert insights to help you refine your riding technique.The Importance of Correct Leg PositionA proper leg position is fundamental to successful horseback riding. It affects your balance, your horse's movement, and your ability to give clear cues. Research has shown that riders with better control of their pelvis movements have increased postural stability and improved horse-rider synchronicity.Key Elements of Correct Leg Position1. Alignment: Your ear, shoulder, hip, and heel should form a straight line when viewed from the side.2. Thigh Position: Your thighs should lie flat against the saddle, with knees and toes pointing straight ahead.3. Lower Leg: Your lower leg should be in contact with the horse's side, with your toe at the girth and stirrup leathers vertical.4. Heel Position: Your heel should be the lowest point, slightly lower than your toe.5. Stirrup Length: Adjust your stirrups so that your ankle is in line with your hip when your legs hang freely.Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them1. Leg Too Far Forward: This puts you behind the horse's movement and increases pressure on its back. To correct this, relax your thighs and allow your heels to align with your hips.2. Gripping with Knees or Calves: This can cause tension and instability. Instead, let your legs hang naturally and use your core for stability.3. Turned-Out Toes: This often indicates gripping with the calves. Focus on keeping your toes pointing forward.Scientific Insights on Leg PositionRecent studies have highlighted the importance of pelvic control in riding. A study involving 26 amateur riders found that those who could perform pelvic tilts on a Swiss ball had better posture and synchronization with their horses while riding.Key findings:Riders with better pelvic control showed less forward lean and asymmetry.Improved pelvic control correlated with better adaptation to the horse's movements.Core muscle engagement is crucial for maintaining correct leg position.Exercises to Improve Leg Position1. Stirrupless Riding: This helps develop a deep, stable seat and correct leg position.2. Swiss Ball Exercises: Practice pelvic tilts on a Swiss ball to improve core strength and pelvic control.3. Mirror Work: Use mirrors to check your alignment and make adjustments.4. Equicise Simulator: If available, use an Equicise simulator to practice leg position with immediate feedback.The Impact of Correct Leg Position on Horse and RiderProper leg position benefits both horse and rider:1. Improved Communication: Clear, consistent leg aids enhance horse-rider communication.2. Reduced Risk of Injury: Correct positioning reduces strain on both rider and horse.3. Enhanced Performance: A study of dressage riders suggests that proper seat and leg position can improve overall riding performance.4. Better Balance: Correct leg position contributes to overall balance and stability in the saddle.Product RecommendationsFor riders looking to improve their leg position, having the right gear is essential. Check out our Jodhpur Collection for comfortable and supportive riding pants. Proper footwear is also crucial; explore our Horse Riding Boot Collection.Additional Tips1. Regular Check-ins: What feels correct may not always be accurate. Regular check-ins with a qualified instructor can help refine your position.2. Use Tools: Mirrors or video analysis can be invaluable in refining your position.3. Patience and Dedication: With patience and dedication, a correct leg position becomes second nature, allowing you to focus on the joy of riding and advancing your equestrian skills.ConclusionDeveloping the correct leg position is a fundamental aspect of horseback riding that requires consistent practice and awareness. By focusing on alignment, relaxation, and core strength, riders can significantly improve their technique and connection with their horse. Remember, it's not just about aesthetics it's about creating a harmonious partnership with your horse. With patience and dedication, you'll find that a correct leg position becomes second nature, allowing you to focus on the joy of riding and advancing your equestrian skills.For more tips and high-quality horse riding gear, visit our homepage at Just Horse Riders.What is the correct posture for horse riding?The correct posture for horse riding involves sitting tall with a straight back, shoulders back, and eyes looking forward. Your ear, shoulder, hip, and heel should align vertically. Keep your thighs relaxed and in contact with the saddle, and your lower legs gently against the horse's sides without gripping tightly.When turning a horse which leg do you use?When turning a horse, you use your inside leg (the leg on the side you are turning towards) to apply pressure at the girth. This encourages the horse to bend around your leg. Your outside leg (the leg opposite to the direction of the turn) should move slightly behind the girth to support and guide the horse through the turn.What are the proper leg cues for horses?Proper leg cues for horses involve using your legs to communicate specific commands. For example, applying pressure with both legs at the girth can signal the horse to move forward. Applying pressure with one leg can ask the horse to move sideways or turn. The key is to use clear, consistent pressure and release immediately once the horse responds correctly.How to keep your legs still when riding a horse?To keep your legs still when riding a horse, focus on maintaining a balanced and secure seat. Engage your core muscles to stabilize your upper body and allow your legs to hang naturally. Avoid gripping with your knees or calves, as this can cause tension and movement. Regular practice and exercises to improve your core strength and balance will also help keep your legs steady.

