Riders transitioning to the double bridle for dressage or saddle seat classes can find it intimidating at first to handle two reins and two bits and to understand the reins’ actions on both the snaffle and curb.

In this article, Frances Carbonnel, a Colorado-based dressage trainer, owner of Classical Legacy Dressage, and a United States Dressage Federation (USDF) bronze, silver and gold medalist, explains the function of the double bridle, when and how to introduce it, and tips for learning to ride with double reins.

What Is a Double Bridle?

The double bridle has two bits: a thin snaffle, called a bradoon, and a curb called a Weymouth.

“Each bit has a separate function in the horse’s mouth,” explains Carbonnel.

Using a double bridle requires a certain level of training—in horse and rider—before it’s introduced.

Where Is It Used?

You see the double bridle used in certain disciplines, like saddle seat and upper levels of dressage—usually Third Level and above.

Rules for using a double bridle can vary according to breed and discipline rule books, so consult your association to be sure you’re in compliance with approved use if you’re planning to show with one.

What Is the Function of a Double Bridle?

Let’s start by reviewing the function of the snaffle bit, which is what young horses of all disciplines are normally started in.

“The snaffle is used to aid the rider in establishing a consistent and elastic contact with the horse in the forward movement,” says Carbonnel.

It’s also used to receive and channel the horse’s impulsion when generated from the hindquarters, establish lateral flexion of the neck, and bend through the horse’s body when combined with the seat and leg aids.

The double bridle adds the curb, which is a leverage bit. When combined with the bradoon, the curb functions to raise the neck and stabilize the connection with the hand.

“The curb also helps the rider to further balance the horse on his hindquarters without sacrificing thoroughness and the suppleness of the back,” adds Carbonnel.

When Is It Time to Introduce One?

As Carbonnel explains, the curb bit multiplies the strength of the rider’s hand, so it’s essential to introduce it gradually and with tact to avoid destroying the confidence the young horse has developed in his rider’s hand.

“Adding the curb bit of the double bridle is done only when the horse has mastered the various lateral movements designed to supple his body and has begun the process of loading more weight to his hindquarters,” she says.

It’s never a substitute to force a horse into a frame or a certain headset.

Many dressage trainers only use “the double” intermittently once their horses reach the higher levels to make a specific training point, then return to the single snaffle bridle whenever possible, to avoid creating tension in the horse.

How Do You Fit a Double Bridle?

“Two bits is a lot of metal in the horse’s mouth,” says Carbonnel. Riders need to be understanding that this is a big change for the horse. Fitting the bridle and transitioning slowly to the use of the curb are keys to helping the horse accept the double bridle.

First, take time to fit the horse with bits that conform to the shape of his mouth and that aren’t too thick.

“The curb port needs to fit the horse’s palate and tongue, and the bradoon should mimic the snaffle the horse has been training in,” adds Carbonnel.

The bradoon needs to hang in the mouth so that it doesn’t interfere with the curb on the tongue.

“This can be a challenge if the horse has a small mouth,” she says. “If the bradoon is adjusted too high in the mouth to avoid contact with the curb, it puts annoying and distracting pressure on the corners of the mouth and painful pressure on the poll.”

On the other hand, if the curb is placed too low in the mouth, it risks banging on the male horse’s canine teeth. (Mares generally don’t have canine teeth.)

“The horse may then try to alleviate the pain or the pressure of the bit by pulling his tongue back, or lolling it out to the side,” she explains. “Once this habit becomes ingrained, it is nearly impossible to correct.”

The curb chain also needs to be adjusted correctly. If it’s too loose, it will flop and tickle the horse’s chin, plus interfere with the bradoon when the reins are taken up. If it’s too tight—and if the pressure of the rider’s hand is too intense—any small or inadvertent mistake on the rider’s part becomes painful for the horse. Some horses also have sensitive chins, so the chain must be covered in rubber or leather to avoid pinching.

How Do You Hold Double Reins?

There are several ways to hold two reins in each hand. Here’s a common approach.

“As you sit in the saddle, pick up your snaffle rein as if you’re riding in a regular bridle, with the snaffle rein held between your ring finger and pinky finger,” says Carbonnel.

Take some slack out of the reins, but don’t apply pressure.

“Then, reach your hands down and pick up the curb rein between your middle finger and ring finger.”

For the first few rides, leave the curb rein very loose. Ride using the snaffle bit like you normally would—but remember that the bradoon is likely thinner than your regular snaffle and might cause a quicker reaction or different sensation in your horse’s mouth.

After you’re both comfortable with two reins and two bits, pick up the reins and gently spread your hands apart so that the slack is taken out of the curb rein without pulling on the rein. You’ll continue to ride primarily on the snaffle and not use a lot of curb pressure, even when you’re both comfortable riding with two reins.

Step Up to Two Reins

“The double bridle is a tool to be used for increasing the subtlety and finesse of the horse/rider connection, not to be used for bullying the horse into an artificial ’head set,’” says Carbonnel of the transition to the double bridle.

When you’re ready to step up to the double bridle, she suggests finding an experienced trainer who can help with fitting the bridle and teaching proficient use of the reins. Then take your time and enjoy learning this new journey with your horse!

