Stepping Stone Sporthorses

12/25/2024

Happy Xmas Eve !!

12/21/2024

Looking for a 3’ eq. Horse for a client in her last year showing juniors. Low budget or possible feed lease situation. Or anyone have a horse they need marketed and shown? Would be in training program.

12/21/2024

THE MEXICAN REIN

The Mexican Rein is being used more frequently in the show arena with many top riders making use of it. Recently, Peder Fredricson explained why he chooses to use this method when riding certain horses, inspiring us to take a deep dive into understanding its purpose.

The Mexican Rein, also known as the Driving Rein, is an alternative method of holding the reins that can significantly enhance communication between rider and horse.

In the technique, the rein is passed over the top of the hand and exits between the thumb and forefinger, encouraging a softer and more forward contact, reducing the likelihood of pulling back.

This technique is particularly beneficial for:

- Sensitive horses, as it promotes a more supportive and less restrictive hand.
- Horses that lean on the bit or rush jumps by encouraging better balance and relaxation.
- Riders with stiff hands, offering improved elasticity and suppleness in the connection.

The Mexican Rein is an excellent tool for refining rider biomechanics. It minimises reliance on the reins for balance, reinforcing an independent seat and effective use of the legs and core. This technique is especially useful for riders aiming to retrain muscle memory and establish a more consistent, giving contact.

When first implementing this technique, begin on the flat to familiarise yourself with the feel and effect. Progress gradually to pole work or small fences to assess its impact on your horse’s responsiveness and rhythm.

The Mexican Rein serves as a valuable tool for improving both rider and horse dynamics, making it a great addition to any equestrian training toolkit.

12/21/2024

This is awesome!

BREAKING NEWS ‼️ We are proud to announce we will be taking over management of the USEF Hunter/Jumper horse shows at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park in 2025. The Equine Network and Nilforushan Equisport Events are excited to provide an incredible competition experience once again called “The Oaks” in San Juan Capistrano 🐎

“We are thrilled to announce we have received the licenses for the horse shows to be held at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park, a cherished cornerstone of our equestrian community in California,” shared Ali Nilforushan. “As we take the reins, we are excited to infuse new energy and innovative ideas into the facility, ensuring it continues to thrive as a hub for horse lovers and spectators alike. We look forward to building on the strong foundation and invite everyone to join us in this exciting new chapter.”

Mark your calendars for 2025 at The Oaks ⬇️

→ 4/2-4/6
→ 4/9-4/13
→ 5/7-5/11
→ 5/14-5/18
→ 6/11-6/15
→ 6/18-6/22
→ 6/25-6/29
→ 7/16-7/20
→ 7/23-7/27
→ 9/10-9/14
→ 9/17-9/21

Get ready for the 2025 season on the West Coast unlike any other 🙌

12/18/2024

😂

12/16/2024

We had a great time at the SCHC Jingle Bells Horse show at Del Mar Horsepark!!! Such a fun show with great people and tons of fun 🤩
Congratulations to Paige Nordman and Maverick who competed in the .80 aa jumpers with two 🥈, one 8th place, 1 fifth place and finally a 4th place finish ( out of at least 21) in the $1000 .80 mini prix which gave her some prize money 💰!!!! I am so incredibly proud of you and Maverick and how you handled yourself the entire weekend. So excited for next year!!
Also congratulations to Lola Marks and FD Chips of Brass owned by Howard and Susan Wedertz of Encore Ranch in Temecula for winning the $500 .70 jumper classic and reserve champion for the entire division. You and Brassy make a great team and I love watching you blaze around the course with a smile on your face!!
We also had a great time at the ugly sweater party where my dog Allie and I won champion of the ugly sweater contest 😂 and our barn also placed 5th in the gingerbread house Contest.
I’m sure there’s more to tell but still so tired from the weekend 😂

07/25/2024