T Barr Equine

09/01/2025

I wish I had educated myself on this sooner. I thought this was for just gained horse shows or shows offering gated classes, nope, this is every horse show in the country from open breed weekend/day shows, 4H Horse Shows all the way to World Shows of any breed or discipline. This is scary and a gross overreach of power and is going to negatively the industry as a whole. Please sign the petition and share with your friends and family.

𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐬𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐀𝐜𝐭 𝐖𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐬𝐞 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬
As the February 1, 2025 implementation date for the revised Horse Protection Act (HPA) looms over the horse industry, many people who are involved with horses find themselves wondering exactly how they will be affected. Simply put, the revised version of the HPA would make unnecessary, heavy-handed government overreach the norm, devastate all levels of horse show communities, and effectively cripple much of the equine industry in the United States.

𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐑𝐮𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐅𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰
𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐞𝐱𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞, 𝐚𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐅𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝟏, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓, 𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐬𝐞 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐦𝐮𝐬𝐭:
• Notify APHIS no less than 30 days in advance of the event, also specifying whether or not they are hiring/requesting an inspector.
• Notify APHIS of any event updates 15 days prior to the event
• Report any violations of the Horse Protection Act to the APHIS regional director within five days after conclusion of the event.
• Allow free and uninhibited access by HPIs to records, barns, horse trailers, stables, stalls, arenas, and all other show or exhibition grounds.
• Verify identity of each horse entered at a show, exhibition, sale, or auction
• Maintain all horse show and exhibition records for 90 days and make available to inspectors.
• Report any violations of the Horse Protection Act to the APHIS regional director within five days after conclusion of the event.

𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐬𝐞 𝐨𝐰𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬, 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐮𝐥𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐦𝐞𝐚𝐧 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬. 𝐈𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐨𝐫 𝐞𝐱𝐡𝐢𝐛𝐢𝐭 𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐰𝐚𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝/𝐨𝐫 𝐨𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫 𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐬𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐬, 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐫𝐮𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐛𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐜𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐟𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐢𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐇𝐏𝐀 𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝:
• Anything that could make a horse sore, lame, or irritated are prohibited. Sore muscles from a focused training session or a small rub from an incorrectly fitted bell boot could be equated to intentional soring
• Any substance that could make a horse sore or have an inflammatory reaction is prohibited, including therapeutic liniment
• No substances may be used on the limbs of a horse, including skin and hair conditioners or fly spray
• Horse owners are not the only ones liable. Any participant with horses is subject to liability, including agents, haulers, trainers, vendors, supporters, and sponsors.
• Mandatory rest periods must be observed during shows, exhibitions, sales, and auctions.
• Any information requested must be provided to inspectors on demand.
• Horses’ legs must be blemish-free, including dermatologic conditions such as irritation, moisture, edema, swelling, redness, epidermal thickening, loss of hair, or other evidence of inflammation.
• Horse inspections may include, but are not limited to, “visual inspection of a horse and review of records, physical examination of a horse, including touching, rubbing, palpating, and observation of vital signs, and the use of any diagnostic device or instrument, and may require the removal of any shoe or any other equipment, substance, or paraphernalia from the horse when deemed necessary by the professional conducting such inspection.
• Horses can be detained by HPIs for 24 hours.
• Therapeutic treatments, including massage, chiropractic treatments, and PMF must be administered or overseen by qualified veterinarians
• Complete veterinary records must be kept and maintained for horses receiving therapeutic treatment of any kind.
• Requirements for shipping and transporting horses.
• Any horse winning first place in a class is required to be re-inspected.
• Horses that receive a rub or blemish while competing are subject to HPA violations, even if the horse passed inspection prior to entering the ring.

𝐀𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧, 𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐚 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐰𝐞 𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐨𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝟏𝟐𝟗-𝐩𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐇𝐏𝐀 𝐝𝐨𝐜𝐮𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐞 𝐰𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐲 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝.

𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐬𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲.
The Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders and Exhibitors Association website states that there have been 541,322 TWHs registered since the association’s founding in 1935. Just for comparison, the American Quarter Horse Association has registered over 6 million horses since its founding in 1940. With several other major breed associations, numerous competition organizations, and hundreds of horse sales in the nation, there are thousands and thousands of horses competing or selling that would require inspection by the new HPA.

