In-Hand Trail Obstacle by Roey Mobley
As a new show season is starting let ’ s tackle a versatility class that is gaining popularity . In hand trail obstacle ! This is a class that combines obstacles used in our standard under saddle classes — with a hint of showmanship .
Most shows usually use the same setup of trail obstacles from the ridden classes . A few variations may be necessary . If you can imagine , going through a trail course on your horse , it ’ s not that much more difficult in-hand .
Let ’ s imagine walking through an obstacle course together .
Gates
Gates can still be worked easily in-hand . To work the gate you will need to transfer the left hand lead coil to your right hand . Letting your left hand hold the gate . The pattern designer should always allow for a left hand push or pull style gate instruction in my opinion . Or the standard wording “ work the gate ” can be used .
6 NWHA National News | March 2024