I feel a lot of us ---me, anyway, --- need to re-learn how to see.
I do believe this is one of the best statements I have seen.
Because I
see something quite different than many of you see.
I do agree that Fiona's horse was BTV slightly for much of the test. However, I do not
see that position forced on the horse at any point in that video. I would guess that the horse has a huge spacing (4 fingers or so) in her throat latch which allows a horse to naturally be able to flex at the poll more easily.
Beginning riders and horses are penalized more for BTV because at that level it is usually a training and rider error issue, not a result of the horses conformation and/or sensitive nature.
I also
see a very well moving horse with excellent gaits. That is
nature encouraged (through proper training) and rewarded by a very talented rider.
I also
see no tight reins, only a very gentle contact. Stop and study the video at certain points and you will see the rider give a slight release of the rein at times.
In fact, I
see this horse very much in self carriage and the rider consistently encouraging the horse to reach out for the reins a bit more.
Self carriage does not mean the reins have to be floppy! Self carriage is developed through proper riding to strengthen the horses topline. This is why horses shape will change over time.
Visualize the general outline of a QH and the general outline of a Friesian and you will
see why it is easier for a Friesian to do upper level Dressage than it is for many QH.
I have been through the "L" judging program and was
taught to see what judges are looking for and judging on.
Has anyone ever seen a horse perform the higher level movements in the pasture? I have seen horses do them and they are often BTV with no bit, no saddle, no rider.