ACTHA Monthly | August 2015 | 12
DRAG
Drag a log or something similar in a straight line from point A to point B.
A nylon or cotton rope must be used similar in thickness to a horse lead rope. The rope will not inflict injury on human or horse. Western riders are to wrap rope one turn toward their belt buckle, keeping their thumb up and out of the way. English riders or riders with hornless saddles can hold the rope in a figure 8 in their hand (NOT COILED AROUND THEIR HAND). Rope should release immediately upon rider release.
Judging Criteria: Object being dragged should be kept at a comfortable distance (a horse`s length) from horse. Horse will be judged on calmness and
willingness. Rider will be judged on balance and safety. RIDER IS NEVER TO WRAP THE ROPE IN A MANNER THAT CANNOT BE RELEASED IMMEDIATELY!
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Tips: In any obstacle we encounter together with our horse, we have to first respect the horse’s natural flight instinct and respond in a manner that is safe for us and our horse as well as those around us. Creation of confidence should always be your first care. I believe this is such an important obstacle to practice and master at home.
Have you ever waded through deep underbrush that tickled your horse’s undersides? We have all had branches goose our horses, or get caught in their tails where they’ve had to drag it along until it breaks