Re: Riding Downhill (Long)

["Jan Mutchler" <jmutchler@h2net.net>]

Ray:  I had the privilege a number of years ago to study under Harold Black
at his school in Mexico and to also ride with the Mexican Cavalry.  Mr.
Black did teach the forward position in deep descents, and the cavalry
riders also rode forward in the descent.  I don't know if its easier for the
horse, or not.  I do think it is difficult for the rider.  Mr. Black had us
really flexed at the hip and bent low.  I was a lot younger then, stronger,
and my balance was excellent.  Not quite the case now.
Jan Mutchler
Littleton, CO
-----Original Message-----
From: Ray & Barb Elliston <raymondj@travel-net.com>
To: Ridecamp <ridecamp@endurance.net>
Date: Sunday, February 07, 1999 5:45 PM
Subject: Riding Downhill (Long)


> I have also seen a photo of a US Army cavalryman on exercise in the 1930s
>descending a steep slope and the rider is forward, as described by Black.
I
>have tried both methods and do believe the horse is more comfortable in the
>descent when I adopt a forward position, however I would be most interested
>in other opinions and experiences, as no other rider in this area, that I
>have spoken to about it, seems to have heard of using a forward position
>when descending.
>
>Ray
>RR3 Ashton ON Canada
>