[drivingpairs] Re: Tandem hooking up



I generally follow the steps outlined by Jane.  At events, I am usually showing 
out of my trailer, so my leader stays tied to the trailer until we are ready to 
hook her.

So it goes like this, dress both ponies while tied to trailer (or barn wall). 
Hitch wheeler completely and get in vehicle.  Helper then brings up leader, or 
I 
drive wheeler in behind leader.  Helper feeds reins through appropriate  loops 
on 
wheeler to my hands.  Note that I set up the reins in the leader's saddle 
terrets 
so one can simpley pull the end and walk it back to the wheeler then driver. 
When I am comfortable with the reins in my hands I ask the helper to hook the 
traces, then get in the vehicle.  ( Grooms required at ALL times!)

After the drive, I drive back to the trailer and park the leader at her 
accustomed place.  The helper then disconnects the traces while I am freeing 
the 
ends of the reins from wherever I have them stashed, usually under ME.  When 
the 
traces are free, the helper then can pull the reins and then he/she is in 
control 
of the leader.  I usually back the wheeler a couple of steps, and then side 
pass 
to HER spot on the trailer.

The sequence is important for at least two reasons, both involving safety. 
Someone mentioned control before power.  that means reins in hand before 
connecting the traces.  The other is consistantly following the same pattern to 
insure you actually COMPLETE all the the required steps.

Hope that helps.

BTW, I was pleased to be able to help Jane get  ready for her clinic with 
Marsoe 
LaRose this afternoon.  She had a ball and so did Marsoe!  The tiny tande 
seemed 
to still have a lot of energy after the clinic, so Jane let me drive them for a 
while.  I see why she always has this great big grin on her face whle driving 
them.  They are a complete hoot to drive!  Full of energy and quick to respond 
like only small ponies can be!  Thanks, Jane!

Tomorrow we will be seeing if my planned new tandem will work.  My experianced 
leader with my young, fairly green wheeler.  Will report back tomorrow night.

Drive Safely

Jay E Hubert
Coffing Oaks Welsh Ponies
Galt, CA

Do not meddle in the affairs of dragons, because you are crunchy and taste good 
with ketchup.

And I STILL drive too fast to worry about cholesterol! 

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