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Are you tired of doing the same old tests at every schooling show? Here's a chance to spice up your life, or at least your riding! Aim High Equestrian Park is hosting the April 20th schooling show, and included in their slate of tests is one called "Prix Caprilli".
The test is named after the Italian rider Federico Caprilli (1868-1907). Caprilli realized that the "backward seat" style of riding was, in fact, a hindrance to the horse's natural trajectory over a fence. He advocated the "forward seat," which allowed for the rider to remain in balance with the horse. The Caprilli riding system is the foundation for show jumping as we know it today.
A Prix Caprilli test is a dressage test that includes jumps. The tests vary; there is no governing body copyrighting Prix Caprilli tests. Generally the tests have the same movements as a Training or First Level test, but there are movements which ask the horse to trot or canter over single jumps of varying heights. Emphasis is not on the overall jumping style of the horse, but on his relaxation, obedience, and evenness of pace. Judging is based on the same qualities of performance as to the horse's gaits and transitions, with the same scoring scale.
The test is ridden in the standard 20mX60m ring, with the approximate time allowed of 4 1/2 minutes. An ordinary snaffle is required, and the rider can choose to ride in either a jumping or dressage saddle. Errors over the course will be penalized. After the second refusal at a jump, the rider goes on to the next movement. Marks will be at the judge's discretion. Failure to move on after the second refusal will be counted as an error of course.
A sample Prix Caprilli test is shown at right. If it looks like fun to you, send in your entry ! For more information on the Prix Caprilli test at the schooling show, contact Beth at 404-8144.
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