Mounted search and rescue

[Pennbo <pennbo@bbv.net>]

"Confined space" should be relevant to your area and situations. If you 
are thinking of what you can do to train your personal mount then you 
want to work all the variables. If you are just wanting to pass a test 
somewhere you will definitely need to find out what is meant by that 
term. I would work on the first one- then you'll be ready for anything!

Confined spaces- real world:
Turning between parked cars/trailers
Turning on a medium or narrow trail lined with trees
Turning at a dead end trail - cliffs, drop-off, vehicles, structure 
blocking trail, rock slide, downed trees, snake
Turning on a narrow trail with uphill one side, drop off other side (or 
worst case scenario solid sharp cliff edge)
Turning around while on a grid search without leaving pattern
Turning while on a foot bridge- unsafe conditions ahead, etc

I'm sure there are many more and each has a different 'confined space' 
requirement and feel. Recreate in your training area whatever obstacle 
you are working on- to the best of your ability. Then work it until both 
you and the horse are confident in the manuever. I find that sensitivity 
to leg cues is important in tight turns and I work to keep those cues 
light and immediate all year.

I'm sure others have ideas along this line as well. What do the rest of 
you find the most important aspect of training for tight turns?

Chris Pennington