The Pelham Commonly found in the world of hunter horses, the Pelham bit, which functions as a curb and a snaffle in a single bit, uses two sets of reins on different rings of one bit. The mouthpiece can be jointed like a snaffle or have a solid mouthpiece with or without a port like a curb. While the Pelham is not legal in dressage shows, it can be used in many saddle seat classes. Since it doesn’t have two separate bits, it can be more comfortable for horses with small mouths.

This article about how to use a double bridle and double reins appeared in the November/December 2020 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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Kendra Wise, of Tipp City, Ohio, has been crowned the 2021 USEF Saddle Seat Adult Amateur Medal Final champion at the 85th Annual Lexington Junior League Charity Horse Show. In the last class of the morning session on Wednesday, July 14, eight competitors demonstrated their skill during group railwork, and then executed an intricate individual pattern designed by judges Anne Judd, of Lutz, Fla.; Paul Boone, of Concord, N.C.; and Kristen Cater, of Dunbarton, N.H.

In the 21th anniversary of the Final, Wise rode Callaway’s Silent Partner, her 2008 American Saddlebred gelding, to the gold medal. Wise returned to the show ring with “Partner” in 2020 under the guidance of trainer Shelley Fisher after a 7-year hiatus from riding and competition.

“[Callaway’s Silent Partner] was such a good boy today,” said Wise. “He was very focused and on his game. I felt like we both tried to step up for each other and be there for each other. It’s been a long road coming to get this put together for this year, which has been so much fun. He’s come so far, and I feel like I’ve come so far. It’s so fun to get to come back.”

Wise started working with Partner, an experienced show horse competing in the youth, adult, and equitation divisions, last summer after returning to riding and competing as an adult. “The last time I competed like this was maybe seven years ago, but it’s been even longer since I’ve done equitation,” said Wise. “I think my last equitation class before this year was back in 2003!”

Isabella Privitera, of Mission Hills, Kan., was named reserve champion and silver medalist in the Final aboard Walterway’s Dignitary, Carl and Mary Privitera’s 2010 American Saddlebred gelding. Privitera is coached by Julianne Rafferty. At just 19 years old, this was Privitera’s first competition year as an adult amateur. At the end of her youth career, Privitera competed in the USEF Saddle Seat Medal Final and earned a top-five placing.

Relive the excitement of the 2021 USEF Saddle Seat Adult Amateur Medal Final on demand with USEF Network.

Stay up to date with U.S. saddle seat year-round by following USA Saddle Seat on Facebook and U.S. Equestrian on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok. Use #USASaddleSeat.

Further Reading

• Saddle Seat Equitation: Form to Function
• American Saddlebred

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A visit to The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto should be on every equestrian’s bucket list. The event, which runs for two weeks every November, offers the ultimate in fair favorites with culinary delights, farm animals, shopping, and agricultural demonstrations, but at an indoor venue with equestrian competitions that attract some of the world’s top names.

“The Royal,” as it’s often called, was started in 1922 as a place to showcase the best in Canadian agriculture. Its name is the result of petitioning and receiving approval from King George V to add “Royal” to the fair’s name.

The Royal Horse Show is a cornerstone of the event with equestrian competitions for driving, draft horse hitches, saddle seat riding, indoor eventing, hunter derbies, and show jumping, including an FEI World Cup competition with a prize for the winner of $210,000.

THE ROYAL AGRICULTURAL WINTER FAIR
Exhibition Place, Toronto
Visit www.royalfair.org/horse-show for tickets and info

Bring some spending money when you visit: The Royal brings together some of the best of the world’s equestrian brands and talented artisans all in one place for a world-class shopping experience. Photo by Shelley Paulson

This article about the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair appeared in the November 2019 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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U.S. Equestrian announced Devin Sell of Georgetown, Ky, as the winner of the 2019 USEF Youth Sportsman’s Award in recognition of her 2019 contributions and achievements. The USEF Youth Sportsman’s Award identifies outstanding youth members actively involved in their respective discipline or breed organizations and acknowledges their potential as future leaders in the equine industry. The American Saddlebred Horse Association (ASHA) nominated Sell, who is involved with ASHA and her local chapter of the National Future Farmers of America (FFA) Organization.

Sell’s achievements in the competition ring are amplified by her dedication to her horses, barn family and the sport as a whole. She is active in the ASHA youth programs, including the ASHA Youth Conference, and volunteered at the Saddle Seat World Cup and Kentucky State Fair World’s Championship Horse Show. She participates in youth judging clinics and is a member of the U.S. Equestrian Lettering Program and is on track to complete the program as a varsity athlete upon high school graduation next year. Sell also organized an informational meet-and-greet at her public library to promote the American Saddlebred breed.

Sell is a member of the National Honors Society and an accomplished tennis player, and she intends to study pre-veterinary sciences and equine business management in college. Her dream is to become a large animal veterinarian, specializing in horses, and run her own lesson program for children and adults to help them learn proper riding and horse care.

