Choosing a Riding Style or Equestrian Discipline - Pt 2

Eventing

This discipline is a combination of the above three disciplines. Riders are judged firstly at Dressage to demonstrate the training and capability of the horse and rider. Next the combination are to ride the cross-country course, this tests stamina, fitness, and bravery. Finally they are judged in Show jumping, this assess the ability to come back to a controlled speed and perform the tight turns and stamina to complete the final leg of the discipline. Eventing is also known as Three Day Eventing (3DE), although many of the lower levels are held in one day.

Rodeo Riding

You have probably seen Rodeo riders cutting cows and tagging steers. The ladies will barrel race and bend around poles, while the males bronc ride and rope. This event is fast and dusty, the horses are fit and trained for speed. The riders dress for success in sponsored shirts and rodeo chaps, all riding in western saddles. Many riders travel around the States and Australia competing in Rodeo Competitions all seeking the same thing, the High Point Award for there chosen field of Rodeo Riding. This discipline is not for the Faint Hearted but if you like speed and being in the spotlight, this event is for you.

Barrel Racing

This event is mainly seen at Rodeo Events, but is also run on its own. The combination are required to ride a clover leaf pattern around three barrels. Many states require the pattern to be ridden on a right hand, whereas others can choose from a right or a left hand pattern. This event is fast and requires a lot of skill in being able to stay in the saddle as you gallop from one barrel to the next. If you enjoy riding for fun and like fast paced riding, this event is for you.

Hacking

In England, a Hack is referred to as a leisurely ride through paddocks and lane ways, it is a way to ride a horse out of a show ring its informal and a lot of fun its great for the laid back rider who does not wish to compete . In Australia it is referred to as a Show Riding Horse. The horse is trained to be able to walk, trot, canter and hand-gallop (Extend Canter) with a high to medium head carriage with presence and alertness. Horses are also required to complete a set workout which also includes extensions, rein backs, and change of direction, which are asked as a simple change (canter to trot back to canter), flying change or a walk through (canter or trot to walk and back to the required pace) This event is similar to Dressage, but the riders and horses are a little more showier and their attire is much higher and the horses are spotless. This event requires a lot of ability as a rider and handler. If you ride a Pony, a Galloway or a Hack, your able to hack, the event is judged in height classes as well as rider age groups.

In-Hand

This event is good for those who may have an unbroken horse, or if a rider is unable to ride for any reason. Similar to a Hack event, the horse and rider and judged on the capability and ability to handle and complete the set workout. In-hand showing is available for nearly all breeds from Arabians and Welsh and Native Ponies, through to your Western Breeds such as Appaloosa and Quarter Horses as well as to Warmbloods and Draft horses.