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Western Events

Master Riding Over Logs
Master Riding Over Logs

May 12, 2022

Will your horse ride over logs easily and with interest? In popular ranch riding classes, log obstacles are part of every pattern. Most often, the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) patterns call for walking or trotting over logs. A few patterns also call for lope-overs or a sidepass over logs...
Using Romal Reins to Improve Communication
Using Romal Reins to Improve Communication

April 4, 2022

A staple piece of tack for many West Coast western riders, romal reins can be a bit of a mystery if you learned how to ride in the eastern parts of the United States. While this rein started as a reined cow horse mainstay, its use has spread across the...
American Saddlebreds Get Western
American Saddlebreds Get Western

March 19, 2022

Years ago, if you attended a Saddlebred horse show, you could expect to see high-stepping, animated horses shown in saddle seat and fine harness classes and not much else. And while the beauty and excitement of the saddle seat show ring is still a beloved part of the experience for...
No Bridle, No Problem: Is Riding Bridleless Right for You and Your Horse?
No Bridle, No Problem: Is Riding Bridleless Right for You and Your Horse?

January 30, 2022

If you’ve been to a horse expo, you’ve probably seen a bridleless riding demonstration. The lack of tack looks like an inspiring next plane of communication and connection with your horse. But is bridleless riding an attainable goal for all? Here, we talked with longtime horsemanship trainer and 5 Star...
Ranch Riding Rundown
Ranch Riding Rundown

December 26, 2021

Ranch riding tops the list as one of the most popular western show classes. The appeal? A class that riders can succeed in without expensive silver-adorned saddles or fancy clothes. Most any horse-and-rider team that prepares for the pattern class has a chance to win. The American Quarter Horse Association...
Western Trail Class Dos and Don’ts
Western Trail Class Dos and Don’ts

November 11, 2021

To score well in horse show trail classes, you must pay attention to details. Glancing in the wrong direction or allowing your horse to take an extra step between carefully measured poles can cost precious points. Top trainer Shaun Gloude of Franktown, Colo., understands how important it is to learn...
Dress to Impress in Your Next Western Show Class
Dress to Impress in Your Next Western Show Class

November 3, 2021

You’ve been practicing your maneuvers and getting your horse ready to show off his moves in western classes. But now you need the best western show outfit. You want your clothes to be appropriate for each class without distracting from your performance. Your choice of clothing will vary, depending on...
Western Lesson: Introduce Your Horse to a Baby Pool
Western Lesson: Introduce Your Horse to a Baby Pool

September 6, 2021

Baby pool water obstacles are common in trail classes. Plus, splashing in a baby pool is a great way to introduce your horse to water crossings if you’re surrounded by dry land. (Plastic pools should only be used with barefoot horses. If your horse wears shoes, opt for a low...
Take the Reins: The Ins and Outs of 4 Common Types of Western Reins
Take the Reins: The Ins and Outs of 4 Common Types of Western Reins

October 4, 2020

Reins are the key to communicating with your horse from the saddle. Used to cue and control direction and speed, the right set of reins can make the difference between a good ride and a disaster. American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) Professional Horsewoman Carol Metcalf breaks down the four most...
The Need for Speed: Improving Your Barrel Racing Runs
The Need for Speed: Improving Your Barrel Racing Runs

September 4, 2020

You’ve been running barrels for a while now: You know the pattern. Your turns are solid. Your seat is stable. But you just aren’t going fast enough! If that sounds familiar, then this guide is for you. We’ll walk you through the steps to add acceleration and improve your barrel...