0 Everyone Admires A Different Kind Of Horse Performance

By Essie Craft


Riding or watching this magnificent animal is such a pleasure. It captures the hearts of a crowd to witness a horse performance of any kind. Being a spectator or holding out a hand to offer a treat will always create a wonderful memory.

There are variations but the two basic types of riding are English and Western. This refers to the tack that is used, the saddle and bridle. For the English riding and jumping events, a flat saddle and bridle with double reins are used. The rider controls the animal holding the reins in two hands. Small water obstacles, brick walls and fences set up in different sequences are used in jumping competitions.

A Western show features barrel racing, pole bending and speed events, which might have names like potato race. The leather saddle is bigger and bulkier. It has a horn at the front. This originated from the roping event in which the competition involved roping and tying a calf in the shortest length of time.

A rodeo features an opening ride around the arena and roping, barrel racing and bronco bull riding. Barrel racing involves riding around three large barrels set up in a cloverleaf pattern. The rider races around them as fast as possible without tipping over a barrel. Fastest ride wins the event. The bull riding requires the cowboy to stay atop that dangerous animal for eight seconds.

There is one event that is in a class by itself, called dressage. The amazing horse executes a series of dance steps that require years of learning and perfecting. Rider and mount are in perfect sync and their communication is key to success. They put on a fascinating show for the spectators.

Another event involves a cowboy riding a well-trained steed in a way that simulates the way cattle were followed and separated from the herd by a ranch hand. This also requires excellent communication between rider and mount. The reins are not used. Shifting weight in the saddle tells the animal which direction to move in.

It is always a day of entertainment and betting when you go to the racetrack. The jockeys ride out towards the starting gates in a wild splash of color and pageantry. This fast-paced race around the track poses danger to the jockey and the horse. The prize, or purse, for the winner can be a huge amount of money.

Each breed in various competitions has a different conformation, which refers to the build or body type. The thoroughbred is generally taller and thinner. The quarter horse is compact and able to turn on a dime. There are smaller animals used for harness racing. The heavier breeds are referred to as draft horses. These are the Percheron, a French breed with a gray or black coat.

The French Percheron has a gray or brown coat. The Scottish Clydesdale may be black, brown and sometimes different shades. You will see this powerful animal pulling the Budweiser wagon in television commercials. The showy look is evidenced by its long, white and feathery fetlocks.

Then there is the magnificent horse performance that is part of every parade. On the Fourth of July, one lucky rider gets to carry the American flag. Her mount must be accustomed to being amongst a crowd and to remain calm and avoid endangering the spectators lining the parade route. This fine animal, in any conformation or color, is a favorite part of the parade.




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