“Devin is our barn’s youth group president, and she is an invaluable mentor for the younger girls,” said Nancy Brannon, Sell’s trainer. “In her role as president, she has spearheaded multiple community service events, including a coat drive for the homeless shelter and a back-to-school supply drive for the local women’s shelter.”

The reserve overall winner of the USEF Youth Sportsman’s Award is Ella Doerr of Avon, N.C., who was nominated by the United States Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA). Doerr served as the youngest chair of the USHJA Youth Committee at just 16 years old and has been an ambassador for USHJA in many different capacities. She received the USHJA Youth Leadership Award in 2016 and received the USHJA Foundation Gochman Family Grant to attend the 2017 USEF Pony Finals presented by Collecting Gaits Farm.

Doerr is committed to improving access to equestrian sport. She has been studying American Sign Language for the past four years to assist in lessons with deaf children. She also volunteers her time by helping prepare ponies to be used in therapeutic riding programs for differently abled youth.

Passionate about education, Doerr is a tutor and plans to attend college and major in public relations and communications. An avid writer, Doerr intends to continue being a freelance writer to equine magazines throughout her high school and college careers.

Nominees for the USEF Youth Sportsman’s Award

The other national nominees includes nominees from U.S. Equestrian’s other affiliate organizations.

Nina Barretts of Holland, Penn. – Arabian Horse Association (AHA)

Barretts is an active member of both U.S. Equestrian and the Arabian Horse Association and regularly competes at shows in both dressage and English pleasure. She is involved with several different academic clubs and volunteers with the Laurel Nobilis Arabians and the Appalachian Service Project.

David Botana of Portland, Maine – United States Para-Equestrian Association (USPEA)

Botana is a rising star for the U.S. Para Dressage Team and is actively pursuing a spot on the U.S. Para Dressage Team for the 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games. Botana is a passionate advocate and leader in his community for equity, social justice and public policy.

Isabelle Braden of Decatur, Ga. – United States Dressage Federation (USDF)

Braden is an accomplished dressage athlete with the United States Dressage Federation who has competed at major competitions, including the Adequan®/FEI North American Youth Championships (NAYC), and a dedicated volunteer. Braden is passionate about history and understanding the political climate and global issues, and she intends to pursue a career in law.

Korbin Eckert of Spokane, Wash. – Western Dressage Association of America (WDAA)

Eckert is a member of multiple breed and discipline organizations and was presented with the 2018 Western Dressage Association of America (WDAA) Youth Sportsmanship Award. He continues to promote equestrian sport and the WDAA through his volunteer and peer role model endeavors.

Francesca Franzosi of Hammonton, N.J. – American Vaulting Association AVA)

Franzosi has been a member of the American Vaulting Association since 2018 and is passionate about the vaulting discipline, volunteering for and participating in open houses to promote the sport. She enjoys competing with her team, the Shooting Stars.

Nora Goldfarb of Franklin, Tenn. – American Connemara Pony Society (ACPS)

Goldfarb is a member of the American Connemara Pony Society Youth Board and the United States Pony Clubs. She is co-secretary for the Middle Tennessee Eventing Association and aims to be a part of a board of directors for her local eventing or show jumping community after college.

Elizabeth Henry of Lafayette, Ind. – United States Eventing Association (USEA)

Henry, who was nominated by the United States Eventing Association, was part of the 2019 Area VIII NAYC Eventing Team and is actively involved with the Interscholastic Equestrian Association as a volunteer. Henry works at the Pletch Equestrian Center, and she is wholly dedicated to ensuring the health and comfort of her and others’ horses.

Samantha Holyfield of Concord, N.C. – American Hackney Horse Society (AHHS)

Holyfield, who was nominated by the American Hackney Horse Society, is an accomplished horsewoman, with many driving accomplishments on her resume. Her ambition is to work in the therapeutic horsemanship or occupational therapy industries, using horses as a way to help people heal from mental or physical traumas or disabilities.

Taylor Hudson of Fairview, Penn. – American Morgan Horse Association (AMHA)

Hudson has served as a Regional Delegate for the American Morgan Horse Association Youth Council since 2017 and is the organizer and manager of the Tristate Morgan Horse Show Youth Contest. She is a member of the Morgan Patriots and has completed Level Three of the AMHA Horsemastership Badge Program.

Anna Aubrey Hutchinson of Boyle, Miss. – Welsh Pony and Cob Society of America (WPCSA)

Hutchinson is a member of the Welsh Pony and Cob Society of America and currently rides for Rollingwoods Farm, where she assists in the day-to-day operations of the farm twice a week. She volunteers at Bayou Academy and is a member of her school’s National Junior Honor Society.

Gabriella Santaniello of Suffield, Conn. – International Friesian Show Horse Association (IFSHA)

Santaniello, who was nominated by the International Friesian Show Horse Association, is a member of the National Honor Society and volunteers as a coach at her school’s writing center. She has also served as president of Hearts and Hoofbeats 4-H Club for four years.

Madison Waller of Beaumont, Texas – International Andalusian and Lusitano Horse Association (IALHA)

Waller has competed at the International Andalusian and Lusitano Association National Championships for the past four years. She is a dedicated volunteer in her community, donating her time and talents to organizations like Texas Children’s Hospital, Ronald McDonald House and Helping Hands.

