This is a rider with a lot of style on a first-rate small horse or large pony. Her leg is exemplary; but she is out of the saddle a little too far?in her case, because she’s jumping slightly ahead of her horse. Her back is quite nice, though, and she’s looking up and ahead.
Her hands are too far above the crest in her long release, which results in an exaggeratedly broken line from her elbow to the horse’s mouth. This fault is so common today that I suspect people are starting to think it’s correct. Otherwise, she’s a very elegant rider with excellent conformation.
Her immaculate pony is the best of the horses this month. He’s jumping in beautiful form, with his knees up by his chin. He’s very tight and square below the knees, and he’s showing an attentive expression. I like him very much.
The turnout adds to the picture. Everything is clean and fits correctly, and the rider is wearing leggings, which I like to see on children riding ponies.
Reprinted from the April 1987 issue of Practical Horseman magazine. Is this photo of you? Email Practical.Horseman@EquiNetwork.com, and we’ll identify you!
