What tack is that?

Equestricare is very excited to bring this workshop to you together with Off the Track WA Community Fund, an Initiative of RWWA.

“Just because we can put it on a horse doesn’t mean it’s suitable for that horse.”

This workshop will explore the differences between racing equipment and tack used in equestrian disciplines, including saddle fit and bit choice. Owners learn how poor tack choices can cause discomfort, behavioural issues, and retraining setbacks.  The aim of this workshop is to help owners make informed, responsible choices and create a smoother transition into new careers.

10:30 – 10:45
Welcome and Introduction

• What is tack, and why do we use it?

• How racing equipment differs from everyday riding equipment

• How equipment can influence comfort, movement, behaviour and performance

• Why OTT horses may need their tack reassessed as their bodies change during retraining

10:45 – 11:15
From racetrack to riding arena

Explore the equipment horses are familiar with during racing and how it compares with their new careers.

• Racing saddles versus general-purpose and dressage saddles

• Racing bridles, bits and reins

• Nosebands, tongue ties, blinkers, visors and other racing equipment

• Breastplates, martingales and other auxiliary equipment

• Why certain equipment is used in racing

• What needs to change when a horse transitions to a different discipline?

Morning Tea 11:15 – 11:30 

11:30 – 12:45am
Saddle Fit – More then just finding the right size

• Basic anatomy of the horse’s back and saddle-bearing area

• How saddle design and fit affect the horse’s movement and how a horse’s changing musculature affects saddle fit

• Tree width, gullet clearance, panel contact, balance and saddle length

• Girths and girth pressure

• Recognising common saddle-fitting problems

• Saddle pads, half pads and corrective shims: what they can and cannot fix

Lunch 12:45 – 1:15

1:15pm – 3:00pm
Bit’s, Bridles and Communication

• Help owners understand how different bits work rather than simply which bit is considered mild or strong.

  • Basic anatomy of the horse’s mouth

  • How bits communicate pressure and release

  • Snaffles, leverage bits and common racing bits

  • Mouthpiece design, thickness, joints and cheekpieces

  • Why bit and bridle fit is as important as bit type

  • Nosebands and their effects on comfort and function

  • Bitless bridles: how they work

Date – Sun 26th September
Time – 10:30am – 3:00pm
Venue – Quenda Glade Equine, Gidgegannup
Cost – $80pp

25% discount for ETAA members and 50% discount Equestricare students and graduates, GEA and GDC Members

Free for OTTWA passport holders.
Includes morning tea