Posted 2016-05-19 7:33 AM Subject: How would you prep your horse?
Expert
Posts: 1631 Location: Somewhere around here
Lets say your able to ride at a good jackpot but the arena is sandy and not deep, kind of shifty. How would you prepare your horse for this kind of ground if you aren't able to ride in the arena beforehand and you don't have that kind of footing at your home?
Posted 2016-05-19 8:51 AM Subject: RE: How would you prep your horse?
Elite Veteran
Posts: 889
I think you have to trust your horse and your gut. If you don't think your horse will handle the ground well, don't send him hard from the back 40; just cruise in and see how he does. Different pens, different ground, different atmosphere it's all trial and error.
Posted 2016-05-19 10:07 AM Subject: RE: How would you prep your horse?
If it's a jackpot and they allow exhibitions then do one. Even if it's working slow, they can still get a feel of the ground.
If they don't then look for a spot on the outside or on the backside of the arena where the alley or gate is. You may find a small area that is somewhat like the consistency of the arena where you can jog or even lope a small circle.
Posted 2016-05-19 5:00 PM Subject: RE: How would you prep your horse?
Veteran
Posts: 285
One thing I've learned from my horse is if we can't get in and atleast walk in the arena she doesn't run as hard. If its some place she's ran at a bunch I don't have to worry. But a new place she has to feel the ground or else we're a couple D's slower.
How would you prep your horse?
