Top Marks – The First Challenge

Top Marks – The First Challenge

Featuring Kelly Marks, Dr Rosie Jones McVey, Jim Goddard

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This episode of Top Marks documents the initial activities and challenges faced by a team preparing for a horse demonstration event in Dorset. The programme focuses on assessing horses for suitability, addressing behavioural issues, and introducing young horses to the demonstration environment.

The episode begins with the team’s arrival in Dorset and their initial tasks of settling their own horses. A key part of the preparation involves selecting two horses from the public to participate in the evening’s demonstration, chosen from three potential candidates. The trainers carefully assess these horses to ensure they are fit, well, and sound. The episode introduces Solo Hit, a three-year-old mare with no prior training and a tendency to wander, and details the initial handling she undergoes. The programme also addresses the challenge presented by Questionnaire (Quest), an 18-year-old mare with a severe loading problem. Preparations for the evening demonstration include acclimating a young horse, Harry, to the arena and assessing his reaction to simulated audience sounds.

Viewers will witness the team’s approach to assessing and handling different horses. Solo Hit is introduced to a “join up” exercise to evaluate her temperament and establish a connection. She is also gradually introduced to a roller and saddle. The episode outlines the plans to assist Questionnaire’s owner with her loading issue, including the use of panels. The programme also discusses various methods for loading difficult horses. Harry’s introduction to the arena involves simulated applause and music to gauge his reaction to the show environment.

Key Learning Points:

Understanding a horse’s history and temperament: This is crucial when introducing new experiences or addressing behavioural issues. Solo Hit’s history of being “overhandled” and her wandering habits influence the approach to her initial training. Questionnaire’s loading problem highlights the impact of past negative experiences on a horse’s behaviour.
The importance of patience and gradual introduction: When working with young or troubled horses, patience, gradual introduction, and positive reinforcement are essential. Solo Hit’s introduction to tack is done slowly and carefully to build her confidence. The team’s approach to helping Questionnaire’s owner with her loading issue also emphasises a positive outcome.
Simple and practical methods: These can often be the most effective in horse training. The example of loading a pony with a gate demonstrates that a calm and uncomplicated approach can yield better results than force. The use of panels for loading Questionnaire also highlights a practical solution.

Website Tags: horse training, Intelligent Horsemanship techniques, demonstrations, behaviour, loading, young horse, join-up, positive reinforcement, welfare.

Top Marks – The First Challenge