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Little steps for big results: lead-rein producers share their winning formulae for the show ring’s budding stars

In this exclusive series for Horse & Hound subscribers on winter training for different types of show horse, we ask experts to share their tips on producing lead-rein ponies and nurturing their young riders. Here is their advice on everything from finding the right pony to building bonds with each vital part of the trio – all while ensuring a fun and confidence-boosting time in the ring
Alex Robinson Alex Robinson

    • When perfected, the lead-rein trio is hard to take your eyes off. And when a young jockey gets their first taste of success on the lead-rein, the odds of them becoming star show riders or equestrians of the future increases tenfold. The winter months are an ideal time for training the lead-rein pony, with the time to build confidence, iron out any kinks and develop relationships without the pressure of going before the judges.

    Lead-rein classes are a young rider’s first experience of competition and while they are designed to build confidence and support a rider’s development with a handler to help, lead-rein competition is red hot, with a huge amount of work going into the production of the circuit’s most prolific ponies. Lead-rein classes are often the largest on the county show circuit, especially in those assigned to the native breeds, though show pony and pony of hunter type sections are just as strong in their own right.

    Training the lead-rein pony for success in the ring must take several elements into account. The pony must remain calm and polished in any situation – totally unflappable and the perfect guide for their tiny rider on top. The picture of pony, rider and handler must be one of harmony, with the latter part of the trio there simply as a guide.

    Behind shot of lead-rein trio

    The lead-rein trio: handler, pony and little jockey. Credit: Peter Nixon

    H&H speaks to some of the showing world’s leading lead-rein pony producers who have won all the major titles on the circuit and have led ponies to win supremes at the biggest shows in the country.

    Training the lead-rein pony for success in the ring

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    Alex Robinson
    Alex Robinson

    Freelance equestrian journalist
    Born and raised in the Lake District, Alex has grown up on the showing scene. She has qualified and competed ponies at the Royal International, Horse of the Year Show and Olympia and has first-hand knowledge of the current issues in the showing world as well as the horses, ponies and riders who compete in the sport. Alex joined H&H in January 2018 as showing editor, cementing its place as the leading equestrian publication for both showing reports and current showing news in the UK. She moved on in October 2024 to pursue other opportunities, but continues to write for us on a freelance basis.
    Alex Robinson

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