Julie Templeton: some might not like these rule changes, but I do *H&H Plus*

Julie Templeton on how jockeys bene t from changes in the show ring

The new ruling introduced by the British Show Pony Society (BSPS) at the start of the year regarding compulsory body protectors for competitors in working hunter pony classes – both plaited and mountain and moorland – seems to have caused quite a stir.

I can remember back to when chin straps were made compulsory and the outcry that caused at the time. However, now we don’t think twice about the children wearing bulky riding hats that would have been laughed off the showground 30 years ago.

That decision was based on safety and protecting against deadly head injuries; the decision regarding back protectors has been made for similar reasons.

You might also be interested in…

Julie Templeton: some might not like these rule changes, but I do H&H Plus

Rebecca Penny: ‘It’s left many with a sour taste’ H&H Plus

Life lessons: Ian Boylan on patience, pot-washing and hydration

Stuart Hollings: surely we don’t need to experience further upheaval? H&H Plus

Who’s on washing duties? Previous Olympia champion revels in mud during his pre-season holiday