fao Epona UK again...........

[Caz&Irena]

Dear Epona

I went to the Ellices Farm Show today and am now completely sold on western riding!! I think that I saw you judging but you seemed so busy that I didn't get a chance to talk plus hubby and mum in law decided it was getting too cold and windy and retreated back to the car! Could you please let me know how to go about getting a saddle fitted for my horse. Is there a western saddler in the area? I would be very grateful if you could give me some advice as I really want one asap!!!!! I also noticed that some people were riding with an ordinary snaffle bit but with a leather curb attached to the rings I assume that I could do that until I learn how to ride with a western bit am I right? Anyway a very enjoyable morning (I had to leave early when the whinging started!) I can't wait to learn more!

Best wishes

Gillian

[Epona UK]

Hi Gillian,
glad you liked it, my word wasn't it wet. If you would like to e mail me, I'll give you my phone number and we can have a chat, I can also give you some contact info re saddles etc. I can also explain about the strap on the snaffle bridles.

[Tammy]

Now we are curious! Please explain about the curb strap on a regular snaffle (loose ring, egg butt?). I live in western country and I have never seen this before; horses are generally started on a loose ring and then go to a shanked bit.

[Epona UK]

Well Tammy, the strap I mentioned is indeed a curb strap, but only because it fits the bill of what is required of it. It does not act as a curb in any way. The reason it is used on a snaffle bit, is because there are occaisions when the bit could be pulled right through the mouth, having a strap linking the bit rings underneath the chin stops this from happening. It is very important that the reins are attached above this strap, otherwise the strap would be brought in contact with the jaw, which is a DQ over here. Hope this answers your question :D

[Caz&Irena]

Epona UK

I have just tried to e-mail you but it says that you have specified that you don't want to receive e-mails from this board! Could you mail me?

Thanks!!

Gillian

[Epona UK]

I never knew that, funny stuff this technology !!

[Epona UK]

Have tried to e mail you from the board, not sure whether it worked:(