WESTERN RIDING IS wonderful! That is the message from one of our experts — Western rider and instructor Emma Chapman — this month. An increasing number of riders used to the English way of doing things are turning to this style from across the Pond.and cowgirls who spend hours in the great outdoors mustering cattle), while the raised cantle and colossal front horn engender a feeling of security. Having ridden Western a few times on trips to Kentucky in the past, I can attest to the fact that anyone who is having an attack of the nerves at full gallop, during a spook, or while on steep terrain can immediately settle them by placing a hand on the horn. It may not win you prizes for style, but anything that can bolster bravery is surely worth a try. Kick starting our new series on confidence, Emma explains that by training a horse the Western way, too, the rider should ultimately find themselves with more reliable brakes and steering, which, as a consequence, will prompt their own courage to soar. Turn to page 26 to find out more.
