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show, but does not practice them every day. Gary Roberts emphasizes that patern place- ment is very important for these classes. You need to know where to use the arena to opti- mize your horse’s performance. He recom- mends “riding the patern” at a walk to pick out locations for transitions, lead changes and other maneuvers. The trainers all agree that a ranch horse must be responsive and guide well, staying straight in the bridle and between the reins. If you back your horse he should give his face to you and immediately step backward straight and readily until you ask hip to stop says Damianos. Likewise, if you side pass a horse he should start with his hip and take regular steps sideways. He also advises that if you need to change leads you should practice it in different spots in the arena so his focus is the same every- where you go. “Horses learn by repetition. With repetition the horse develops a mus- cle memory. With muscle memory comes improved skills and declining resistance.” When you are home, never pass on an
opportunity to work catle even if it just pushing them from one place to another. “I think horses get happier when they under- stand there is a reason for what we ask them to do. Also a good ranch horse seems to gain calmness and confidence by correct regular exposure to catle,” says Damianos. “Finally, there is no beter way to expose your horse’s weaknesses and find out what you need to work on than by moving catle.” Rich also emphasizes the importance of working catle for a ranch horse. “Your horse has to listen to you all the time without any resistance in the ranch riding. If you have a cowhorse, prac- ticing on the flag or on catle will help keep your horse sharp and listening. Whether or not you have access to catle, ride them around like you’re drunk with unpredictable turns and transitions to help your horse get square in the bridle and get them soſt.”
For the Ranch Rail, remember it is all
about how your horse moves and carries himself as well as transitions from one gait to another. Laurel Denton reminds compet- itors that this class is not a race. You need to learn how to be seen without making it about speed. Multiple pros stress that in the rail class you want to keep your horse square in the bridle and responsive when you liſt you liſt your hand. It is important that your horse is soſt and not exhibiting any resistance. When you pick up the lope, Rich wants to see them quiet and steady in the bridle without tossing their heads or looking busy in the mouth. Judges want to see a nat- Continued on page 25
Michelle Shaffer looks up and ahead with her horse, Bullseye, square in the bridle in the ranch trail.
Monica Albair portrays a confident, relaxed picture during her run on Electric Lena Chex.
Cowhand Rockstar photo
Cowhand Rockstar photo
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