"Please help! My name is Georgina and I am 13-years-old. I am an active Pony Club member with the Crickhowell Pony Club in Brecon, and have been riding since I was was four. My problem is with my pony, Cariad. He is a four-year-old Welsh Sec D, standing at 14.2hh. He does not buck or rear, but he doesn't have any brakes either. I ride him in a loose ring Neue Schule snaffle with a central lozenge. He doesn't bolt either - he just seems to get over-excited, which I guess is partly his age. Could you perhaps recommend a bit that might help my braking that isn't too severe? When we tried a rubber pelham, he didn't like it at all. He didnt rear, but the threat was there and he has never done this before. He rides brilliantly in company and in traffic, and he doesn't need a flash as he doesn't open his mouth, but when we are trying to school he just seems to get faster and faster and doesn't listen. Jumping sends him totally crazy and after about three jumps, I'm galloping and the steering has gone as well. It's such a shame as he seems very bold and never refuses." Georgina

H&C blogger and Olympic eventer Sharon Hunt replies: "Thanks very much for getting in touch. It sounds to me like it's not just the bit that you need to think about. You're certainly right that Cariad is still young and this may be part of the reason for his exuberance! Nevertheless, it also sounds like Cariad is running away with excitement or nerves so it's really important for you to be relaxed with him and not to hold on to him too much. I also think you should do lots of exercises to keep him relaxed. I think it would be a good idea to use lots of circles and grids, as opposed to single fences, at a trot to get him to slow down when jumping. Be careful not to use too much leg, particularly if he's bold. Also it might be worth checking his back and saddle to make sure he's not uncomfortable in his back as this may cause him to run. Going back to the bit, you could try him in a Neue Schule Tranz Universal - a three-ring bit, which you might find beneficial. I also think it's important to get plenty of help with him - it's excellent that you're an active pony club member.

Best of luck with Cariad - have fun!

Best wishes,
Sharon"