Learn more about the U.S. Equestrian Youth Sportsman’s Award. For additional information, please contact Natalie Norwood, Championships Program Manager, at nnorwood@usef.org or (859) 225-6951.

Stay up to date with U.S. Equestrian’s youth programs and all 29 recognized breeds and disciplines by following US Equestrian on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Further Reading

• Julia Stone Named the 2019 U.S. Equestrian Junior Equestrian of the Year

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The top saddle seat equitation riders in the U.S. faced a rigorous challenge on Saturday, November 16, as they competed for top honors in the USEF Saddle Seat Medal Final at the United Professional Horseman’s Association (UPHA)/American Royal National Championship Horse Show. Twelve of the 19 horse-and-rider combinations in the preliminary ride-offs were called back for the final round of competition by judges Kim Cowart of Statesville, N.C.; Michael Craghead of Fresno, Calif.; and Elizabeth McBride Jones of Raeford, N.C. The stakes were high as these elite riders performed rail work and a complex individual pattern for a chance at the championship title and the prestigious Adrian Van Sinderen Trophy.

Michael Arquilla of Woodridge, Ill., was crowned champion in the 2019 USEF Saddle Seat Medal Final. Trained by Sheri Brandl, the judges saw Arquilla’s depth of skill and finesse as he performed every test with grace and precision. Arquilla was presented with the Helen K. Crabtree and Adrian Van Sinderen trophies by 2018 USEF Saddle Seat Medal Final champion Haley Berget.

Seventeen-year-old Arquilla had an outstanding competition year culminating with the Medal Final win, as well as a win in the UPHA Challenge Cup Final on Thursday.

“All of this is about hard work, and I’m glad that it paid off,” said Arquilla. “I know I put in the work and sometimes [the results] weren’t what I wanted, but in the end, things have worked out great.”

Arquilla rode ^CH(EQ)Mooi Mooi, Sharon Arquilla’s 14-year-old American Saddlebred gelding, in the preliminary round but elected to ride another horse for the final round when he felt the gelding was slightly lame. “^[CH(EQ)Mooi Mooi] has the heart of a champion,” said Arquilla. “Even when he’s tired, he still tries his hardest just like any great athlete.

Arquilla began working with “Nelson” when he was just 10-years-old. Arquilla, his mother, Sharon, and his trainers saw the horse had incredible potential, but the gelding had a long way to go before he was ready for the equitation ring. “I’ve had Nelson for seven years,” he said. “He came to us as a driving horse, and he didn’t even know how to canter! I’m proud of how far he’s come.

Alayna Applegate, of Ewing, Ky., claimed the reserve champion title and the silver medal for the second consecutive year. The youngest competitor in the field of 19 rode Kalarama’s New Moon, her nine-year-old American Saddlebred gelding. “I am always working on rising to the top, but if I can stay right here, I’ll stay right here as long as I can,” said Applegate. “It is so much fun.”

“Moonpie” and Applegate are a relatively new partnership of six months. “This was only [Kalarama’s New Moon] third equitation final ever, with the other two being this year! I’m so proud of him,” said Applegate. “He went in there and totally knocked those patterns out today. He is amazing.”

Visit the USEF Network to watch the USEF Saddle Seat Medal Final on demand.

2019 USEF Saddle Seat Medal Final Top 10

Champion: Michael Arquilla (Woodridge, Ill.)
Reserve Champion: Alayna Applegate (Ewing, Ky.)
Third: Isabella Privitera (Mission Hills, Kan.)
Fourth: Finn Cooper (Denver Colo.)
Fifth: Sophie Yi (Alamo, Calif.)
Sixth: Gabriella Snyder (St. Louis, Mo.)
Seventh: Dawson Archibald (Andover, Kan.)
Eighth: Ashley Perry (Londonderry, N.H.)
Ninth: Kaylee Atkinson (Oro Valley, Ariz.)
Tenth: Ella Hampton (Sheridan, Ind.)

Complete Results of the USEF Saddle Seat Medal Final

Stay up to date with U.S. saddle seat by following USA Saddle Seat on Facebook and U.S. Equestrian on Twitter and Instagram. Use #USASaddleSeat.

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The American Morgan Horse Association (AMHA) welcomed nearly 1,000 Morgan horses to the 2019 Grand National and World Championship Morgan Horse Show. Held at the State Fair Park in Oklahoma City, Okla., October 12-19, the best of the breed competed in a wide range of disciplines and classes running in four rings concurrently. Horses were shown in divisions including pleasure driving, English pleasure, hunter pleasure, in-hand, park, western pleasure, jumping, trail and more.

Complete results at the Grand National and World Championship Morgan Horse Show are available online.

Excellence in equitation is valued by the AMHA and is recognized through the AMHA Medal classes, held at local and regional Morgan and all-breed shows throughout the competition year. AMHA is pleased to announce the following riders as the 2019 Gold Medal recipients in their respective seats.

