A STUDENT from Duchy College Stoke Climsland has showcased her research findings at an international conference held at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada.

Kirstie Parker, who is working towards her Research Masters in association with Plymouth University, presented her findings on rein tension to an audience of experts at the International Society of Equitation Science (ISES). 

Kirsty’s research examined the effect of a range of variables on the rein tension being used when riding. Variables included rider ability, rein type, location of reins and left or right hand. 

Kirsty said: ‘Excessive rein tension can be a welfare concern for the horse due to discomfort and pain and can cause clinical and behavioural problems. This study provides valuable objective data and emphasises the need for further scientific study to help us to understand the effects on the horse.’

The 11th ISES conference was officially opened by team lead for Equitation Science at Duchy College and honorary president of ISES, Dr Hayley Randle. The theme for the conference was Ethical Equitation for All Disciplines: Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges.

Dr Randle said: ‘Equitation Science has always been about the conduct of rigorous objective research and the application of its findings to practice within industry and the horse-owning population.  I am delighted that Kirstie was given an opportunity to present her findings to the gathered group of experts from all over the world; there was quite a buzz after she had presented.

‘It is really pleasing to see continued growth of equitation science research covering an increasing number of equestrian disciplines and equid uses. The application of learning theory continues its development with a review of the first principles of training as applied to the education and training of equids.’