Monday, August 26, 2013

Everyone Admires A Different Kind Of Horse Performance

By Essie Craft


Being a spectator at a horse performance can create a love for life for this animal. Any child who dreams of feeding a sugar lump to an equine friend will love the experience when it happens. The first ride for pleasure on a trail will be a memorable event.

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 that is the result of perfect communication and years of training is cutting competition. The cowboy guides the steed following a calf and cutting it from the herd as done by ranch hands in earlier times. The animal is guided by the rider shifting his weight in the saddle. Horse and rider move as one.

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.

Another draft breed is the Scottish Clydesdale. Most recognize this tall animal as part of the team pulling the Budweiser wagon and having the long, feathery fetlocks, the hair above and behind each hoof. Color varies, but they all have some white markings.

When a parade marches down the street amidst music and cheering, the groups of horses are one of the favorite spectacles. This horse performance includes riders carrying flags and wearing bright costumes. Some wear military uniforms to represent a branch of the service. People wave and cheer as these equestrian groups ride by.




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