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"..always bombs on when jumping.."

Lucy wrote to us with the following problem

I ride a 16.2 thoroughbred cross mare who is 12yrs old. She is not mine but I ride her regularly on the flat and compete in unaffiliated dressage at prelim level. My problem is that I have recently started to jump her, and although she is usually calm for me on the flat, she always bombs on with me when jumping. My instructor and another person jump her and they do not have this problem - she just behaves this way with me!! She is schooled in a loose ring french link and we have started to jump her in a three ring with the reins one ring down from the normal snaffle. My instructor says I have an 'electric bum', but this can't be the only reason - please help!! I am quite an experienced rider and have no problems jumping other horses. Lucy

Ken Perrin from the Sale or Return BitBank replies

Hi Lucy, Thanks for you enquiry. There is nothing I can do about electric bums -i've got one! Seriously though. I always have my doubts about Dutch gags. Most of the problems I receive at the BIT BANK are in connection with these bits.

It usually goes something like this. The horse is fairly strong, so the rider, her friend or instructor puts a dutch gag in the horse. Almost 100% of the time only 1 set of reins are used, which is incorrect, as these gags should always be used with 2 sets - one on the snaffle ring, the other on the gag ring. Once bitted with only one set, the bit is so severe, usually horses fight it - thus tanking into jumps.

The horse may also be opening it's mouth and raising it's head in pain and evasion. Then a flash noseband and / or a martingale is put on, which makes matters worse. THE DOWNWARD SPIRAL HAS BEGUN AS STRONG BITS MAKE STRONG HORSES. If she is very excitable with you, try lots of trotting poles and gridwork with poles before and after and in between the jumps to make her look down and think.

You may also combine your flatwork with a BIT of jumping. Ie, 15 mins on the flat, then pop her through a small grid - NEVER JUST ONE UPRIGHT, then more controlled flatwork to get her back to you. As far as a bit is concerned, a couple to try are a Jointed, or a French link Fulmer with Keepers, or a full cheek with copper rollers.

This last bit cannot be used in Dressage, but is a good jumping bit. Another option is a swivel ring bit. It is like a gag, but not severe and can just back them off a bit. I trust this is OK and if you require further info Lucy, please contact me on (01933) 277515. I will be pleased to help.

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