More can be learned in ten minutes of practical demonstration than in hours of theoretical eloquence. When young, one almost certainly has an idol who is copied and dreamt of, one who can do no wrong, and who exemplifies perfection at the sport most favored at the time. Being primarily receptive, children will copy to the last detail, and without difficulty, their hero's actions and mannerisms, and, not having the experience or knowledge to differentiate between the really good and the not so good, they can unwittingly develop bad habits which in later years are extremely hard to eradicate. Jumping careers can, indeed, be made or marred by example at this stage.

It is, therefore, eminently desirable that children should be taught Show Jumping on sound and orthodox lines, resulting in a style that is pleasing to the eye in addition to being effective. It must be remembered that the sport of Show Jumping depends for its existence upon the support of the general public. Without such support, Horse Shows could not be staged and jumping events would not take place. It is, then, up to competitors to ensure that they do, in fact, provide their audience with a harmonious spectacle, coupled with an exhibition of skill.

Juvenile classes can do a great deal to popularize jumping, and it is, of course, from them that it is hoped to find international stars of the future. With this in view, it is well to bear in mind that good style makes for efficiency. The emulation of a recognized artist should be encouraged but any riding peculiarity which may hinder progress, and so success, should be rectified before it develops into a permanent habit.

PLATE 61

The last complete stride before the take-off has started. The rider is very nicely placed, and looking well forward. The seat-bones are in contact with the saddle, which will enable a strong leg to be used if required. The body is inclined forward sufficiently to allow freedom of the loins, and the hands are well separated, giving scope for independent action. In order to be able to make full use of the fingers, and so have a lighter touch with the hand, it would be advisable for the rein to pass between the third and fourth or fourth and little fingers.

PLATE 62

The pony does not appear very willing to cooperate, and is paying little attention to the rider's admirable efforts to produce impulsion and keep up momentum. This may be a matter of temperament, but nevertheless shows clearly the very great importance of free forward movement as the bed-rock of all training.

PLATE 63

The rider has to all intents and purposes become a passenger through leaning too far forward. The pony seems, however, to be quite happy, and perfectly ready to deal with the situation. This position makes strong use of the leg impossible and tends to push the hands too far up the neck, rendering them ineffectual for constructive action.

PLATE 61

PLATE 62

PLATE 63

PLATE 64

The pony is enjoying it all, and shows calm confidence. The near foreleg seems a little late in folding up, but the process should be completed in time. The rider is well with her pony, but tends to pivot round the knee, due to dropping the toe. This makes her general position a little loose. The hands are correct and sympathetic and her attention is directed on the next approach. A pleasing and competent achievement.

PLATE 65

The pony is saying so clearly: "I am doing my very best, why can't you give me some freedom?" A picture of acute discomfort! Courage is an essential attribute in a show jumper, but it can easily seep away from constant, somewhat painful restraint.

PLATE 64

PLATE 65

PLATE 66

The commencement of a good jump, which will be progressively restricted due to the rider's attitude. He is using his knee-joint as a stiff pivot, and putting the weight of the upper part of the body through the hands on to the pony's neck. This will prevent the hands from moving forward smoothly to give rein, and so freedom, to the head and neck later in the jump. The result will almost certainly be loss of impulsion and momentum on landing. The knee-joint must be supple to ensure independent activity of the lower leg, whilst the importance of looking up along the chosen route cannot be over-emphasized.

PLATE 67

The general impression is pleasing and the pony is jumping freely and well. Minor changes in details of the rider's position would lead to greater efficiency. The toe has been turned out, and a little down, with the result that the knee has come away from the saddle, making the seat loose. The back of the calf is pressed against the pony's side, preventing proper use of the lower leg. Also it is inadvisable to carry the whip in this way, as, by so doing, the whip hand cannot operate correctly on the rein.

PLATE 66

PLATE 67

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