• Catriona Kozijn (Alberta, Canada)
• Alayna LoCascio (Dayton, Ohio)
• Sydney LoCascio (Dayton, Ohio)
• Nick Madsen (Cave Creek, Ariz.)
• Olivia Mauldin (Choctaw, Okla.)
• Moira Taber (Shoshone, Idaho)

Read more about the AMHA Gold Medal program.

Nineteen promising young Morgan exhibitors also competed in the AMHA Youth of the Year competition. Taylor Hudson of Fairview, Pa., took home the win as Youth of the Year and Clea Cloutier of Derry, N.H., was named reserve champion. Read more about the AMHA Youth of the Year program and results.

Megan Gallagher of Grass Valley, Calif., was awarded the $1,500 AMHA Young Adult Alliance Judging School Scholarship for her interest in earning her Morgan R judging card and strengthening the breed with other amateurs and professionals. Read more about the scholarship.

Follow AMHA and US Equestrian

The American Morgan Horse Association is a recognized affiliate of U.S. Equestrian. Keep up with future news of the Grand National & World Championship Morgan Horse Show® on Facebook and with the Morgan horse all year long by following AMHA on Facebook and Twitter.

Read More About the Morgan Horse:

• Morgan Horse
• The Morgan Horse
• Morgans for Everyone
• Driven to Succeed: Morgan

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The 2019 U.S. Saddle Seat Young Riders Stars Team secured the gold medal and gained valuable experience in international competition at the 2019 U.S. Saddle Seat Invitational Test Event in Las Vegas, Nev. Hosted at South Point Arena and Equestrian Center from October 29 through November 1, the U.S. team faced off against a tough Canadian team in three-gaited saddle seat equitation. Under the guidance of Coach Christy Parker of Hortense, Ga., and Assistant Coach Mary Mag Wilson of Cave Creek, Ariz., the U.S. saddle seat equitation program has again proven itself to be a force in international saddle seat competition.

2019 U.S. Saddle Seat Young Riders Stars Team

Parker and Wilson also coached the U.S. Saddle Seat Young Riders Stripes Team to victory against South Africa in New Orleans, La., earlier this year. “I didn’t think anything could top the New Orleans experience, but I think these five girls took that as a challenge and threw down the hammer every single ride and every moment of this competition,” said Parker.

“These 16 kids are everything great about this sport,” Parker continued. “I can’t find the right words to express their dedication to the process, courage, and incredible skill, not to mention their teamwork and welcoming hospitality to the other countries. Every one of their families, instructors and trainers should be so very proud.”

Gaining valuable experience in international competition, the gold medal-winning team of Dawson Archibald, of Andover, Kan.; Chelsea Dragan, of Burlington, Ky.; Lillian Johnson, of O’Fallon, Mo.; Gabriella Snyder of St. Louis, Mo.; and Reagan Webb, of Dayton, Ohio, learned about the experience of competing for their country this week.

“Usually when I’m showing and riding, I’m working for myself and for my barn. But here, I’m working for all the girls on the team. We’re [always] encouraging each other and trying to do our best for each other,” said Johnson.

“It’s such a huge honor to be here representing my country, and it’s such a privilege to be given this opportunity,” said 16-year-old Dragan about the U.S. Saddle Seat Invitational Test Event.

The riders competed on horses they were unfamiliar with as a true test of their equitation and horsemanship skills. Teams participated in the draw for horses on Tuesday, October 29, and had time to practice and to familiarize themselves with their new equine partners the next day.

The judged portion of the event began on Thursday, October 31, where the U.S. made a strong first impression on the judging panel of Bret Day, of Versailles, Ky.; Allison Deardorff of Molalla, Ore.; and Kent Swalla of Columbia, Mo. Competition concluded on Friday evening and the pressure was on as riders performed rail and pattern work one last time. The U.S. athletes produced strong individual workouts, solidifying victory for the U.S. Saddle Seat Young Riders Stars Team.

Adding to the importance of the U.S. Saddle Seat Invitational Test Event, the competition serves as an opportunity to develop and observe potential riders for future team competitions, including the Saddle Seat World Cup.

The 2019 U.S. Saddle Seat Young Riders Teams’ efforts are supported by the USA Equestrian Trust. U.S. Equestrian is pleased to partner with Becker Brothers LLC, who supplied practice jodhpurs for the 2019 U.S. Saddle Seat Young Riders Stripes and Stars Teams. Additional support has been generously provided by Golden Creek Farms Inc., Dawson Archibald, Mr. and Mrs. Andrew J. Schindler, and multiple patron, fan and stall donors. U.S. Equestrian would like to extend a special thank you to the owners, trainers and volunteers that generously provided their horses and time for this special event.

For more information about the U.S. Saddle Seat Young Riders Teams and other saddle seat pathway programs, go to www.usasaddleseatworldcup.org.

Stay up to date with the U.S. Saddle Seat Young Riders Teams by following USA Saddle Seat on Facebook and US Equestrian on Twitter and Instagram. Use #USASaddleSeat.

