Racehorse to Riding Horse is one of my favourite classes to judge. I find it so fantastic to see horses finding and enjoying a new job. Also, as a ride judge, I generally find the horses are forward going and have a fantastic gallop!
What The Judge Looks For- First Impressions.
What I look for in a Racehorse to Riding Horse is the same thing I look for in all horses that come in the ring; presence, manners and an enjoyable ride. This said, I would always be more forgiving about any blemishes or injuries than in a Regular Riding horse class. These horses have had a whole other career and the odd lump, bump or battle scar isn’t the end of the world in my eyes.
When it comes to ride; first and foremost the horse must stand to be mounted. Most judges will be getting a leg from steward so it is important for the horse to be familiar with this. The horse should walk away from the ride without hanging or a napping in anyway. I love it when a horse is comfortable on both reins, I find it not so enjoyable when they are “one sided”.
Personally one of the most enjoyable parts about this class is that the horses generally take you forward. When a horse is responsive to the aids, they are so much nicer to ride. I’m not too concerned if they don’t ride on the bridle all the time. I like a horse to ride on a light contact and if possible, ride on the snaffle rein of a double bridle.
Obviously, the gallop is the high point for me. I like it to feel powerful, stay on a light contact and that there is still a little left in the tank. How the horse comes back and halts afterwards is just as important. I don’t want an abrupt stop but would usually aim to have them back to halt before they have passed the line-up.
The Right Choice of Tack!
When is comes to tack, yes the double bridle is more correct but, choose the bridle that your horse is most comfortable in. I can’t tell you how many times I hear “oh it’s his/her first day in a double” or “he/she goes much better in rubber bit”.
Make sure to practice at home in your show bridle, even the bling browband! You don’t want any drama when they see it. Make sure you have even stirrup leathers and lots of holes in them for a small or large judge.
Looking for More Inspiration? Check Out Our Race Horse to Riding Horse Special, where 4 Successful Racehorses, went on to Great Success in New Careers>>
Do Your Homework!
Manners can win or lose a class so do your homework. If your horse finds it difficult to stand while mounting, practice. If your horse isn’t used to different riders, get someone calm and quiet to ride them a couple of times. If your horse finds the go round (the bit where you all walk trot canter and gallop together) stressful go ride in some group lessons or get friends over to ride while you ride.
Finally, enjoy your horse!
Most people I meet in the ring have taken on the challenge of a Racehorse to Riding Horse because they love the horse. So enjoy your horse, the ring and take the opportunity to show off all your hard work.
This Article first appeared in the June 2019 Issue of Irish Sport Horse Magazine. Written by Mary-Ann Casey Irish Shows Association Judge, Equestrian Coach & Equestrian Tutor at KWETB.