Local Show Help?!

[thatblackfriesian]

Taking my mare to a local show in about a month. She's currently ridden in a Dutch gag (middle Ring) and a running martingale. I've been told that having her in this combination will get us marked down in the show ring?? Is this true? I could possibly ride her without the martingale as it's only really a necessity when jumping but her bit is definitely needed because when she's excited she's so strong!!

We're doing Ridden Ring Experience, Best Combination, Ridden Veteran and Ridden Arab if that makes a difference.

 

[be positive]

It will not be looked on favourably in any of the classes you list, in a WH it would be ok but for the rest it will be out of place and incorrect, you have a month to work on her schooling to get her into a snaffle, double or pelham, if you need something extra, and out of the DG and martingale, have a few lessons from someone who has showing experience and they may bring a few bits for you to try.

 

[conniegirl]

Yes it likely will.
In showing classes only snaffles, Pelhams and doubles are acceptable.

Have you tried a Wilkie snaffle? It has a very similar action to Dutch gag.

That said As a judge I'd rather see a horse going sweetly in a Dutch gag than badly in a Pelham.