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You may think of the American Saddlebred as a high-stepping show-ring mount—a pretty face born to show off. But after talking to some Saddlebred owners, it’s easy to see that the breed is much more. Eventing, long-distance riding, combined driving and therapeutic riding are just some of the vocations the Saddlebred is succeeding in today.

Showing in Style

Michelle Partridge’s deep love for the American Saddlebred took root when she started riding and showing Saddlebreds at 8 years old. Eventually it led her to competitive success, including a team gold medal at the Saddle Seat World Cup in South Africa in 2006. Later it landed her a career dedicated to promoting the breed as marketing manager for the American Saddlebred Horse Association (ASHA) in Lexington, Kentucky.

“There’s nothing to dislike about the American Saddlebred, and that may be what I like most about them,” says Partridge. “They’re easy to train and love to please. They do their job with their ears up and a go-forward attitude. Their lovable attitude and desire to ‘crawl into your pocket’ makes them your instant best friend.”

Partridge currently has four Saddlebreds, one retired and three that she’s training with hopes of competing at the ASHA World’s Championship Horse Show in August. She acknowledges that they’re more than just “the peacocks of the show-ring,” however.
“My world-champion show horse was also my bareback riding buddy and the world’s best trail horse.”

The Best Therapy

Believe it or not, the same panache that has secured the Saddlebred’s rep as a flashy show-ring competitor also makes it a suitable therapeutic riding mount. With charisma, intelligence, a willingness to please and a curious nature, the Saddlebred is a social butterfly that wants to be everyone’s friend.

At The Red Barn therapeutic riding facility, a Saddlebred works well with special needs children. Photo courtesy Joy O’Neal/The Red Barn

“That ‘look at me’ attitude in the show-ring is perfect for building a relationship because it’s like the horse is saying, ‘Come be friends with me!’” says Joy O’Neal, founder of and executive director for The Red Barn, a therapeutic riding facility in Alabama.

“Children with special needs can often feel like they don’t have many friends, or they can be bullied. They may be stared at or just simply left out at times. I love that a Saddlebred’s curious personality helps them seek out a relationship with our students, because the world in general may not always provide our students with the same acceptance.”

O’Neal adds that Saddlebreds are quick to learn and adapt to their surroundings, which is crucial in a therapeutic riding setting. “They understand what they should do in a therapeutic lesson, like stand at the basketball goal, walk around the barrel, or realize the wheelchair isn’t going to attack them,” she says.

Saddlebreds on Parade

The Saddlebred’s spirit and grace is also well-suited to parade riding. And if anyone is familiar with riding in parades, it’s Michele Macfarlane of Scripps Miramar Ranch in California. For more than 30 years, she has ridden or driven her Saddlebreds in the famed Rose Parade on New Year’s Day.

“By nature, Saddlebreds are showy and spirited,” says Macfarlane, noting the appeal to the crowd of their high-set necks and high knee and hock action.

Other qualities that make the Saddlebred ideal for parades and exhibitions include trainability, a comfortable ride and a good amount of energy, says Macfarlane. “They have lots of energy without being fractious,” she explains. “I like energetic horses, and I really like up-headed, proud-looking horses.”

The Scripps Miramar Ranch Saddlebreds are regulars in the famed Rose Parade. (That’s celeb Saddlebred afficionado Carson Kressley leading the way.) Photo by Rick Osteen/Courtesy Michelle McFarlane

And if all of these testimonies to the Saddlebred’s charm don’t sway you, maybe the Queen of England will. Macfarlane and her horses were invited to participate in Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee at Windsor Palace in 2012.

“Many countries and breeds were represented, which made me very proud,” says Macfarlane of her horses’ royal moment.

Saddlebreds Get Sporty

With all this talk about looks and swagger, let’s not forget about the Saddlebred’s athleticism. The breed is naturally a good mover, with stamina to spare for anyone interested in cross-country, fox hunting, endurance riding and other similar sports, says Rachel Kelley of Crestwood, Ky. She events at the Novice level with her 6-year-old American Saddlebred It’s Just George (aka “George”).

“Saddlebreds can be fantastic sport horses if given the chance,” says Kelley. “George really helps people get past their misconceptions of the breed. Everywhere we go, people ask what kind of horse he is, and they are usually completely shocked when I tell them he is a full Saddlebred.”

A good ambassador for his breed, George is calm but bright and curious, says Kelley, who hopes to compete him in the American Eventing Championships this fall. The pair has finished in the ribbons at every competition since moving up to the Novice level.

George was even named the 2015 ASHA Eventing Champion at the Sport Horse Year End Awards, and was the 2015 ASHA National High Point Champion in eventing.

“Saddlebreds really throw themselves into their work,” says Kelley. “Whatever you ask them to do, a Saddlebred can rise to the task. Not to mention they’re gorgeous! A Saddlebred is the perfect combination of a working horse and a horse with a bit of flair.”

American Saddlebred Varoom competes in a combined driving event with Carrie Ostrowski. Photo courtesy American Saddlebred Association

Learn more about the American Saddlebred at www.asha.net.

Kim Klimek is a freelance writer based in Kentucky.

