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Side pass and backing obstacles: benefits beyond the show ring. Part 1

1 min read

The popularity of obstacle disciplines is growing – Working Equitation, Mountain Trail, Show Trail, Ranch trail, Extreme Cowboy. 
Riders tell me the appeal of obstacles is a change and challenge from dressage circles or the western pleasure rail. Others are opting out of jumping for a less risky challenge.

As a judge, I evaluate horses and riders backing through corridors and side passing over rails and logs in various configurations.  The common denominator across the disciplines is style – finesse, flow and efficiency, often plus or minus a menu of penalties.