Backs up/side steps when mounting; bit advice

Question
Hello Amanda, I recently purchased a 10 yr old QH/Arab gelding for my 12 year old daughter (3 years riding experience on many horse types with varied levels of training). We plan to use him for western pleasure/show and possibly speed events once he is re-acquainted with being ridden regularly.  The previous owner had not ridden him in about 2 years but stated that he had been extensively trail ridden and he rode well for my daughter at her home in the round pen.  Now that we have him at the boarding barn, we have encountered a few behavior issues.  He backs up or side steps when my daughter attempts to mount from the near side and will only stand still briefly for mounting on the off side.  Also, he seems to only want to go at one speed--FAST.  The previous owner gave us the bit they used for him (a shank snaffle). He takes the bit easily and it doesn't appear to cause him discomfort.  I wonder if he would "mind" better with a curb bit.   He is very sweet and well-mannered other than these 2 issues.

Answer
hi phoebe,
lets see, as far as the mounting goes take him in the round pen and work him a bit. bring him to the center and try to mount him. if he moves send him out and make him run a few laps. bring him back in and try again until he stands quietly for you. he does this to be stubborn and that he doesnt respect the rider. as far as the speed goes, if he tries to take off with you turn him in a tight circle and make him circle a few rounds. or take him up a nearest hill and make him keep running until hes tired. or you can try german martingal. it will bring the horses head down so he cant run away. as far as the bit goes try and twisted wire snaffle with shanks. or a gag bit. gag bits work well and there not as bad as they sound. curb bits are really hard and will just make him sour with the bit.i never use a curb i always have a broken bit. good luck with your new horse and make sure he gets the slow gaits down before doing speed events.if you have any other questions or new problems occure then message me and i can help.
amanda groff