Racehorse bridles.?

Question

What is the ring that runs through the bit and then around the back of the jaw on a racehorses bridle for?

Answer 1

Is this what you are talking about, a Dexter snaffle? http://www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk/product...

It is strong bit used for hard to control horses.

Answer 2

You are reffering to a bit similar to the Chifney - also known as a Colt's bit or an anti-rearing bit.

It is used to stop the racehorses pulling too hard when being led round the parade ring and to stop them from rearing.  It is NEVER used to control the horse when ridden as it is too severe.

Some trainers, like Aidan O'Brien use it on every horse as standard, regardless of their temperament.  Other trainers will use it on a horse they feel it is necessary for.

Here is a picture of a Chifney: http://www.headtohoof.co.uk/productDetai...

Answer 3

That is called a ring bit.  It is a more severe bit than a regular "D" bit, giving the rider more control over a strong horse.

Answer 4

I truelly would like to attempt to answer question, but clarify (for me).  The ring that runs through the bit, perhaps where the bit in the horse's mouth, the ring, what attaches the bit to the bridle is that it ??  For an  example, The "D" shaped metal /aluminum called a "D" ringed snaffle, in one case.   The back of a horses "jaw", perhaps you mean  the curb chain, or maybe, throat latch??  Name a racehorse that runs in that type of bridle and someone will no doubt give a more definitive answer.

Answer 5

I looked at a picture of Maldivian and it is a ring bit, not a Chiffney bit, that he is wearing. A Chiffney bit would not be used for racing or any type of riding. I have not heard it called a Dexter snaffle but the picture of it that "Rags to Riches" posted is more or less what it looks like.

Answer 6

Its called a Chifney bit, most often used for leading horses (especially studs) as it allows the handler better control of the horse's head.