Posted by Sandy Link: http://geocities.com/sndyhrsjdg/judge.html
on 10/16/2006, 5:53 pm, in reply to "Equitation"
205.188.116.67
Dear Katherine,
Katie has been such an asset to this board. I am so grateful to her for sharing her wisdon when I am too busy to respond as quickly as I'd like. This is the first time I disagree with her advice. I do not think smiling has a place in the show arena. I would much prefer a look of concentration and confidence upon entering the ring. Watch the equitation classes at the finals, such as those at national horse shows or Devon. You will not see riders smiling. Some things you might try to impress the judge in an over fences class might include variations in your opening circle such as entering at a sitting trot, then demonstrating a transition to the walk for a few steps before stepping into the canter. Your trainer can help you find other good ways to favorably attract attention, but the best thing you can do is to concentrate on the next jump enabling you to find good distances to the obstacles on course while riding with good form, eyes up, heels down with a straight line from the back of your helmet through your back. Please peruse the pages of this web site for photos demonstrating good form as well as exercises designed to improve your effectiveness on course.
Good luck.
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