Books

Second hand. Drawing upon his vast experience as both rider and trainer, Stephen Hadley has written this comprehensive show jumping handbook primarily for the ever growing number of novice competitors who form the grass roots of the sport. This book gives such riders the opportunity to do what might otherwise be impossible – to learn from a professional trainer of international repute.

Choosing the right horse, testing the unbroken youngster and judging the likely resale value of an animal who might not live up to his promise as a jumper are covered in detail. The author then explains the correct position of the rider in the saddle, the benefit of exercises on the lunge and work without stirrups, and the use of the legs and hands.

The important chapter on ground work and basics includes the rider’s feeling for rhythm and pace, the difference between pace and impulsion, lengthening and shortening, transitions, flexion, the rein back and the half halt. The chapter on early jumping covers trotting to fences, placing poles, bounce fences, the use of fillers, the rider’s position in the air and the first steps in cantering to fences.

Using sequences of photographs specially taken under his direction, the author shows how to tackle a simple combination, and goes on to explain how to train a horse to jump ditches and water. He offers advice on all aspects of going to shows and explains the art of riding combinations and related distances, going against the clock, and knowing when to upgrade a horse. There is a good deal of useful information on running a show jumping yard and how to provide adequate facilities with a minimum of outlay.

The author also explains the workings of the British Show Jumping Association, the benefits of affiliation, the role of the course builder, and this authoritative and highly readable book concludes with an assessment of 14 successful international riders.

Hardback.