3-Day Event (Coconino Horse Trials)?

Question

I am going into my second horse trials in August 18 and its is run over 3 days and my question is will it be harder to show jump after cross country? What are some good tips to encourage my horse to back off in the show jumping (belive me we will have NO trouble making the time!)

Answer 1

If it is run over 3 days then showjumping should be on the 3rd day, that means the rest of the 2nd day you should have off. Check his legs after x-country and before showjumping. Half Halts, half halts, half halts!!! =] and make sure you're warm up isnt too long but well schooled.

Answer 2

Actually, Coconino is held over the course of 3 days, but Friday is just an introductory/course walk/check in day.  Saturday is for X-country and Sunday is dressage followed by stadium jumping.

Lots of horses love to get "hot" during the X-country course.  I found the best way to keep them cool and on a steady pace is to talk to them throughout the course in a nice low soothing voice.  Talk about the jumps your approaching, what a nice job he's doing, how much fun your having, etc.  Believe it or not, he'll actually start paying attention to your voice and it will calm him.

BTW -- I LOVE Coconino, I did the event several years in a row back in the 90s.  It is such a gorgeous course and the higher elevation in Flagstaff usually makes for a cooler show.

Have fun & good luck!

Answer 3

half halt half halt half halt!  my horse does the same thing. i just have to keep saying easy and half halting three strides before the jump, then bring him back immediately

Answer 4

haha, I went to Coconino horse trials I and II last year and the year before! Who is your coach? I would find a good coach (I know a few good ones who go to that show if you need names) because they will be able to know you and your horse more than anyone on here. The show jumping at Coconino is in a circle arena which is cool but it's easy to get lost! what level are you doing? The cross country course is great! Have a great time!

Answer 5

Check your horse back with a little close of your fingers on the outside rein. Make sure he or she is well rested.