The inspection process for TWHs is notoriously long and laborious; it is not unheard of for competitors to stand in line for literally hours to have their horses inspected. The largest TWH show is the annual 10- day Celebration where approximately 2,000 horses compete. Historically, the USDA has inspected around 50 TWH events annually. What happens when inspections are required at every show across the country, from 4-H playdays to large international events, especially when there is a shortage of qualified inspectors? It is common for TWH exhibitors to have to wait in line for several hours to have their horses inspected; what happens at a show like the NCHA futurity, with over 600 horses in the three-year old class alone?

𝐒𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐉𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐦 𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐰𝐞𝐛𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐫 𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐔𝐒𝐃𝐀 𝐫𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐏𝐀. 𝐃𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧/𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐝, 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐰𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐮𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝. 𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬, 𝐔𝐒𝐃𝐀 𝐥𝐞𝐟𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐚 𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐟 𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐲.

𝐁𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐠𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝
The HPA was made law in 1970 to regulate the Tennessee Walking Horse (TWH) industry, prohibiting the showing, sale, auction, exhibition, or transport of sored horses.
The USDA defines soring as “the application of any chemical (e.g., mustard oil or diesel fuel), mechanical agent (e.g., overweight chains), or practice (e.g., trimming a hoof to expose the sensitive tissue) inflicted upon any limb of a horse, that can cause or be expected to cause the horse to suffer physical pain or distress when moving.” Soring was sometimes utilized by unscrupulous trainers to artificially create a highly animated gait in TWHs and other gaited breeds.

Since 1976, rigorous inspections of show horses, both before and after a class, have been required at all TWH events. Any evidence of soring of any kind results in instant disqualification from the class and fines. In the years since the HPA was enacted, compliance of the law has been consistently over 90%. In 2023, the compliance rate was 98%.

Nevertheless, animal extremists have not only persisted in their attacks of the TWH industry, but also in seeking to expand the definition of “soring” to encompass as much of the horse industry as possible. The recent revisions to the law are the result. The lead USDA veterinarian, Dr. Aaron Rhyner, even went so far as to say that he could see how just riding a horse could be considered to be a type of soring.

The revised rule states: “Soring has been used almost exclusively in the training of certain Tennessee Walking Horses and racking horses to induce pain, resulting in an exaggerated gait that is valued in the show ring. 𝙃𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧, 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙃𝙋𝘼’𝙨 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙝𝙞𝙗𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙩 𝙨𝙤𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝙝𝙤𝙧𝙨𝙚𝙨 𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙞𝙥𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙣 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙬𝙨, 𝙚𝙭𝙝𝙞𝙗𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨, 𝙨𝙖𝙡𝙚𝙨, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙖𝙪𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨 𝙚𝙭𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙫𝙤𝙡𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙝𝙤𝙧𝙨𝙚 𝙗𝙧𝙚𝙚𝙙𝙨.”

It has been estimated that there are usually no more than 50 TWH shows in any given year, which stands to reason as the TWH sector is a relatively small portion of the overall United States horse industry. The new requirements would extend to ALL shows, from local 4-H playdays to annual international competitions, easily totaling hundreds of shows. Currently, speed-based events are exempt.

𝐈𝐟 𝐚𝐧 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐨𝐫 𝐡𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐚 𝐔𝐒𝐃𝐀 𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫, 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐇𝐏𝐀 𝐯𝐢𝐨𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭.
While the USDA has exponentially and arbitrarily expanded the scope of the HPA, they have at the same time drastically reduced the number of possible inspectors by eliminating the use of third-part designated qualified persons (DQPs) that have historically been utilized. This has very effectively and even deliberately created a shortage of qualified inspectors.