Tim Gredley is on the British squad at Hickstead (c) Elli Birch/Boots and Hooves Photography  Three members of last year’s victorious British team have been selected for this year’s Agria Nations Cup of Great Britain, which takes place on Friday 26 July at Hickstead in West Sussex.  Olympic champion Ben Maher – who heads to Paris straight after the Agria Royal...

Tokyo Olympic Games 2020. © FEI/Christophe Tanière With just over two weeks to go, the tension and excitement is at boiling point ahead of the much-anticipated Paris 2024 Olympic Games which will officially get underway with the Opening Ceremony on the evening of Friday 26 July. Everything about these Games is destined to be spectacular, including the collection of iconic...

Sooner or later, most of us end up riding a horse on the road when we are out hacking. I mostly ride on country lanes, but there is a busy A road that I have to cross to get to several local bridleways. Ive always hacked out on the road, even as a child, and for the most part I enjoy it. However, since moving to Oxfordshire and being faced with HS2 lorries flying past me and my Thoroughbred (who thankfully is 100% traffic proof), Ive become more aware of road safety for horse riders than ever before.My pony was hit by a car when I was 10 she was uninjured, thankfully and my life once flashed before my eyes (it really did) when my usually bombproof Thoroughbred leapt into the middle of the main road in front of a fully loaded cattle lorry. The farmer at the wheel was driving far too fast to have any chance of stopping.My horse was spooked by the sound of the poor cattle on board struggling to stay on their feet as the lorry came hurtling around the bend towards us. His flight instinct kicked in and he leapt in the air, spinning around to turn for home, leaving us very close to the middle of the road. That farmer missed us by inches.There is a real lack of off-road riding in some parts of England. In Scotland, its Freedom to Roam act means horse riders can cross private land. In other countries like the USA and Australia, where there is just a lot more space in general, its different too. I spent five days hacking in Hungary a few years ago, and I cant recall having to ride on a single road. Bliss!Horse rider road safety: things you can doThe 2022 updates to the UKs Highway Code place horse riders above drivers in its hierarchy of road users (find out more about what that means here). However, it is still in our interest, as horse riders and therefore vulnerable road users, to do all that we can to stay safe on the road.My mission as a police officer and equestrian is to build tolerance and understanding between car drivers and horse riders, says Sgt Zoe Billings of North Yorkshire Police, who regularly gives talks on road safety and cooperation between drivers and riders. Most of us fall into both camps, but when were on the road with our much-loved hay burner, we tend to see everything from just the riders perspective.If we, as horse riders, sometimes feel aggrieved when were driving, imagine how folk with no affinity for our mobile mowers feel. It doesnt take much to give a negative opinion, so, for the sake of all our safety, thank all drivers to encourage desired behaviour.Put your hand up (if you feel secure enough), smile and give a big nod. Thank all drivers, including those who perhaps could have done more but not those who are driving dangerously, of course.BHS adviceAccording to statistics released by the British Horse Society (BHS), nearly two horses a week are killed on UK roads. They make three main recommendations to help improve the safety of riders on the road:Reduce and enforce speed limits on roads where horses are ridden regularly.Riders should wear lights when riding, in a pattern that highlights their width (two red LEDs on the riders shoulders and two on the horses flanks facing traffic coming from behind. White LEDs facing forward in a similar pattern to alert approaching traffic)Riders should wear reflective high-vis clothing, especially in the absence of lights. Bear in mind the colours of the area youre riding in (eg, dark green hedge lines) and the time of day (eg, bright sunshine) and choose contrasting colours accordingly.Road safety: things horse riders can doThank drivers who pass wide and slow if you do, theyre more likely to do the same for the next