Back again about Blu, English riding, and Gymkhana...help!

Okay, I have already asked questions about English riding. I want to teach Blu to ride English still. I also want to perform in Gymkhana events. Is this possible? I am not sure if Blu is willing or can learn to jump. Well, he jumps of course but I don't know if he can do English riding for 4-H. I tried Western and it was really hard. He is one of those Get-Down-And-Run type of horses. He is high-maintainence and possible proud-cut. But the rpud-but thing isn't an issue. I just need more pointers and info here. I won't really be able to work with Boo much at all until Spring when he goes back to the fairgrounds...any ideas on anything??? Thanks...

Gaming really has a way to muck up all other training that you have done with your horse if you are not careful. If I were you, I would focus my training on english/and or western and practice all of the required maneuvers (all gaits, proper attire/rider position, correct leads, backing, etc). I would not ever practice any gaming events until your horse has had your english and western riding down solid for some time. Really, if you master what is required in 4H english/western, you can apply that to the gaming and do pretty well.

Good luck.

Well every year in June of July, can't remember, I participate in the Pioneer Days Rodeo grand entry. We do the charge, fishhook, figure eight, pinwheel, posting the colors, and the serpentine routine. We always have a hard time finding riders. I am always participating for wure but will that hurt Blu's training? He did it this year and I sorta had a hard time with him running through the bit and all. He should be better next year....I am so frustrated lol

If it were me, I would not practice any of those events that are held at the rodeo on a regular basis. I would focus my training on softening to the bit, suppling, and basic english/western riding maneuvers. Practicing your basic maneuvers, softening, and suppling will end up helping you have control and a calmer horse when you do participate in the rodeo.

Participating in such a high adreniline activity may have some negative effect on your training initially, but if you only do it once a year it should not have huge impact.

Over time, if you are consistent and calm with your training, you may be able to participate a little more often in gymkana type events without lasing negative effects.

All I know is that I have seen too many horses that do only gymkana who: run through the bit, run around with their heads up in the air, don't stop, run out of control, and have no basic balance or understanding of how to move properly. That is why I would suggest to focus training away from that and just do that as a fun extra on the side.