Hi...I have been asked to answer this question for you... <HI> <HI> <HI>
Without seeing your horse work it is very hard to answer this question so I am going to make the assumption that this gelding is very smart and came along very quick since you say he came along so fast in a 30 period.
I am going to suggest to you that it is time that the "draw rig" come off...and put a leather noseband tiedown on him fairly loose so he can adjust to it. From what you are saying (and I am understanding...) that the gelding is having a hard time
getting in the ground at each barrel as the speed factor has hit him. The draw rein situation is tucking your horse up so much at the poll that in the process you have so much control of the front end, you have lost the control of the rear end.
The tiedown will allow your gelding to "brace" against his own body per say and allow you the opportunity to engage his hindquarters before the turn. You should be able to obtain better position before the turn. Also make sure that this gelding has ample room in the pocket and you are not allowing him to "point" his turn too soon---if that happens you will automatically loose your pocket and he will take that stride he should be putting in at that point and have to physically put that step in on the back of the barrel OR take one more stride past the barrel.
Also...when doing your slow work....make sure! that you do not allow this horse to start from the alley at one speed and then 3-4 strides away from the barrel increase speed even if he is anxious to go work....that is what I call acceleration before the turn and when letting a horse (especially a horse of his size) do this consistantly, you will feel him push on your hands at the beginning of the turn in a place where the horse should "fold" to the pressure of your hands as you lift and pick up. Remember when working a horse, especially a young horse...that if you go one speed to a barrel in slow work, that a stride from the barrel you need to "downshift" a gear...by doing that you will tell your horse it is time to engage his hocks and get ready for the turn.
Hope some of this helps....please let me know how you are doing... <HI> <HI>
Laura Schumann
Lauras Ladder to Success Barrel Clinics
"I Believe" Tour 2009