horse they see.When riding on a narrow road, get out of the way as quickly as you can. For example, trot to the nearest gateway or move on to the verge, if its safe to do so.Ride single file when youre on a narrow, winding road so theres more room for approaching vehicles to go around you.Dont react to any abuse an impatient or rude driver may throw your way.If possible, ride at quieter times of the day and avoid peak commuting times.If youre on a young or nervous horse, dont ride them on the road on your own.Give drivers every opportunity to see you by kitting out both you and your horse with lights and high-vis clothing. A solicitor warns that not wearing high vis could leave you liable in the event of an accident.Ensure you have public liability and personal accident insurance cover in place.Avoid riding in the dark/poor light.Give the road your full attention: dont use your mobile phone or listen to music, and limit chat.Desensitise your horse to traffic as far as you can. For example, if youre worried about tractors, work regularly in a field or arena with a tractor nearby.Always tell someone where youre going to ride and give an estimated time of return.Considerusing anapp like Horse Rider SOS, which monitors your movements. In the event of a fall the app will enter Alert mode and kick off a rescue process.Report every incidentOperation Snap is a marvellous opportunity for horse riders and other vulnerable road users. It is a streamlined way to report every incident or near miss you experience (this includes run ins with loose dogs and other issues, as well as traffic concerns) to the police.Invest in a hat cam (and make sure you wear it for every hack) and report every single thing you incident via Operation Snap and also to the BHS.If nobody knows about incidents involving horses and riders on the road, nothing can be done to combat the problem. The BHS has assisted in mounted police patrols of roads that are particular hot spots for horse riding incidents, and these were only made possible as a result of data obtained from incidents reported by riders like us.I believe that everyone who rides horses has a duty to wear a camera out hacking and report every incident we experience to the police and the BHS.Spread the message of pass wide and slow to everyone you know. Share social media posts about horses and riders being injured and killed on the road on so that your non-horsey friends see it.Make them aware of the consequences their actions could have. Ultimately, there is a long way to go to make roads safer for horse riding. We need to stand together to try and make it happen.The drivers perspectiveIf you scroll through the comments on social media posts about horses being ridden on the road, it wont be long before you come across a drivers opinion and the resulting debate is usually heated. Education is key, but what about those drivers who wont listen?A study by Chapman and Musselwhite in 2011 examined the attitudes and reported behaviour of drivers and riders through focus groups. Topics discussed included risk perception, emotion, attitudes to sharing the road and empathy.As well as highlighting the need to address drivers lack of knowledge and skills when passing horse riders, the study found that a riders clothing and use of safety equipment influenced drivers behaviour too. Drivers acknowledged that a judgement is made regarding how much control a rider has over their horse, but this is often over-estimated. See the full study here.More recently, a focus group-based study (Scofield, Savin & Randle, 2016) found there was no significant difference between response times for a fluorescent tabard and a black/white tabard. However, there was a big difference in response times for both tabards compared to a dark colour. It concluded that a riders choice of clothing is important.When I surveyed Your Horses #Hack1000Miles challengers in 2019 and asked their thoughts on horse rider road safety, nearly 25% said they had been involved in an accident while riding on the road.Take the BHS Ride Safe AwardMore than 4,000 horse riders take the BHS Ride Safe Award each year and while its not essential, it is sensible. In the meantime, test your knowledge about horse rider road safety with the following questions from the BHS. Answers at the bottom of the page.Question 1On which side of the road should you ride?a) On