| This is a terrific picture of a beginner rider with very good basics. Her teacher should be commended. Although the size of the fence indicates that this girl is riding in the short-stirrup division, her leg position would be correct in any level of competition. Her stirrup leather is just the right length, so that her heel is down. Her stirrup iron is correctly placed on the ball of her foot, and her toe is turned out at about forty-five degrees. Her base of support is excellent; she's out of the saddle just enough. It's clear that she hasn't jumped ahead of her horse; instead, she's waited for his thrust to throw her forward and out of the saddle Her back, like that of the previous rider, is flat, relaxed, and natural. Her eyes are focused ahead. She's demonstrating an elementary but very correct release. She's moved her hands halfway up her horse's neck so that the rein is floating, and she's grabbed the mane. There's no way this rider could hit her horse in the mouth, but she's still supporting her upper body. Her horse is lovely. He's a little long and tall for a beginning rider, but his eye is kind, and he appears so soft and quiet over this small fence that I suspect he's a wonderful babysitter. The pair's turnout is first rate. The girl's boots shine, and her clothes are neat; her horse's coat glistens, and his clean tack and saddle pad fit well. © Practical Horsemen 1990 |
