Any tips for riding a test in a long arena?

[Little_Mare]

I've always avoided tests in long arenas but think now I should pull myself together as I'm limited enough by movements without being scared off by a 60X20!

Does the centre line/long side seem to go on forever? Is it more difficult to place some movements?

If I had access to one I'd be able to find this stuff out myself but unfortunately I don't...

 

[DressageChick]

You dont often go all the way down the long side in a test (usually turn off to do a movement) I'm sure when you have done one you'll like and and love the space it gives you. I personally hate small arenas (but have a 17.1hh so long arenas are easier), we have a long arena at the yard- so are spoilt.

I don't think it is anymore difficult to place things, however I recently judged a novice long arena test where it had a 20m circle at A and one lady rode round the circle and touched X (as you would in a short arena)- but this meant she rode a 30m egg!, so just bear that in mind.

 

[johnsongreyhorse]

I did this diagram to help me learn my 1st test on a 20x60

hope it helps

 

[not_with_it]

It really isnt that scary! Like someone has said you dont usually go all the way down the long side without doing something. So long as you know where all the extra letters are you should be fine.

Where is your next comp? Are you going to Aldham Mill on the 18th? Im taking Gin to try an elementary, it should be fun

 

[kick_On]

i like you had a block on long arena but now i prefer them... as i feel i have more time to set up next movement. The key thing i get told is 'straightness', this will show up more, but also remember at top end your further aways from judges, so you can riding a bit more tactical

 

[Little_Mare]

Thanks everyone - I'll give it a go!

Nat - I'm going to Aldham Mill on the 18th too, doing the prelim and N21 again, hopefully it'll be a bit less soggy this time! Also doing Manor Grange this sat.

 

[not_with_it]

Im doing N21 too so I will make sure I come over and say hi

 

[Little_Mare]

Yes, do or I will if I see you first!

 

[not_with_it]

I will be the one in the warm up giving everyone evil glares when they come too close to my horse!

 

[Little_Mare]

Oh dear, hope I'm not warming up at the same time as you then!

 

[wench]

just to hijack the post - what is Aldham Mill like - I am going to do the prelim on 18th, never been before!