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Trainer Websites:
Rick & Heidi Cecil

Jim Dudley

Lynn Palm

Dana Hokana

Cleve Wells

On longe line:

Gord Wadds

Stephen Stephens

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Goals:

1. To approach the designated longeing area and smoothly send your horse out on the circle at a walk
2. To have your horse execute a smooth, 180-degree turn-on-the-haunches reverse.

Benefits: Rather than executing your longe-line performance in distinctly separate parts, you'll make each part flow seamlessly into the next, with the discernible change in your horse's way of going. You'll also make the most of your allotted time, and send a message to the judge that you've done your homework, and have come prepared to win.

Longe-line competition is especially tough, because each horse's performance is short and simple-the smallest details can make a difference in your placing. You have an average of only 1 1/2 minutes to show your horse at all three gaits, in both directions. That means every adjustment you need to make not only takes away from the polished impression of your go, but also reduces the precious time you have to show your horse's best qualities.

I'm going to focus on the body language and whip position I use to keep my young longe-line horses confident and relaxed through these two maneuvers. You'll find this frame of mind is likely to carry through to the rest of your horse's performance, too

1. As you enter the arena, hold the whip and longe line in your (right) leading hand, and the line's coiled excess in your left. Look straight ahead at the spot where you're going to begin the longe circle. Focus on establishing the pace you want your horse to travel at on his first longe circle. (I prefer the walk, because it makes for a smooth start, and keeps my horse relaxed.)
2. When you reach the designated spot, simply let go of the longe line with your right hand, and . . .
3. . . . lead him onto the circle with your left, as you slowly bring the whip out behind him.
4. When it's time to reverse your horse, keep your moves subtle, to help prevent him from making any sudden moves. Here's the cue sequence for a fluid reverse from left-hand circle to right: Say "whoa"; the instant he comes to a stop, simultaneously step to your left (opposite your horse's head), switch the whip into your left hand, let out a loop so you can take hold of the line in your right (the coil stays in your left), and lean slightly toward your horse, to encourage him to shift his weight onto his hindquarters as he turns.
5. As he starts to step around, move the whip slightly toward his outside (right) shoulder; "lead" him into the turn with your right arm, without putting pressure on the longe line. The slack shows your horse's relaxed frame of mind, as well as his level of training, and your control.
6. As he takes that last step of the reverse, bring your whip behind your horse's body, to encourage him to walk out of the turn, without pausing. Note that my horse barely raised her head throughout - and she's ready to complete a winning go.

PHJ:  Our thanks to Stephen for his participation in this study on Longe Line!