Let's Talk Obstacles: Episode 10. The Jug

 

CDC Besita at the Jug

The jug is a deceptively difficult obstacle. Seems easy, right? Impeccable transition, square halt, remain motionless. Sure, sure it is, especially if you bump the table, drop the jug, your horse steps backwards, or..you dump the contents of the jug all over your brand new show jacket and scare your horse (more common than one might imagine!).

The rule book says this:

Description.  A jug sits on top of a small table or other platform that is at least 1.2-m (4-ft) high. A manufactured table is not required; a table-like platform may be constructed of common materials (e.g., hay bales, sacks of grain, etc.) The jug must have a handle. The jug must be placed in the same position for each competitor.

Execution.  The rider approaches the table in the prescribed gait, halts with the rider’s leg even with the table, raises the jug above her/his head, and replaces the jug on the table.  The obstacle must be approached from the numbered side. The rider may stop at any position around the table as long as the obstacle is approached from the numbered side. The horse must depart at the same gait as it approached the obstacle.  If the jug is dropped, a member of the ground crew will hand the jug to the riders competing at the Introductory (L1) level. Novice (L2/L3) level riders must dismount, retrieve the jug, remount and replace the jug on the table, or may request permission to pass and receive a 0 score.  Intermediate (L4) through Masters (L7) riders must dismount, retrieve the jug, remount, and replace the jug; failure to do so will result in disqualification. 

Assessment Criteria (EOH).  The Judge will evaluate the manner in which the horse approaches and remains immobile next to the table without showing any fear and trusting the rider’s use of aids.  The jug, when placed on the table, must remain upright.  Any jarring movement against the table will result in a lower score. Intermediate (L4) through Masters (L7) level riders will receive a higher score for approaching the table at canter with a good canter-to-halt transition. 

The Jug is present in almost every EOH competition I have participated in. It is difficult to get a great score, unless you do it like the picture I posted above (best score I have ever received on the jug..thanks Besita!).

If you're struggling with the details of the jug; click this link. Trish Hyatt has an entire working equitation simplified program and just posted a jug challenge!

Enjoy!

https://we-simplified.com/jug-challenge