Winkers, also known as a blinder, are pieces of equipment used on racehorses for a variety of reasons. They are usually made of leather or nylon and are designed to cover the horse’s eyes and prevent it from seeing to the side or behind. This allows the horse to focus on running in a straight line and eliminates distractions from the sides. The use of winkers has been a longstanding practice in the racing industry and is still widely used today.
Why are Winkers Used on Racehorses?
There are several reasons why winkers are used on racehorses. The most common reason is to help the horse focus on running straight ahead and to eliminate distractions from the sides. Winkers also help to prevent the horse from being spooked by other horses or objects that may be nearby. Additionally, they can help reduce the horse’s anxiety levels and can help keep the horse in a calm state of mind as it runs.
The Pros and Cons of Using Winkers on Racehorses
The use of winkers on racehorses has both advantages and disadvantages. On the plus side, they can help to keep the horse focused on the task at hand and can help to reduce anxiety levels. Additionally, they can help to prevent the horse from being startled or spooked by other horses or objects nearby. On the downside, some horses may find the winkers uncomfortable and may be reluctant to wear them. Additionally, the use of winkers can reduce the horse’s peripheral vision, making it more difficult for it to detect obstacles in its path.
The Different Types of Winkers
There are a variety of different types of winkers available for use on racehorses. The most common type is the “plain” winker, which is a single piece of leather or nylon that covers the horse’s eyes. There are also “flip” winkers, which have two pieces that can be flipped up or down depending on the situation. Additionally, there are “flash” winkers, which are designed to blink in order to further distract the horse from potential distractions.
How to Fit Winkers Properly
In order for winkers to be effective, they must be properly fitted to the horse. The winker should be fitted snugly and securely around the horse’s eyes, but not too tightly. Additionally, the straps should be adjusted so that they do not rub against the horse’s eyes or cause any discomfort. It is important to ensure that the winkers are fitted correctly in order to ensure that the horse is comfortable and able to focus on running straight ahead.
Safety Considerations When Using Winkers
It is important to consider the safety of the horse when using winkers. The winker should be fitted snugly and securely around the horse’s eyes, but not too tightly. Additionally, the straps should be adjusted so that they do not rub against the horse’s eyes or cause any discomfort. It is also important to ensure that the winkers are not too loose, as this could cause the horse to be startled or spooked by other horses or objects nearby.
How Do Winkers Affect the Horse’s Performance?
The use of winkers can have both positive and negative effects on a horse’s performance. On the plus side, they can help to keep the horse focused on running straight ahead and can help to reduce anxiety levels. Additionally, they can help to prevent the horse from being startled or spooked by other horses or objects nearby. On the downside, the use of winkers can reduce the horse’s peripheral vision, making it more difficult for it to detect obstacles in its path.
What Other Equipment is Used with Winkers?
In addition to winkers, there are a few other pieces of equipment that are commonly used in conjunction with winkers. These include:
- Earplugs: Earplugs are used to reduce the amount of noise the horse hears while running. This can help to reduce the horse’s anxiety levels and keep it focused on running.
- Noseband: A noseband is a piece of equipment that is used to keep the horse’s head in an upright position. This can help to reduce the amount of head movement the horse makes, making it easier for it to focus on running straight ahead.
- Bridle: A bridle is a piece of equipment that is used to steer the horse and keep it running in a straight line. The bridle should be fitted correctly in order to ensure that the horse is comfortable and able to focus on running straight ahead.
Do All Horses Need to Wear Winkers?
Not all horses need to wear winkers when racing. Some horses may find the winkers uncomfortable and may be reluctant to wear them. Additionally, the use of winkers can reduce the horse’s peripheral vision, making it more difficult for it to detect obstacles in its path. For these reasons, some horses may be better off running without winkers.
Conclusion
Winkers are pieces of equipment that are used on racehorses for a variety of reasons. The most common reason for using winkers is to help the horse focus on running straight ahead and to eliminate distractions from the sides. Additionally, they can help to prevent the horse from being spooked by other horses or objects that may be nearby. The use of winkers has both advantages and disadvantages, and it is important to ensure that they are fitted properly in order to ensure the horse’s safety and comfort.