correct way of holding reins

Question

correct way of holding   hello ma'am, i have attached a photo. is this the correct way of holding the reins (bridging the reins on the horse withers)?

actually, i read in internet, its said that riding thoroughbred racehorses is totally different from riding equestrian horses. is it correct?

how does correct way of holding the reins show a positive result in becoming a good rider?

Answer
     Bridging the reins is a practice used in the racing world, and also in the States. Western and English cross country riders often bridge the reins. It can lend stability to the contact, and help prevent the reins being pulled from the rider's hands. Over fences, or in galloping  horses, a rider can lean his hands on the bridged reins, giving his position a bit more stability.

    When shortening your reins with split reins, the rider "bridges" the reins as he shortens them. This prevents pulling on the horse's mouth, and also will not allow the horse to "root" with his head and grab the reins out of his rider's hands.

    Bridging is not commonly used when riding a horse in regular training,whether it is dressage or hunter-jumper. It is necessary to have independent contact, and the way in which the hand is used may need to change in split-second timing.

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