How to Avoid a Slipping Girth

Photo by Dubai Racing Club | Andrew Watkins

There's been a lot of press coverage given to the amazing win by California Chrome in the Group 1 Dubai World Cup (the world's richest race) at the Dubai World Cup meeting on March 26, 2016.

Not just because it was a great race but especially because of the "wardrobe malfunction" you can see in the above photo. The girth slipped way back and jockey Victor Espinoza did a fantastic job to stay cool and balanced while urging his mount to the wire.

This story is a great example of the importance of the following tips for all riders:

1. check, check, check your girth (see how and when below);
2. make sure the saddle fits well;
3. if your horse's conformation means the girth might slip back, use a breastplate; if forward, consider a crupper; and
4. keep all coat conditioner and show-shine-type products well away from any area you don't want slippage to occur. Under and around the saddle and girth is an obvious spot, behind the ears is another.

Finally, if your girth does start to slip (and assuming you're not racing for the Dubai World Cup), halt your horse, dismount, reset your saddle and girth up securely. 

You and your horse will benefit from this simple saddling routine every time you ride:

1. do up the girth, gently but firmly;
2. lead your horse a few paces, check the girth; and
3. check it again just before you get on.

Share your tips and tales in the comments below.

PS:  I like to stretch each foreleg and my horses seem to appreciate it.  Comment below if you do or don't.

Take care out there.

Buy Joanne's book for more great information