This article first appeared in the August 2020 digital edition of Equestrian Life. To see what’s in the current issue, click here.
A very positive, confident entry with good positioning for a right hand turn. Great Novice work!
© Roger Fitzhardinge
10 tips for riding the Novice tests
By EQ Life / Roger Fitzhardinge
Are you planning to ride your first Novice test? Whether you’re working towards getting out and competing once live competitions restart, or have entered Equestrian Life’s monthly online competition, these tips are for you!
There are three Equestrian Australia (EA) Novice level tests — Novice 2A, 2B and 2C. The purpose of this level is to confirm that the horse demonstrates correct basics, and in addition to the requirements of Preliminary level, has developed the thrust to achieve improved balance and “throughness” — all while maintaining a more consistent contact with the bit.
Roger explains that to win a Novice test, all movements must be good. “If you make a low mark in one movement, it’s very difficult… there aren’t enough movements to regain marks. So you need to make certain that everything is done calmly and easily.”
We catch up with Roger to see what other tips he has for riding a great Novice level test…
Read the full article in the August 2020 issue of Equestrian Life magazine here.
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