horse riding

Sweet Revenge

GINNIN HANDLE, A.K.A “BLUE DUCK” was on a roll at the ranch horse show held during the World Championship Ranch Rodeo in November[2003] in Amarillo.  With the ease of an athlete, he carried his owner, … read

Why teeth matter

I was teaching a clinic in outback Australia and some people brought a coming four-year-old horse to the clinic. They had competed with the horse a competition called Camp Drafting which consisted of a lot … read

Ask Martin: Head Throwing Fix?

Question: “I pulled a gelding off a kill lot in OK about a year ago. He is about 10-years-old, broke, and friendly (although it took a while to gain his trust). An old injury to … read

Bits: Making the Best Choice

A note from Martin about bit selection   There are different features of a bit that cause it to function differently and, depending on the horse, certain features may be more favorable than others. Regardless … read

Ask Martin: Width of a Spade Mouthpiece

Question: “I have a question in regards to spade bits and smaller horses. I’ve made four bridle horses. The one that will be number five is an 800-pound half-Arab mare that is 14 hands on … read

Ask Martin: Working a Deaf Horse

Question: “I’m working a horse at the moment that is a 3-year-old deaf mare.  I’ve just started her and she’s going nicely, but I’m having a hard time getting through to her. She frights so easily and … read