Working Equitation

[larri]

Has any body had a go?
I've seen demos and it looks like fun ( and hard work)
It's growing in UK and is well established in Portugal, Italy, Spain etc I don't think they have it in US yet????

Larri

[Pedro]

I never had a go at it (I wish!), but I've seen it a couple of times. Here in Portugal it quickly became the most attractive competition during horse fairs. It is a much better spectacle than SJ or dressage. Also, because it fits like a glove into Portuguese riding tradition and the Lusitano horse, it's no surprise that we invariably kick rear-ends at European competitions :D! Last year we won both the team prize and the first three individual prizes. Not bad, he he he ;)...

I guess that there is no working equitation in the US because there is already a form of western competition that is very similar (passing several obstacles like opening gates, crossing bridges, backing up, etc...). Not sure what it's called, maybe Outrider can help us out with that?

Anyway, if you haven't seen them already, I have a few photos online of a Portuguese horse fair that includes images of the work equitation competition at:

http://www.geocities.com/pedrofortunato/horseshow.html


Since you like Lusitanos, I also have photos of the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art with their Alter Real Stallions at:

http://www.geocities.com/pedrofortunato/epae.html


Pedro Fortunato

[katie_did]

It sounds as though you are talking about trail class. It is great fun, although my horse is afraid of the haunted mail box. :D

[larri]

Thank you so much for the links, the pictures were amazing!
Safira's Sire was an Alter stallion and was used in the displays for 12 years, then retired to stud and imported over here to UK.

You'd be surprised at how well known the Portuguese ways are - especially over here. I was classically trained at a UK stud that only used traditional Portuguese methods, and horses of course.
Our luso breed society has very strong links to Portugal and at our annual breed show we invite judges and riders over.
We have many classes where Portuguese tack and clothing is compulsary - in hand and ridden. There are regular clinics over here too - you guessed it- taught by .....Portuguese riders!

The stud I worked held displays all over the UK, our stallions were worked in hand and ridden the traditional way, with the classic 18th century dress. I never managed airs above the ground but do a pretty mean Spanish walk!!

Working equitation is gaining popularity, but at the moment it seems that very few non lusos are getting into it. I suppose you have to face it that they are made for the job!!!

I will chat to you later Pedro - I still have to check out your message on the Luso thread and my email!

Thanks again !

Larri

PS I reckon with the similarity in agility western horses would give us a run for our money what do you reckon?

:D :D :D

[belle]

I havent had a go myself, but when I was on work experience I saw it being practised for a show and it looked like great fun!:)

[SweetHillsGurly]

our family friend has only gaited horses..... she let me ride some of her spanish gaiteds in one when i was visiting.... so cool.... and what you're thinking about is trail.... that's a lotta fun.