Cheek pieces are special pieces of equipment used on race horses. They are designed to help the jockey maintain control of the horse during a race. They are also used to help protect the horse’s mouth and teeth from injury due to the pressure of the bit. Cheek pieces come in different sizes and shapes, and can be made of different materials such as leather, nylon, or plastic.
How Do Cheek Pieces Work?
When the jockey places the bit in the horse’s mouth, they will also attach the cheek pieces to the bit. The cheek pieces help to keep the bit in place, and also provide extra control for the jockey. The cheek pieces work by providing leverage, which helps the jockey to keep the horse focused and on track during a race.
Types of Cheek Pieces
There are several different types of cheek pieces available for race horses. The most common types are:
- Cavesson: This type of cheek piece is made of leather and is designed to fit comfortably in the horse’s mouth. It is the most common type of cheek piece used in racing.
- Españoles: This type of cheek piece is made of nylon or plastic and is designed to provide extra control for the jockey. It is often used for young, inexperienced horses.
- Splint: This type of cheek piece is made of leather and is designed to help protect the horse’s mouth from the bit. It is often used for horses with sensitive mouths.
- Knot: This type of cheek piece is made of leather and is designed to provide extra control for the jockey. It is often used for horses that are difficult to control.
Benefits of Cheek Pieces
Cheek pieces can be a great tool for jockeys to help them maintain control of the horse during a race. They also help to protect the horse’s mouth and teeth from injury due to the pressure of the bit. In addition, they can provide extra support for the jockey’s hands, which can help to reduce fatigue.
Drawbacks of Cheek Pieces
Although cheek pieces can be beneficial for race horses, there are some drawbacks to using them. The main drawback is that they can be uncomfortable for the horse, which can lead to a decrease in performance. Additionally, if the cheek pieces are not properly fitted, they can cause chafing and irritation to the horse’s mouth.
How to Fit Cheek Pieces
Fitting cheek pieces correctly is essential for the safety and comfort of the horse. To fit them properly, the jockey should measure the horse’s mouth and then choose the appropriate size of cheek pieces. The cheek pieces should be fitted snugly, but not too tightly, and should not rub against the horse’s face or lips.
How to Care for Cheek Pieces
Proper care and maintenance of cheek pieces is essential for their longevity and effectiveness. Cheek pieces should be cleaned and conditioned regularly to prevent them from becoming brittle or damaged. Additionally, they should be inspected for signs of wear and tear and replaced when necessary.
Cheek Pieces vs. Bitless Bridles
Cheek pieces and bitless bridles are both commonly used in racing, but there are some differences between them. Bitless bridles are designed to provide control without the use of a bit, while cheek pieces are designed to work with a bit. Additionally, bitless bridles can be more comfortable for the horse than cheek pieces, as they do not exert pressure on the horse’s mouth.
Safety Considerations When Using Cheek Pieces
Whenever a jockey uses cheek pieces, safety should be a top priority. Cheek pieces should always be inspected for signs of damage or wear before use, and should be replaced when necessary. Additionally, the jockey should always ensure that the cheek pieces are fitted correctly and are not too tight or too loose.
Conclusion
Cheek pieces are an important piece of equipment for any race horse, as they can help the jockey to maintain control and can also help to protect the horse’s mouth and teeth from injury. However, they should always be used with caution, and inspected regularly for signs of damage or wear. With proper care and maintenance, cheek pieces can be a great tool for jockeys to help them keep their horses on track during a race.