This rider has a very good leg, with heel down, ankle flexed, toe out, and calf on the horse.

Her base of support is excellent, her seat out of the saddle just enough to free her horse’s back. Her back is flat and relaxed, and her head and eyes are up.

Her long crest release is very well done, her hand pressing alongside the horse’s crest, halfway up his neck. But she’s ready to attempt the automatic release and learn to use her hand independently of her seat.

Her horse has a terrific expression, with a very focused eye and ear. His front end is impeccable: knees and forearms high, tight, and even. His style is typical of many jumpers who are superb with their knees but rather careless with their bodies, letting their bellies brush across the top rail in what is known as a splinter-belly style. He’s doing very well at this level-but to have the scope for really big fences, he must be able to get his body up as well as his knees.

This horse carries good weight and shines with regular brushing. The rider is neatly and conservatively dressed. The fleece on the tack is white and tidy.

Reprinted from the June 2002 issue of Practical Horseman magazine. Is this photo of you? Email Practical.Horseman@EquiNetwork.com, and we’ll identify you.

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