This article originally appeared in the May 2016 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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A: The rules are clear that no competitor shall be penalized for wearing protective headgear in any division. Since that is the rule and safety is a major concern today, we judges must follow that rule and be sensitive and concerned about a rider’s safety.
The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) recently made it mandatory for all dressage riders to wear a helmet in all [national-level] classes, eliminating the traditional, formal top hat in higher levels of competition and when wearing formal attire such as a shadbelly. In a few states, the state itself (regardless of USEF rules) mandates that helmets will be worn on the show grounds by all children under a certain age, not just when they are riding in a class at a show.

When I’m judging a saddle seat class at a horse show, rated or unrated, I am personally not influenced by a rider wearing a protective helmet over a saddle seat derby or formal top hat. In the English pleasure classes, it is the horse that is being judged; the rider’s headgear doesn’t play a role in my judging at all. Yes, the rider plays an important role in how the horse performs under their direction, but it is the horse ultimately that is being critiqued. The best horse in a class always rises to the top of the judge’s card based on criteria being judged.

In a saddle seat equitation class, it’s the rider who is being judged based on criteria such as the rider’s overall position, use of aids, stature and ability to communicate with the horse to achieve a quality ride. Again, if a rider is wearing a helmet instead of a derby, that is not going to alter my judging for any class.

Let’s consider this: We have Olympic ice skaters, gymnasts, and other competitive sports that have costumes or traditional attire for their respective competitions. It is beautiful to watch these athletes performing gracefully to music.

Let us now add the helmet requirement. Although we all agree that the protective headgear serves a much-needed safety function, in my opinion, it diminishes the appealing look of traditional attire and overall appearance. It is much more pleasing to watch a competitor performing at a horse show in the saddle seat or western division wearing the traditional attire, including a derby, top hat or western hat. However, in the safety-conscious world we live in, we must not and should not penalize any competitor in any division for wearing a helmet.

Should we “dress up” a safety helmet to match attire? I recommend that you remain conservative so that you and your horse make the statement instead of your headgear!

CHRIS CASSENTI is a professional trainer/instructor at Chrislar Farm in Rowley, Mass., and a United States Equestrian Federation judge for several disciplines, including English pleasure, western, hunter pleasure and equitation.

This article originally appeared in the February 2015 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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Morgans in the classic pleasure division should have impeccable manners and give the distinct impression of being a pleasure to ride.

A Pleasure Ride

In the Morgan world, classic pleasure is the name of the division for saddle seat horses with exceptional manners and a willing disposition. The equivalent for Arabians and Saddlebreds is country English pleasure. In these divisions, horses are judged first and foremost on their manners and obedience; they should appear to be a pleasure to ride. They need to have good gaits and be able to travel in a saddle seat frame, but the extreme animation seen in other divisions is less important here. For Morgans and Saddlebreds, these classes are restricted to amateur riders only.

Chris Cassenti, a Morgan judge and trainer at Chrislar Farm in Massachusetts, emphasizes that good manners come first in the Morgan classic pleasure division.

“When I am judging a classic pleasure class, it is important to me that the horse give the distinct impression of being a pleasure to ride, willingly performing each gait with smooth transitions,” says Cassenti. “The walk is of utmost importance, and standing quietly in the line-up and backing are imperative.” For Morgans, the rule book states that entries must be judged 40 percent on conformation, so Cassenti takes that into account as well.

Betsy Webb trains American Saddlebreds and teaches saddle seat riding at the Louisville Equestrian Center in Kentucky. She agrees that manners come first in the country pleasure division. “After [manners], we look for beauty, style and an easy way of going,” she says. “The country horse should give the impression that he would be nice to ride outside of the arena.”

Martha Murdock, an Arabian trainer and judge based in Paris, Ky., looks for a relaxed, comfortable ride from a country pleasure horse.

“I pay particular attention to the expression of both horse and rider,” she says. “I look for riders who are not tight in the arms as a result of the horses pulling them because they are heavy in the bridle.

“A true country horse will be relaxed and step softly into a canter with ease, not side-stepping or rushing,” continues Murdock. “I like a smooth canter that helps the rider to look comfortable.”

Arabians in the country pleasure division are required to halt on the rail, back, and walk off on a loose rein. This is a small part of the class, but one that can separate the winners from the also-rans. “I find that many times, a horse that performs out of balance and is not relaxed might halt and stand quietly, but he never backs up straight,” says Murdock. “More often than not, the back begins only after the horse tosses his head before that first step.”

Classic and country pleasure classes shouldn’t be considered a catch-all for horses that couldn’t make it in other saddle seat divisions. In fact, finding that perfect balance of manners and motion can be challenging, and not every horse will make the grade.

“A horse that doesn’t have a high-stepping trot can certainly win a classic pleasure class, provided that he has all of the other ingredients,” says Cassenti. “A horse with less motion but that performs with lots of presence, quality and willingness to perform each gait calmly is perfect for this division.”

Many amateur riders prefer to show horses in these divisions because they don’t require the upkeep that some of the more specialized horses do, and they can be ridden recreationally in between shows. For Morgans and Saddlebreds, there are restrictions on the type of shoeing that is allowed in these divisions, so you won’t see the weight or pads that sometimes appear in other divisions. (Click here to learn more about saddle seat shoeing regulations.)

