Every Time, Everywhere - Wrong lead! It’s one of the earliest alerts a young rider hears from her coach. One’s heart sinks to hear that same alert from the coach calling over the show ring rail. The novice rider learns the outside leg back and kiss cue to canter but I’ve found that riders are often unsure why they should use this cue. Let’s break it down. We’ll review the phonics of teaching your horse to pick up the correct lead and some hints to help the rider recognize it.

Spruce Meadows has shone a bright light on show jumping in Canada and lifted Canadian riders to the upper echelons of the sport. The best show jumpers of the last 50 years have competed at Spruce Meadows, allowing up-and-coming Canadians to watch and ride with the best.

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of a horse show — the impeccably groomed horses, the polished riders, the vibrant atmosphere, the thrill of victory. A ribbon passed from one hand to another becomes a shining testament to hours of dedication, passion, and commitment. Amidst the buzz, it might also be easy to overlook the lady holding the basket of ribbons, who is smiling ear to ear as she celebrates your victory. You might not realize that it is her victory, too.

Whenever I coach a new group of riders at a clinic or in a lesson, I am always surprised at how few people can tell me the five different rein aids and the purpose of each. Therefore, it is always a question I like to throw out to the group. I usually see people looking down and moving their hands around, some vague stares, and the occasional rider being able to describe at least one or two of the five.