The USDA’s APHIS is now solely responsible for training and employing Horse Protection Inspectors (HPIs), who must be licensed veterinarians or veterinary technicians. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐧𝐞𝐰 𝐫𝐮𝐥𝐞 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐛𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐲 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞:
https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/05/08/2024-09469/horse-protection-amendments

𝐖𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐉𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐓𝐀𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐀𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐓𝐎𝐏 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬. 𝐖𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐬𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧, 𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐳𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐞𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐠𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡. 𝐈𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐳𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐢𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐧𝐚𝐦𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐨 𝐭𝐨 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐞@𝐰𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐞.𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐨.

𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐒𝐈𝐆𝐍 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐩𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧
https://www.ruralamericainaction.com/petition/stop-the-horse-protection-act

𝐉𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐖𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐉𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐞- https://www.westernjustice.info/memberships

08/10/2024

What an amazing show season! 🎉 I had an absolute blast judging and working with so many talented riders and horses. My 6-year-old self, dreaming big horse dreams on her old mare, could have never imagined this life—but it has turned out to be so much more than I ever expected!

A huge thank you to everyone who invested their time in me over the years—I'm so lucky to be able to pay it forward by working with the next generation of horse professionals. This year was full of incredible opportunities, and I’m beyond grateful for each and every one. I’m already looking forward to next year and all the excitement it will bring! Thank you to everyone who made this season so memorable—see you all in 2024! 🐴✨

19/08/2024

Wow! This year has been the best year yet of judging and horse shows and It still isn’t over! Thank you to everyone who passed my name along and gave me recommendations, it has been an honor! This year I was able to travel to Colorado, Wyoming, Nebraska, and Montana! Looking forward to the remainder of the shows I have and next year!

28/07/2024

A great explanation of the halter class!

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/vXzVn4EfizoTHdVB/?mibextid=0r8j9z

22/07/2024

🌟 Feature Class of the Week: Trail! 🌟

The Trail class is a true test of your horse's versatility, showcasing their ability to navigate a variety of obstacles with precision and poise. Exhibitors guide their horses through a course that typically includes elements like walking over poles, weaving through cones, side passing, and backing through obstacles. Each maneuver is designed to evaluate the horse’s willingness, responsiveness, and overall training.

🏞️ Why It’s My Favorite: The Trail class emphasizes the bond between horse and rider, highlighting teamwork and communication. It’s not just about completing the course; it’s about demonstrating confidence and control in various scenarios.

Get ready to shine in the arena with your Trail skills! 💪🐴

21/07/2024

🌟 Mastering Western Horsemanship with T Barr Equine! 🌟

Western Horsemanship is an art that combines precision, grace, and a deep bond with your horse. Whether you're showing at local open shows or participating in 4-H, perfecting your horsemanship skills is essential for a standout performance. Here are some key pointers to keep in mind:

1. Body Position:
Posture: Sit tall in the saddle with a straight line from your shoulder, hip, to heel.
Stirrup Length: Adjust so you have a slight bend in your knee, allowing for effective leg aids.
Shoulders: Keep them squared and level.
Hands: Maintain a gentle but firm grip on the reins, keeping your hands steady and in line with your horse's mouth.

2. Transitions:
Consistency: Practice smooth and precise transitions between gaits.
Cues: Use clear and consistent cues for your horse, ensuring they understand what you’re asking.

Online Coaching Offer:
Need personalized guidance to perfect your Western Horsemanship? Join T Barr Equine for online coaching! Get tailored advice, detailed feedback, and expert tips to elevate your performance in the arena. 🐴✨

Follow me for more tips and insights, and let’s achieve excellence together!

20/07/2024

🌀 Mastering the Pivot in Western Horsemanship 🐴

A perfect pivot is a hallmark of Western Horsemanship! Here's what to aim for:

✅ Correct:

-Horse's inside hind foot stays planted.
-Smooth and controlled turn around the hindquarters.
-Outside leg steps over the inside leg.
-Rider maintains balance and clear, precise cues.

❌ Incorrect:
-Horse's hind foot moves or drags.
-Jerky or rushed movements.
-Outside leg fails to step over the inside leg.
-Rider's position shifts, causing miscommunication.