For Arabians in the English pleasure division, there is a larger focus on consistent high motion than there is for their country pleasure counterparts.

Stepping Up

English pleasure can be a confusing title for riders coming to the breed circuits from local open shows. At riding clubs and schooling shows across the country, English pleasure classes are typically filled with hunt seat riders competing on the flat. However, for Morgan and Arabian exhibitors, English classes are strictly saddle seat. The Saddlebred equivalent is show pleasure, which is restricted to amateur riders and divided into three-gaited and five-gaited divisions. If your horse has plenty of natural action and energy, consider moving up to English or show pleasure.

“A show pleasure horse can have a little more power and motion [than a country pleasure horse],” says Webb. “He can be a little snappier in his gaits. You’re still looking for a well-mannered horse. Show pleasure horses don’t have to halt on the rail, but they still need to flat walk.”

“Attitude, training and balance point are the key differences between the English and country pleasure horses,” says Murdock. “The training for these divisions includes different degrees of intensity. In country pleasure, the focus will be on performing without error. In English, the focus is on consistent high motion.”

The English pleasure criteria for Morgans are similar.

“The English pleasure horse is a more bold-moving horse than a classic pleasure horse,” says Cassenti. “The horse must perform all gaits properly but may be more forward moving and higher stepping. The horse’s attitude and conformation play a big part in selecting the English pleasure horse.”

Shoeing regulations are less strict in these divisions. If your horse is a gifted mover, you can show him in plain, unweighted shoes, but know that you will probably be going up against horses with show shoes in these classes. Some shows will allow you to cross-enter between the pleasure divisions.

“A horse shod for the classic division, with enough natural motion and attitude can certainly compete in both [classic and English pleasure], particularly if the rider can ride the horse a little more boldly,” says Cassenti.

Park
In the days before sports cars, wealthy businessmen would show off their success by trotting their fanciest horses through the park. This is said to be the origin of the park division, where showing off is the name of the game.

For saddle seat riders, there’s nothing more exhilarating than taking a spin on a big-moving park horse. But not every horse is cut out for this division. Today’s park classes demand extreme natural action, typically enhanced by training and shoeing. That big motion requires a lot of energy, and the horses that excel in the park division tend to be hot.

“A park horse will have extreme knee and balanced hock action and that brilliant upheaded and tail-flagging look in the show-ring,” says Cassenti. “In my opinion, a park horse is born with these attributes and a good trainer and rider can put the whole package together.”

Judges will fault poor manners or attitude in the park division, but little mistakes that might cost a rider a ribbon in the pleasure divisions will not necessarily mar an otherwise good performance.

“In a park class, I do not like to see ears pinned or tail wringing, no matter how high a horse can trot,” says Murdock. “However, a single break of gait or a canter that is a bit strong should not eliminate a park horse from the winner’s circle.”

Park Saddlebreds are bold-moving, powerful show horses.

Park is the pinnacle of the saddle seat division for Arabians and Morgans. For Saddlebreds, the park classes bring in the bold, showy horses that tend to have more power than show pleasure horses but don’t fit the refined, swanlike mold of the three-gaited division (click here to read about the American Saddlebred three- and five-gaited performance divisions).

“A park horse should have quite a bit of power,” says Webb. “He should be just as much show horse as an open three-gaited or five-gaited Saddlebred. He can be a little less refined than the three-gaited horse, but could be a little stronger.”

Saddlebred park horses are not faulted for performing a two-beat “park walk” instead of a flat walk, and are not held to the same standard of manners as their pleasure counterparts, but they still must give the impression of controlled energy.

“Park horses shouldn’t go extremely fast, and they can do an animated walk,” says Webb. “But it should be a straight walk, not crooked. In park and in all the divisions, the horse should look like he’s giving his rider a pleasant ride.”

Like all high-performance horses, park horses often require more meticulous management than those in other divisions. For this reason, many park horses are kept in professional training.

“Most amateurs have a full-time job or attend school, which doesn’t allow them the time needed to work these horses regularly and to their peak,” explains Cassenti. “There are amateur riders who are certainly qualified to work these horses if time permits. However, park horses are elite athletes and are best maintained by a professional who does have the time, talent and experience needed. The park horse is like the Olympian of the Morgan breed. Olympians work all year long with professionals to bring them to the peak of their ability.”

With that in mind, a rider who is new to saddle seat and has park aspirations shouldn’t shy away from the division, if the proper instruction and support are there.

“In any division, success results from preparation,” says Murdock. “If a rider is prepared properly, I think it is possible to master any division. I have known many amateurs who started out [their show careers] in the park division riding seasoned horses who took them to top honors.”

Liked this article? Here are others on saddle seat riding:
Saddle Seat Equitation: Form to Function
Video: Adventures in Saddle Seat
How to Train Your Saddle Seat Horse at Home

LESLIE POTTER holds a B.S. in Equestrian Science with a concentration in saddle seat riding from William Woods University. Follow her on Twitter: @LeslieInLex.

This article originally appeared in the January 2013 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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