Arena Use

The arena is a fenced or covered area et aside for training horses. When it is not covered, the term riding ring may also be used. The arena is a rectangular and usually measures 20 metres wide by 40 metres long. Letters are placed on the sides as markers. It is important to note that A and C are the center markers for the short sides and B and E at the centers of the long sides. The letters H, M, K, and F are situated 6 metres from each corner. The center point inside the arena is X.

The track is the part of the arena where the horses normally work. The outside track is that which follows the walls and the inside track is about 3 metres inside that. When the rider is on the track with the center of the arena to his right, he is said to be on the RIGHT REIN or HAND. When the center of the arena is to his left he is on the LEFT REIN or HAND.

Priority of Gait

The priority for use of the outside track is given to the horse at the fasted gait Therefore the canter has priority on the outside track over the trot or walk. The rider at the slower gait should move to the inside track to allow the other, faster rider to pass.

Priority of Direction

When riders are working at the same gait, the priority for the outside track is given to those on the left hand. Those working on the right hand would move to the inside track before encountering the other rider. They pass LEFT shoulder to LEFT shoulder.

The Inside Track and the Walk

A rider working at the walk should remain on the inside track unless he is alone in the arena or all riders are walking. This is most clearly demonstrated buy a rider cooling down his horse or working on a long rein. A rider who halts to adjust equipment, etc…, should be completely off the tracks and in the center of the arena.

NOTE:

If you are having difficulty with your horse, please inform other riders in the ring that you are having problems so they may take the necessary safety precautions.

Riders who have continuous problems controlling their horse, or those who have horses with behavioral issues will be asked to book a riding time when the area’s are empty OR will be asked to ride under supervision of a coach until the issues are resolved.

Safety for riders, horses and guest is a priority at Summerwinds Stables so please do your part in maintaining our hight safety standards.

Happy riding to all!