A horse is a wonderful teacher. Often when one sees a man or woman mount a
horse, the horse gives his head submissively and puts his attention and trust in
the rider. He stretches his topline and supples his back under the influence of
the well-disciplined rider. His movement is fluid and controlled, showing great
prowess. The horse and rider combine their physical, mental, and emotional
abilities in order to express themselves in a unique and beautifully artistic
manner. But it takes time, willpower, practice, patience, understanding, and
hard work to get to this point. It takes the horse and rider acting as one.
It is essential to understand that it is the horse more than the rider who is
the educator. All of the movements performed by the horse under saddle are
merely adaptations of his own natural movements. The rider undertakes
horsemanship, and learns about the horse and his movements. He learns how to ask
the horse for these movements at will. The horse already knows how to perform
the movements; it is simply a matter of the rider to learn how to achieve these
movements on horseback and how to be able to sit them. It is the horse that
teaches this to his rider. It is the rider who is unfamiliar with the movements
of the horse.
Riding and the teachings of the horse go far beyond movements. The movements
simply represent what the rider has learned. They show hours of practice and
tact, listening and patience. It shows the humbling of man. A true rider has to
understand that his arrogance has no place in riding. He has to learn that the
privilege of apprenticeship under the horse is not one to be taken lightly. A
horse will teach about riding and about living life. He teaches essential skills
for survival, appreciation, and understanding of life. The simple lessons within
the arena hold validity everywhere. Skills are taught and the mind is trained
within the horse's manège. It is up to the rider to listen.
Did You Know?
Fun Facts About Horses
1. Each foal is influenced by his mother's character and learns to copy her
attitudes.
2. Animals that fight to defend their home are called territorial, and their
home is their territory. In the wild, horses become territorial only when there
is not enough food and water to share.
3. Horses prefer the company of other horses, but can become attached to donkeys
and goats.
4. Mutual grooming is part of the play process. Young horses learn to
communicate with each other, forming bonds of friendship.
5. When getting to know each other, horses all behave in the same way. They
learn this greeting ritual early in their lives.
Letters to the mascot
Dear Clyde,
I want a horse more than anything in the world but my parents don't think I am
ready for the responsibility of having one. How can I prove to them that I am
ready for a horse? Jason, Ontario, Oregon
Jason,
Having a horse is a big responsibility. If you wish to prove to your parents
that you are ready for the responsibility of a horse you should be sure you do
all of your chores without being asked. Don't complain about having to do work
around the house. A horse is a lot of work and your parents probably do not want
to be stuck with the care of the horse or have to beg you to get the job done.
You may want to take on the full care of a pet you already have, such as a cat
or dog to help them see that you are ready. You could also ask for riding
lessons if you are not already taking them. This way you can learn to properly
care for your horse when you do get one. You may also want to begin saving money
for a horse and the things you will need to properly care for your new friend.
Good luck.
Congratulations!
Exceptional World Championship Appaloosa Youth Show for Erica Schulz
At the World Championship Appaloosa Youth Show in Oklahoma City, Okla., June
28 – July 3, Erica Schulz of Beaverton, Ore., won the championship title in Hunt
Seat Equitation 12 and under and reserve championships in Showmanship at Halter
12 and under and English Showmanship 13 and under exhibiting OCS SHEER ELEGANCE,
a 6-year-old Appaloosa mare.
