My daughter is participating in a troop drill team demonstration this weekend. Her Pony Club team has been practicing since January and has given a number of demonstrations over the summer. Apart from learning to excute the pattern, turnout is very important. All the ponies must be scrupuously clean with manes and tails groomed and braided. And the rider's grooming must be perfect too. This means no hair flowing in the breeze. About Beauty Guide Julyne Derrick gives instructions on how to do a french braid. To tame your own mane under your helmet this is the perfect solution. Just tuck the end of the braid into a net and secure it with a pony tail holder for sleek, paying-attention-to-all-the-details look required in the show ring. To braid your horse's tail, follow the same instructions starting at the top of the tail, rather than the crown of a head!

Photo 2006 K. Blocksdorf