First Training in Harness 119 



earth road, at an easy, steady gait for about fifteen 

 minutes, then take the youngster out of the harness. 

 Continue these lessons twice daily, morning and after- 

 noon, for some time, gradually increasing the work, 

 and hitching the colt alternately each time on either 

 side of the staid mate. This part of the training is 

 not to increase the speed, but to educate the colt to 

 harness and at the same time to improve his action. 



The colt is now ready for work in single harness. 

 For the first few lessons in single harness, many pre- 

 fer to use the skeleton wagon, as it interferes less 

 with the action. After a short drive by the side of 

 the staid mate, quietly take the colt out of the double 

 rig and hitch to the single vehicle. Drive at an easy 

 and steady gait for about fifteen minutes. Con- 

 tinue this work until the colt is thoroughly familiar 

 with the vehicle and can be depended on to obey 

 the voice and lines. Now he may be hitched to the 

 cart or sulky with little or no risk. 



The amount and kind of training will depend on 

 the object sought. If the colt is to trot as a yearling, 

 he will require work twice daily. This work should 

 be short but sharp and speed-making. Colts and 

 yearlings require little or no jogging. Drive the 

 youngster a good fast gait for about 200 yards. 

 Turn him slowly, giving ample time to catch his 

 breath and let him go back a little faster. After 

 going about the same distance, slow down, turn 

 slowly as before and drive him up the stretch again, 