Practice makes perfect! Consistent practice and clear communication with your horse will lead to smooth, flawless pivots. Happy riding! 🏇

📷This photo shows myself and a young TJ, who was 4 at the time. Taken 14 years ago, it highlights how much we can learn from our experiences. In this photo, TJ is not performing a good pivot as he is not stepping over cleanly, and that's because I am not in the correct position to guide him properly. This emphasizes why body position is crucial.

If you want to clean up your pivots before your next horse show, I offer online coaching to help you achieve that perfect pivot!💻

19/07/2024

🔑 Tips for Perfect Transitions:

Practice, Practice, Practice: Consistent practice helps both you and your horse understand and execute transitions effortlessly.
Clear Cues: Use consistent and clear cues to communicate with your horse. This builds trust and responsiveness.
Balance and Position: Maintain proper body position and balance to aid in smooth transitions.
Remember, every ride is an opportunity to refine your transitions. Keep practicing, stay consistent with your cues, and watch your horsemanship skills soar! 🚀

18/07/2024

📣 **Do's and Don'ts of Western Horsemanship Class** 🌟🐴

Western Horsemanship is all about precision, control, and harmony with your horse. Here are some key do's and don'ts to help you shine in the ring:

**✅ Do's:**
- **Sit Tall and Balanced:** Maintain a straight line from your shoulder to hip to heel.
- **Square Your Shoulders:** Keep them back and level to project confidence and control.
- **Proper Hand Position:** Hold your reins steady, with a gentle, relaxed grip.
- **Maintain a Soft Seat:** Follow your horse's movements smoothly without bouncing.
- **Use Subtle Cues:** Communicate with your horse using minimal, precise aids.

**❌ Don'ts:**
- **Avoid Slouching:** Sitting hunched over can throw off your balance and your horse's rhythm.
- **No Excessive Movement:** Keep your upper body still and avoid exaggerated cues.
- **Don't Look Down:** Always look ahead to where you're going to maintain focus and direction.
- **Avoid Tight Grips:** Holding the reins too tightly can restrict your horse and cause discomfort.
- **Don't Rush Transitions:** Ensure smooth and deliberate changes in gait and direction.

Master these tips, and you'll be well on your way to excelling in Western Horsemanship! 🌟

17/07/2024

**Western Horsemanship Pattern Play-by-Play**

When performing this Western Horsemanship pattern, here are some key points to keep in mind:

1. **Starting at Cone A:**
- Most judges prefer that you walk in an arc to approach Cone A instead of walking straight up and performing a pivot. Save your pivots for when they are being judged.

2. **Backing and 180 Turn:**
- Maintain a consistent rhythm during the back and 180-degree turn.
- If you hesitate slightly after the back, even it out at the completion of the pivot.

3. **Jogging:**
- Keep a steady rhythm from the jog to the stop and then to the 270-degree pivot.
- If your horse is quick and responsive, maintain that faster rhythm. Avoid pausing too much, as it can disrupt your rhythm.

4. **Left Lead Lope to Extended Jog:**
- Transitions are crucial. Ensure you hit the transition from the left lead lope to the extended jog right at Cone B.

5. **Quick, Balanced Stop:**
- Perform a quick, balanced stop at Cone A.

6. **Avoid Penalties:**
- Be careful with backing after the stop, as it can result in a penalty or a penalty score of 0 in this pattern.

This pattern can be tricky, so focus on smooth transitions and maintaining a consistent rhythm throughout.

At T Barr Equine, we offer in-person lessons and online coaching to help you fine-tune your horsemanship skills. Contact us to improve your performance in the show ring!

