Training Snaffle
Saturday, November 13th, 2010French Link D-ring Snaffle?
I just started riding my TWH in a french link d-ring snaffle. He has been having training problems where he was evading the bit when asked to slow down(In a normal port and shank walking horse bit). I have only ridden him in it once and so far so good. I'm not getting my hopes up because, it may be a fluke(good day) or he was like "What's this in my mouth?!" and it distracted him from his normal habits. Either way...that story is for another day.
But my question is, if this bit does work out, do you think I will get penalized for not using the tradition Walking Horse bit in the show ring. I don't show performance with the odd shoes. Just regular shod, in fact, I show him barefoot. I don't compete at high levels either. What do you think? Please don't assume if you don't know.
Thanks!
Summer: You're right. 
Abbey: I ride english
Unfortunately, our rulebook has no information about legal bits for walking horses..or non-trotting classes.
It also depends on the age of your horse - under 4 you are fine in MOst shows
over 4 you will generally need to have a shanked bit
Are you showing in a TWH affilited show? Under which HIO?
Most open shows have looser rules, than breed shows
Call the show manager before going, and ask what the rules are