Ranch Riding Horses in Equestrianism

Ranch Riding is about practical skills, rather than style of dress or showing ability. Competitors work to set patterns, which involve making full use of the arena moving in lines, squares, large open serpentines and other shapes. Horse and rider need to demonstrate how well they back up, as well as making lots of transitions and also changes of lead at lope. These can be simple or flying changes according to the partnership’s skill level. There will also be hazards, such as logs, to cross, during which the horse needs to pick up its feet well and tackle the obstacle confidently. The more advanced classes may include stops, side passes and spins, too, representing the kind of reactions that are required from a working horse. The great thing from the rider’s perspective is that there’s no need to develop a “home” versus “show day” mindset. The whole point of the class is that horse and rider should perform in the same way in the arena as they do at home or out on the trail. However, trainers recommend practising the skills at home but not performing the exact patterns set for competition, since this can both bore the horse and cause it to anticipate what’s next. After all, it would be impossible to predict all the hazards that might be encountered on the trail. Therefore, keeping fresh and alert is part of the training. Nor is there any need for expensive equipment. Wooden logs can provide the grids both for stepping over and for creating boxes for smoothly backing up or keeping spins tight. Ranch Riding is an activity that encourages competitors to think imaginatively. It’s not just the horse that needs to be alert and focussed; the rider also needs to learn specific patterns for competing and this can often prove the greatest challenge! In summary, Ranch Riding is a popular competitive sport, and it’s also a fun activity that can be practised at home to the benefit of any horse and rider.