16/07/2024

Master your Western horsemanship with the right body position! 🏇

Posture: Sit tall and relaxed. Maintain a straight line from your shoulder, through your hip, down to your heel for optimal balance.
Stirrup Length: Adjust your stirrups so there’s a slight bend in your knee, keeping your heel down and weight distributed evenly in your seat and stirrups.
Shoulders: Keep your shoulders square and facing forward. This helps guide your horse with subtle cues.
Hand Position: Hold the reins with a soft, steady hand. Keep your hands low and in front of the saddle horn, maintaining a gentle and consistent contact with your horse's mouth.
Remember, the right body position enhances communication with your horse, leading to better performance and a smoother ride. 🌟

For more detailed tips, check out the Horse&Rider article titled :Master your Western horsemanship with the right body position! 🏇

Posture: Sit tall and relaxed. Maintain a straight line from your shoulder, through your hip, down to your heel for optimal balance.
Stirrup Length: Adjust your stirrups so there’s a slight bend in your knee, keeping your heel down and weight distributed evenly in your seat and stirrups.
Shoulders: Keep your shoulders square and facing forward. This helps guide your horse with subtle cues.
Hand Position: Hold the reins with a soft, steady hand. Keep your hands low and in front of the saddle horn, maintaining a gentle and consistent contact with your horse's mouth.
Remember, the right body position enhances communication with your horse, leading to better performance and a smoother ride. 🌟

For more detailed tips, check out the Horse&Rider article titled Ride Form to Function.

15/07/2024

🐴Western Horsemanship: An Overview❤️

Western horsemanship is all about the perfect blend of rider and horse, working seamlessly together in a harmonious performance. In both open horse shows and 4-H competitions, riders are judged on their ability to execute precise patterns and maneuvers with poise, control, and smoothness.

✨ Key Elements:

Rider's Position: Sit tall with a balanced, relaxed posture. Hands should be quiet and reins held with gentle contact.
Seat & Leg Cues: Use subtle seat and leg cues to guide the horse, showing effective and invisible communication.
Patterns: Riders perform specific patterns showcasing their skills in circles, straight lines, pivots, and more.
Transitions: Smooth transitions between gaits (walk, jog, lope) are essential, demonstrating the horse's responsiveness and the rider's finesse.
Control: Precision and control over the horse's speed and direction highlight the rider's ability and the horse's training.
Master these elements to excel in your next competition!

14/07/2024

Putting It All Together: Master Your Showmanship Skills! 🌟🐴

🚨 Showmanship Tips Alert! 🚨

Ready to excel in showmanship at halter? Here’s your ultimate guide to success:

Prepare for Dismissal: After lining up, avoid waiting for a final dismissal unless stopping at a cone. Check discreetly over your shoulder for the judge’s attention.

Be Ready at the Cone: Position yourself correctly and be prepared before the judge dismisses the exhibitor ahead of you. Show readiness and professionalism.

Perfect Your Appearance: Ensure impeccable attire—correctly fitting pants, clean hats, and visible numbers enhance your overall presentation.

Efficient Maneuvers: Practice quick setups and precise maneuvers to showcase your horse effectively without delay.

Take on the challenge to enhance your skills: Join the 'Mastering Showmanship: 5-5-5 Training Guide' and participate in the 5-5-5 Challenge—5 maneuvers, 5 days a week, for 5 minutes a day. Elevate your performance and stand out in every competition!

Precision, preparation, and dedication are your keys to success. Show off your hard work and shine in the ring! 🌟🐴

13/07/2024

Tips for Showmanship Success! 🌟🐴

🚨 Showmanship Tips Alert! 🚨

Preparing for your next showmanship class? Here are some crucial tips to ensure you stand out in the ring:

Dismissal After Line-Up:

Unless stopping at a final cone to complete the pattern, do not wait for a final dismissal. You can discreetly glance back over your shoulder to check if the judge is looking.
Being Ready at the Cone:

Position yourself correctly and be prepared before the judge dismisses the exhibitor ahead of you. This shows readiness and professionalism.
Appearance Matters:

Ensure your attire is impeccable. Pants should be the correct length, hats clean and well-shaped, and your number clearly visible. Attention to detail enhances your overall presentation.
Efficient Setup:

Avoid taking too long to set up your horse. Practice quick and precise maneuvers to showcase your horse’s best features efficiently.
Ready to elevate your showmanship skills? Dive into my training guide, 'Mastering Showmanship: 5-5-5 Training Guide,' designed to help you master every aspect of showmanship. Join the 5-5-5 Challenge: 5 maneuvers, 5 days a week, for 5 minutes a day, and watch your performance soar!

