The riding horse class originated in South Africa. It is a wonderful class for the everyday horseman who cannot necessarily afford to own a showhorse, or whose horse does not fall into any particular show category.
Unlike valuable show animals, which tend to be cosseted, a good riding horse must be the sort you can ride anywhere and really enjoy. And this fact should always be borne in mind by the riding horse judge.
He/she should design their test to encompass the practical hazards that might be encountered on a Sunday hack.
Let's say you and a large group of friends decide to ride some distance to another farm to enjoy morning tea or a braai. Here are some of the things that you might come across on the way.
You should expect your good riding horse to behave in exemplary fashion and be a credit to your training, as well as give you a safe and comfortable ride.
It must walk well, without jogging and niggling - however badly the other horses behave and at the trot it must carry itself without hurrying or being sloppy.
This story is from the July 26, 2024 edition of Farmer's Weekly.
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This story is from the July 26, 2024 edition of Farmer's Weekly.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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