Hanging on XC- would you be worried??

S

sfward

Well-Known Member
Joined
29 June 2007
Messages
1,214
Location
York
Visit site
As mentioned on my previous post (photo of Missie's first intro) Missie was hanging back to the lorry park on the XC, and then near the end she had a little nap when having to go away from the lorries which resulted in us getting 20 pens for circling... It was only for a few seconds but now I'm getting myself in a bit of a tizz worrying about it, do you think I should be or is it just green-ness? She has a tendency to do it every now and again at home when she sees something scary but I've always got her going again after a telling off... What would you do to help prevent her doing this in future competitions?
 
As she gets more confident and starts to enjoy the job (knowing what she is doing!) it will stop. Ots just baby insecurities, she didnt get way with it and by the sounds of things went well, so shouldnt be a prob
smile.gif
 
From a complete numpties point of view I think it would be ride her for every stride, don't relax for a moment, get her totally obedient to your legs at all times, not with a ten second delay; any non reaction from her gets a severe wake up call from you. Failing that or as well as, use the little brush type rings on your bit which might help her make up her mind it is not worth the effort.
That's probably no help at all and way off beam!
 
Ive got a baby out at the min who behaves in a similar way ( but will do it in the D/SJ or XC), he has had 5 runs this year ( would have been more but for the rain), and has got better each time. I think its a time and patience matter while they find their feet and learn their job. I wouldnt worry too much yet- a little worry and hang is completely different to full blown nappiness.
 
Thanks guys, I'm probably worrying too much as usual! I guess I will just have to be ready for her next time, she did catch me slightly by surprise...
smile.gif
 
As said, make sure your horse is going forward and listening to your aids, napping at the end may have been due to tiredness and the heat though. I am sure next time you will be fine
 
My horse spent all last year being an arse - he never felt like he was enjoying xc that I was niggling him along all the way and he would hang right. I stopped the hanging by putting a brush on and hunted him so he got the idea that going forwards was good. This season he has been lovely really looks for his fences, locks on and wants to get on with the job. Every now and again he needs a reminder to concentrate but on the whole 100% improved. I think its time and just giving them confidence.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top