Precision, preparation, and presentation are key. Show off your dedication and shine in the ring! 🌟🐴

12/07/2024

Nail Your Back & Pivot in Showmanship at Halter! 🐴✨

🚨 Showmanship Tips Alert! 🚨

Want to perfect your backing and pivoting maneuvers in showmanship at halter? Here are some essential tips to help you shine:

Backing Up:

Body Position: Stand in front of your horse, slightly to the side. This allows you to maintain eye contact and guide your horse effectively.
Clear Cues: Use verbal cues like “back” combined with a slight pull and release on the lead shank. Ensure your horse backs up straight and in a controlled manner.
Foot Placement: Watch your horse’s feet to ensure they move in a straight line, avoiding any crossing over or hesitation.
Pivoting:

Set Up Correctly: Position your horse square before starting the pivot. Stand at the horse’s nose to maintain control.
Control Points: Focus on controlling the horse’s head, neck, and shoulders. Use your right hand to guide the horse, ensuring its outside hind pivot foot stays planted.
Smooth Movement: Practice making the pivot smooth and fluid, keeping a consistent rhythm and ensuring the horse doesn’t step out with its pivot foot.
Ready to take your showmanship skills to the next level? Join my 5-5-5 Challenge: 5 maneuvers, 5 days a week, for 5 minutes a day! Learn more in my training guide, 'Mastering Showmanship: 5-5-5 Training Guide,' available for purchase now!

Precision and practice are key. Show off your hard work and dedication in the ring! 🌟🐴

Happy training!

11/07/2024

Mastering the Walk & Trot in Showmanship at Halter! 🐴✨

🚨 Showmanship Tips Alert! 🚨

Ready to refine your skills in showmanship at halter? Here are some essential tips for leading your horse at the walk and trot:

Consistent Pace: Maintain a steady and consistent pace that matches your horse's stride. This helps in presenting a harmonious and well-coordinated picture.
Smooth Transitions: Practice smooth transitions between walk and trot. Use clear and consistent cues to signal your horse, ensuring a seamless change of gait.
Positioning: Stay at your horse's throatlatch, keeping your body aligned with the horse’s direction of travel. This not only looks professional but also helps in maintaining control.
Eye Contact: Keep an eye on the judge without staring. Show confidence and awareness of your surroundings while focusing on your horse’s performance.
Take your showmanship skills to the next level with my 5-5-5 Challenge: 5 maneuvers, 5 days a week, for 5 minutes a day! Learn more in my training guide, 'Mastering Showmanship: 5-5-5 Training Guide,' available for purchase now!

Remember, practice and precision are key. Your dedication will shine through in the ring! 🌟🐴

Happy training!

10/07/2024

Perfect Your Showmanship Setup & Inspection! 🐴✨

🚨 Showmanship Tips Alert! 🚨

Getting ready for the show? Here are essential tips for both setting up and inspection:

Body Position: Stand at your horse’s nose, facing your horse. Keep your body upright and your movements precise.
Hand Position: Use your right hand to guide your horse at the nose, ensuring the left hand stays off the lead shank to avoid penalties. This helps maintain a clean and controlled appearance.
Quarter System for Inspection: Divide your horse into four quarters. As the judge moves, step across, step, and then bring your feet together to maintain alignment.
Presentation: Ensure your horse is square with its front and hind legs, displaying a balanced and conformationally correct stance.

Remember, consistent cues and clear body language are key. Your confidence and precision reflect your dedication. Show off your hard work with pride! 🌟🐴

Ready to take your showmanship skills to the next level? Join our 5-5-5 Challenge: 5 maneuvers, 5 days a week, for 5 minutes a day! Check out my training guide, 'Mastering Showmanship: 5-5-5 Training Guide,' available for purchase now!

Happy training!

Also had to throw in a little throwback picture to showing Bubba in Ranch Showmanship ❤️.