Should young children be riding in Wilkie and beval bits?
The use of the Wilkie snaffle and beval bits in children’s mini (lead-rein and first ridden) classes has once again sparked debate in the showing world.
In the first ridden class at this year’s Horse of the Year Show (5-9 October), all bar two ponies were wearing these types of snaffles, as were many lead-rein contenders.
The use of the Wilkie and beval bit prompted much ringside debate.
“Even when standing still, the ponies were overbending, while some children never released the reins at rest,” said one former breeder.
“I fail to see why a true child’s pony — especially a lead rein — should have to be ridden in something which is technically a gag.”
The Wilkie bit and the beval snaffle feature fixed holes to which to attach the cheek pieces and reins, thus applying greater pressure on the poll than an eggbutt snaffle.
Research conducted by bit specialist Neue Schule confirmed this action on the poll when the reins and cheek pieces are fastened to the fixed holes on the beval bit.
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Extensive tests were carried out by the Neue Schule team using two sensors – one applied to the cheek piece, the other to the rein.
The recorded tension was transmitted to a central computer and a rating was calculated to show how much poll pressure each type of bit created.
The beval bit was given a plus one rating for poll pressure, whereas an eggbut snaffle was given a zero rating and the hanging cheek snaffle a minus one, for its poll pressure relieving action.
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British Show Pony Society chairman, Pat Pattinson, referred to the society’s rule book regarding bitting.
“It states that lead-rein and first ridden ponies must be shown in any suitable snaffle bridle,” she said.
“Judges will take into account the severity of the bit, their opinions on suitable bridles may vary and their decision is final.”
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Rachael joined Horse & Hound in 2014, initially as a digital sub editor then became part of the news team as a writer in 2015. The philosophy graduate studied journalism at the Press Association before working as a local reporter at the Brentwood Gazette. Rachael is now a mum of two and still loves all things equestrian, including hacking, dressage and jumping with her cob Bert. Rachael left the H&H staff to go freelance in June 2019, but still contributes to our magazine and website, as well as our sister magazine Country Life, among others.