Jockeys.

[metalmare]

How do they go about learning to gallop and jump with six inches of stirrup leather??

Do they

a) keep taking their leathers up a hole at a time, gradually over months / years?
b) take their leathers right up and get comfy in walk, then trot, then canter, then gallop?
c) just go for it and fall off lots?

Just wondering.

 

[icklechlo]

well i would say b, but they get taught, i went to the british racing school and learned to ride short, its not that hard, its just a different position, hand position too, and balance.

 

[metalmare]

Must take some confidence. If I suspect I might come off I like a very deep seat! I'm not even keen on XC length. But then I've not practised it much.

 

[The Original Kao]

i was never a jockey but i used to ride race horses. i just gradually shortened my stirrups over time to help me adjust. now i'm going the other way, and trying to lengthen my leg again, old habits die hard lol

 

[sarah23]

I know what you mean i worked with racehorses for 10yrs and if i go for a canter now i have to but my jerks up or i can't hold any thing

 

[GTs]

Most of them do not know how to ride before they reach the track - they know no difference.