www.horseandrideruk.com

I've owned/rode/loaned horses for a lot of years & had a break of around 6yrs due to having children, this pony is my second loan since starting riding again.

I have no experience of anything THIS fast... I've had dressage horses, problem horses, rearers, forward going horses, but this is a different league!

My question is; What can I try to slow her down?
I've not hacked her out yet & I'm going to wait a fair while before doing so as I can see me being the one being taken for a ride & I obviously want to avoid anyone getting hurt or scared & put off riding her. In the ménage I do lots of rein changes, figure 8's, 10m/20m circles etc & she still shows no signs of slowing down. Occasionally she'll walk a few paces but its rare, she dog trots the majority & then when I ask for trot she wants to zoom off. Yesterday she took off with me slightly but I managed to bring her back, twice, but it's very hardwork. I have to continuously play with her mouth & although she is very forward going I also have to keep my leg applied or she takes the mick :-/
I'm concerned that to stop her I have to pull her mouth too much (for my preference) I always thought harsh bit = light hands...

I want to be able to compete a little on her as she loves jumping but ATM I can't see it happening as she just rushes constantly & I sometimes feel myself getting to point I'm concerned I won't be able to stop! I rode for 20mins yesterday & was so drained I had to get off so we ended on a good note as opposed to a bad one

Thanks in advance

I forgot to state is she ridden in a Pelham & running martingale

I know exactly your problem. At my riding school there is a horse like this who I ride regularly. With this in mind, I couldn't change tack. She used to be ridden with her head collar under her bridle though. She has a really sensitive mouth so I use my seat eg leaning forward, go faster (try not to do!) leaning back, outline and slowing. Make your seat heavier and use plenty of half halts. Every couple of strides use a half halt then give a little, half halt, give. Hope it works and try to avoid sudden movements