November Tests
This month's tests are Test 4: Walk Test 3, Test 10: Trot Test 5, Rising Stars Lead Rein Test and Freestyle Test.
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This month we return to lateral work. We revisit leg yield and rein back, and we introduce shoulder-in for the first time in Walk Test 3. In Establishing Trot Test 3, trot shoulder-in is introduced. Shoulder-in is a wonderful exercise - it introduces collection and really helps with lightness and flexibility.
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Walk Test 3 is a short test, beginning with a steeper leg yield from the track to the centre-line. This is followed by shoulder-in and rein-back, then repeat on the other rein.
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Trot Test 5 begins with leg yield in rising trot from track to centreline, on both reins. Then after a long rein stretch in walk, a small amount of shoulder-in is ridden in a slow sitting trot in each direction.
Rising Stars Lead Rein Test has its own separate mark scheme, and aims to encourage quiet, beautiful riding and considerate attitude to the horse. It is designed for young riders or those with special needs, but can be entered by anybody.
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Freestyle Test is an opportunity to show off what you and your horse enjoy doing. You can design your own test or ride any test that you are working towards. Choose 10 movements within the test that you would like to be assessed on, and write them down in the sheet provided. Each movement is judged on synchronisation and aids (this is measured by how you look at one with the horse, with invisible aids and elegant riding) and correctness and accuracy (basically how well the movement is executed). The test can be ridden with or without music.
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Each test is available for a small arena (20m x 40m) or a large arena (20m x 60m). If using a large arena, instructions are included on how to convert it to a small arena, using the existing letters to ride the test.
Each test comes with an advice sheet, which explains how to ride the movements.
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Please click on the link below to download your chosen test.
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Rising Stars Lead Rein Test 20 x 40 arena
Rising Stars Lead Rein Test 20 x 60 arena
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Freestyle Test
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Sentient Riding Marking Criteria
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