Q: Is it worth buying an older horse? Answered by Farryn Day A: Over the years, I have heard many people discounting the value of an older horse for themselves or their children. Older horses are labelled as ‘difficult keepers’, ‘lazy’, or ‘over-the-hill’ and the question is often asked “Isn’t it better for my son/daughter to learn…
Q: What is a grackle noseband? A: The grackle noseband is also known as the figure-of-eight noseband. The grackle is designed with a main pressure point at the crossover point on the top of the horse's nose. The straps pass through a slotted leather circle, which often has a sheepskin backing to prevent discomfort or rubbing.…
Eventing boots are specifically designed for the cross-country phase of eventing. They are designed around the model of the brushing boot, but usually feature better tendon protection as well. Modern eventing boots are lighter than ever, so that they don’t hinder the horse’s speed in any way. They are also waterproof, so that the boots…
Text: Jan Tucker A neatly plaited horse looks professional when he enters the ring, and in many disciplines plaiting is compulsory. But is it always necessary and what constitutes the perfect plait? Certain styles, for example the use of white tape for dressage, go in and out of fashion, but for showing classes in particular, very…
By Georgina Roberts FEI definition: eventing “A formidable combination of cross-country, jumping and dressage. Eventing is often known as the triathlon of the equestrian world. A truly complete sport that tests both the horse and rider in all aspects of horsemanship, and one of the three Olympic disciplines.” Unofficial definition: eventing “Eventing is for people who realise one discipline…
The more your horse competes across the country the more he will understand what is expected of him [dropcap]F[/dropcap]or some, riding across the country is the real essence of eventing. All those hours spent getting the horses balanced, on the aids and working in harmony with the rider come together on the cross country course. “It’s…
Consider walking on tar road to help strengthen you horse's legs Soundness is a key factor in equine athletes, and the trainer’s ability to keep the horse in peak condition while working at the required level depends on a complex interaction between the horse and the environment. The surfaces a horse trains and competes on play…
Is your horse ready to take the plunge? [dropcap]H[/dropcap]ave you ever wondered why some horses fear water? Eventers and some showjumpers can have a hard time convincing their horses to go through water complexes or over water jumps. A young horse naturally fears puddles, because the position of his eyes on the sides of his head…
Victoria Scott and Song du Magay flying high at Bramham In the October issue of HQ, we introduced readers to Victoria Scott, a South African rider who moved to France to immerse herself in the eventing scene. This month Vicky shares more of her experiences to give a taste of the world of international equestrianism. Going to…
Kimberly on her ride, Rodeo Spin Born in Zimbabwe, Kimberly now resides with her family in Cape Town and attends the Silvermine Academy. Kimberly won the Polo International Horse Trials Pony Riders’ class last year on her pony, Legacy. Kimberly has moved up to the Junior Class this year and will be competing in a very…

