Driving a Five-in-Hand Mountain Team

One of the more rarely seen turnouts is a five-in-hand, mountain team or pickaxe as it’s referred to here in the US. The first time I really became aware of the expression “mountain team” was when I was working for Andreas Nemitz, who used a five-in-hand to cross the Alps on his nine-day Lindau Messenger tour every year. I soon learned that driving a five-in-hand has its challenges!

Ranch Ride Carriage Drive Answers Your Questions: Poles, Pole Straps, and Turns

Recently we had some questions about adjustments of poles and pole straps. But once you have the correct sizes and adjustments for your horses, then there is an art to making a turn without risking breaking your wooden pole.

A Joyful Training Session!

Training should be safe, effective... and FUN! Come along with Caryn as she practices her technique at Ranch Ride Carriage Drive!

Measuring Your Reins Before Mounting, the Achenbach Way

It’s a lesser-known fact that under the Achenbach system, the pairs driver always measures their reins from the ground before mounting the carriage, and always mounts from the left-hand side. The intent is to allow the driver to have control of the horses throughout the entire process of mounting the carriage and taking their seat.

After the Rain, We’re Out to Train

After seven inches of rain, our arena and fields are too wet to use. But the ranch's water obstacle is full of rainwater and gives us a rare opportunity to educate our horses!

Variety in Training: A Change is as Good as a Rest!

Variety is important! The old adage, “a change is as good as a rest,” can really help to keep a horse from getting bored and naughty. But plan carefully and ramp up your training slowly to prevent injuries.

Mark Your Calendars for the 2024 CHA International Conference!

The 2024 CHA International Conference will be held October 31st to November 2nd, 2024, at Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas. Ranch Ride Carriage Drive is looking forward to participating and we hope to see you there!! Stay tuned for more details as they're announced on the CHA website, CHA.horse/international-conference!