This magnificent animal provides an exciting riding experience. Being a spectator at any type of horse performance can capture the heart. To a child who has the opportunity to hold out her hand to offer an apple, it will remain a memorable event.
Riding styles come in two variations. The first is English and the second Western. In an English show you will see flat leather saddles and bridles with double reins to control the animal. There is a special grace to the way a rider takes his mount over a fence or brick wall set up on the jumping course.
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 the roping event and barrel racing in addition to others such as bronco bull riding and the wild horse race. Barrel racing involves riding in a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels set up for it. The rider with the fastest time without knocking over a barrel wins.
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.
There is a Western event that requires perfect communication between rider and mount. It copies the methods used by cowboys when they cut a calf from the herd. The event is referred to as a cutting class. Shifting the weight in the saddle tells the animal which way to turn.
Going to the racetrack is an exciting spectator sport. There is music and pageantry as the jockeys ride out on the track. The jockeys, small, lightweight men and women, are magnificent athletes in a somewhat dangerous competition. Each wears colors matching the tack worn by his or her mount. Race winners collect a purse, which can vary in amount.
The conformation of each breed makes it suitable for the competition it enters. A thoroughbred is taller and more slender. The compact quarter horse can turn quickly giving it an edge in barrel racing. Smaller animals are used for harness racing. The draft horses are taller and heavier. The Percheron and Clydesdale is well suited to pulling heavy wagons.
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.
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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