"The Suitable Mount"
Author: Mike Ragland
Chairman USPC Horse Management Committee
Maryland Region - Regional Instruction Coordinator

I have often tried to cope with the concept of "suitable mount" [as referenced in USPC publications and policies] whether in testings[ratings] , lessons or at rallies. I sugget that this is not a single dimension definition. It is a matter of understanding the relationship of the partnership of horse and rider. So here are my key points.

1. Compatibility/Control - the horse must be manageable by the child. A spirited 16 had gelding is not waht a six year old girl should have to deal with - she is not going to survive long enough "to grow into the horse."

2. The horse must be happy doing what the rider is doing - the horse is under the child's control, knows what is expected of her and enjoys pleasing the rider.

3. The horse is capable of performing the acts - do not ask an overweight, 20+ year old horse to jump 3'6". Do not ask the horse to run at 425 mm.

4. If the child can not control the horse, if the horse will not willingly do what is an essential part of the activity, if the horse is EVER UNSAFE then the animal is simply NOT SUITABLE.

A green rider on a green horse is not suitable.

If the rider is afraid of the horse - the horse is unsuitable.

If the horse insists on taking away control from the rider than this horse is unsuitable for this rider.

U.S.P.C. Policy Statement 135 - Mounts