Strong Pony Syndrome

[bailey09]

We have a fabulous pony in every way possible that will jump anything put in front of him but is too proving strong for my petit daughter (not too small for pony) who is currently riding him in a Wilkie Snaffle. I am worried that if I change the bit to a more severe one he may loose interest in his jumping. Suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Fionafaye]

I have a pony that is the same. She loves jumping so much that she goes a bit mental. I couldn't hold her back in a snaffle so I use a kimblewick instead. It hasn't changed her love of jumping, just made her a bit more controllable.

 

[HayleyandBob]

Ditto the above
X

 

[Boxers]

http://www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk/P/KK_Ultra_Universal_18mm-(409).aspx

Daughter's pony was in a Cheltenham Gag for jumping but her instructor changed him to the Sprenger Universal and he is fab in it. Although we have one which is 16mm not 18mm as in the link.

Also, I didn't pay that price - I found a 2nd hand on on ebay and won it for £40 !

 

[bailey09]

Thank you for your advice, I have one used a Kimblewick but didn't give the effect, seems to set jaw. I was thinking of a Show Pelham with sweet metal and lozenge?? don't know if this will work either but sounds less harsh than some Pelhams.

 

[lauraandjack]

My cob is exactly the same - when I got him he was so keen about jumping that he wanted to take every jump at 100mph.

I have been jumping him in a pelham with roundings and more lately in a double bridle (as I want to do workers and he won't go nicely on the flat in a pelham) and between the stronger bit and lots of schooling he is much better now and has realised that jumping can be done at a controlled speed.

In my opinion it is much better to have a lighter contact on a stronger bit than be having a tug of war in a snaffle. Remember it is not the bit that is harsh but the hands that hold the reins!

Gridwork is also a big help as it makes them slow down and think.

 

[MrsMozart]

I don't know if it's the same as a show pelham, but Little Lad goes well in a Global. It's a Pelham complete with curb chain, but only one rein ring.