the same side as the trafficb) On the opposite side, so that traffic comes towards youc) It doesnt matterQuestion 2How should you tell drivers you are turning off a road?a) Before turning, look behind to make sure its safe and then give a clear arm signalb) Just make the turnc) Ride into the middle of the road, forcing drivers to stopQuestion 3Up to how many horses can be ridden side by side on the road?a) One single fileb) Two abreastc) It depends on each horses experienceQuestion 4How many horses does the BHS recommend limiting group numbers to when riding on the road?a) 5b) 8c) 12Question 5When approaching a stationary vehicle, what do you need to consider when passing it?a) Leave enough room in case the door suddenly opensb) Look behind in good time to ensure its safe for you to move out into the road and passc) Be mindful of pedestrians and sudden noises from inside the card) All of the aboveQuestion 6Who should you report an unsafe or unusable gate on a bridleway to in the UK?a) Your local councilb) The policec) The BHSQuestion 7When riding across agricultural land, how should you leave a gate?a) Closedb) Openc) As you find itQuestion 8Who must wear a riding hat when on the road, as per UK law?a) Children under the age of 14b) Everyonec) No one its up to the individualQuestion 9Whats the first thing you should do if an accident happens?a) Panicb) Ride awayc) Make the situation safeQuestion 10How should you navigate a roundabout on horseback?a) Avoid them horses arent allowed on roundaboutsb) Keep left, on the outside of the roundabout, regardless of which exit youre takingc) Treat roundabouts the same way you would when driving a carHorse rider road safety: the futureTheres a lot of work to be done towards making roads safer for horses, but following the above advice and spreading the word about the updated Highway Code will help.The BHSs Dead or Dead Slow? campaign is aimed at educating drivers and there are regular Pass Wide & Slow mounted ride campaigns around the country every year which riders can participate in.Main image: copyright ShutterstockRelated contentOperation Snap: how and why more riders need to use itWhy wearing the colour red could play a part in safer hackingAlan Hiscox: educating learner drivers to pass horses safely is keyHow to report an incident to the BHSNumber of loose dogs attacking horses is on the riseQuiz answersQ1. Correct answer: a) In the UK, all road traffic should be on the left, including horsesQ2. Correct answer: a) Before turning, look behind to make sure its safe and then give a clear arm signal. When youre sure all drivers have understood, make your turn.Q3. Correct answer: b) Never ride more than two horses abreast, putting the more experienced horse on the outside. Ride in single file on narrow or busy roads, and when riding around bends.Q4. Correct answer: b) Always make sure group sizes are sensible, ideally no more than eight riders, for safety and practicality reasons.Q5. Correct answer: d) All of the above. Stay alert, think ahead and move back to the left-hand side of the road as soon as you are clear of the vehicle.Q6. Correct answer: a) Your local council. Find their contact details here.Q7. Correct answer: c) Always leave a gate how you found it.Q8. Correct answer: a) Only children under the age of 14 are required by law to wear a riding helmet that is securely fastened. Your Horse advises everyone to wear a hat when mounted. After all, you only have one head and hats are easier to replace.Q9. Correct answer: c) Make the situation safe. If you can, send someone to warn approaching traffic to slow down and try to catch any loose horses. Dial 999 on a mobile phone.Q10. Correct answer: b) Keep left. Watch out for vehicles crossing your path to leave or join the roundabout. Signal right to show you are not leaving at an exit and signal left just before exiting. If its a big roundabout with traffic lights, remember red lights apply to horse riders and so you must stop too.The post Road safety: why horse riders must work together to improve it appeared first on Your Horse.

If we use good sense in managing our youngsters, we can help protect their musculoskeletal systems over the long term with proper exercise. And that can help keep athletes healthier and prevent layups during their athletic careers.The post Conditioning Young Horses appeared first on The Horse.