| Author | Message | ||
     Angela Cherrington Username: Angelac Registered: 10-2003 |
The indoor surface is a big factor but many sources state that the shetland pony is the strongest equine for it's size and can pull twice it's own weight, whereas a shire can only pull it's own weight. Shetlands do seem to me to cope quite well at IHDT as long as the surface is not too deep/mobile. | ||
| Sue Starnes Username: Suestarnes Registered: 10-2006 |
I think it might be worth adding that IHDT is lots more exciting for ponies than showing, that there is lots of turning (hopefully at speed) and that the groom can be essential in ensuring that the turnout stays upright! Even when sitting side by side a bit of judicial leaning can save the day. I love seeing Shetlands competing indoors, when they are fit and the surface allows they can be exhilarating to watch. Good luck with your Shetland and I can only echo what Fiona said - go to your nearest event where you are sure to find some very friendly and helpful people. | ||
| Fiona Powell Username: Fionap Registered: 12-2003 |
Hi, welcome to our sport! If your big Shetland is fit and enjoys his work, I'd have thought you and your groom are lightweight enough to be competitive in a two or four-wheeler. I'm not an expert on this, but make sure you have a well-balanced lightweight vehicle that's fitted to your pony. (A well built vehicle might be heavier than a "cheap" one, but can be easier for the pony to pull because it's better balanced.) Ask your instructor/other people who compete small ponies... and get the vehicle made to fit your pony correctly - very important. Some of my small-pony drivers say that deep going in the arena is tiring and slows them down a lot more than the bigger ponies but my venue dampens the surface for driving events and this makes everyone go smoothly. You can't compete in IHDT without a groom on board and in a position to leap to your aid, should you need it - so he/she must either sit or stand behind you or sit next to you. Janet Sycamore is a very useful contact 01787 313405. She competes a mini-Shetland pair and a single Shetland in IHDT and in the show ring. I don't know where you are, but go to your local IHDT event and chat to people there - we are a very friendly helpful lot! (We and Janet will be at Wix, near Mannningtree, Sat, 13 Oct.) | ||
| Guest Username: New Registered: 12-2006 |
Is it complusory to have a groom riding on the vehicle for Shetlands? I am new to IHDT and I have looked at the rules on this website and it states 'Grooms may stand on the back step for all phases'. Might the groom also wait by the door to accompany the pony back to its lorry? I understand it would be in the interests of safety to have a groom with the pony at all times, but would it be acceptable to drive the Shetland safely in the indoor school with the doors shut? I have driven in show classes and from what I have seen, Shetlands do their show with just the driver, with a groom standing by to hold their head when waiting in line. Please advise me. | ||
| IHDTC Office Username: Ihdtcoffice Registered: 01-2003 |
We have no objection to small ponies competing indoors, in fact we encourage it as much as possible, but please remember to check the school surface before competing, it needs to be hard not deep sand, little ponies will find some surfaces very hard going and this must be taken into consideration. Also the amount of weight to be pulled. If my maths are correct whip and groom combined weight is around 135kg which converts to around 21 stone plus the weight of the vehicle, which seems a lot. There is a ratio calculation of weight of pony to weight of carriage, whip & groom but I can't recall it, but think it is: on road surface pony can comfortably pull its own weight, but off road only three quarters of own weight. Anyone confirm or know the correct ratio of animal weight to pulling weight PLEASE continue with this thread as it will be helpful to other drivers. Enjoy the coming season Good Luck. Rita (IHDT UK Secretary) | ||
| Guest Username: New Registered: 12-2006 |
Hi, I have a 42" standard Shetland and would like to compete. My other half would be my groom - I weight about 60 kg and my partner weighs about 75 kg. What type of carriage should I be looking for? I am concerned about how much weight my little chap can be expected to pull. januaryscott@aol.com |