Anytime you show, it's crucial to think about what you'll do and how you'll do it ahead of your class, no matter the event. But ranch riding might require even more strategy and planning simply because there aren't any markers in the pen and the execution of the pattern is up to your interpretation. Strategizing and planning ahead of time allows you to determine the best way to lay out your pattern, show your horse's strengths, avoid any weaknesses, and present a pattern the judges won't forget.
Here are my six tips for your preparation process anytime you compete in ranch riding. If you show in other events, try these out and see how they work for you, too.
Tip 1: Think Outside the Drawing
The patterns themselves are just guidelines. Ranch riding patterns have more room for execution than something stricter like a reining pattern. You don't have to perform it exactly as it says on the page. I advise paying more attention to the words describing the pattern than the drawing itself.
Planning your pattern in this way allows you to account for things such as arenas of different lengths and widths and those that are more square than oblong. The arena's shape provides a major determining factor for how your pattern will come together.
This story is from the Bonus Issue 2023 edition of Horse and Rider.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the Bonus Issue 2023 edition of Horse and Rider.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
A Horseback High
Riding vacations can be found around the world, and here are five bucket list rides in the United States
JOIN THE CLUB!
Riding clubs of all forms can be found across the country. What should you look for when choosing—or starting—a club of your own? We asked three club leaders to share their insights
Help Is (Sometimes) Only a Phone Call Away!
Do you depend on over-the-phone advice from your veterinarian? Here's what you need to know about telehealth to help you understand what you can, and can't, expect
REPLACING FEAR WITH CURIOSITY
Horses have both flight and investigative behaviors but not at the same time. Learn how to help your horse switch to curiosity when his flight instincts kick in, and how to put the brakes on when he's already gone
Ranch Riding Mares
Evaluate and place these performance mares. Then see how your choices compare to our expert judge's.
An Empty Stall
The loss of a horse leads to a new landscape of managing emotions and moving forward
Strengthen Your Mental Game
Prepare your mind for peak performances with your horse by implementing these tips from reining trainer Shane Brown
Burning Off the Fresh
Whether your horse has gone unridden due to a health problem, the weather, or your schedule, a thoughtful process can keep everyone safe during his return to work
Return to Exercise Slowly
If you’ve been turned out to pasture for a while, as the result of injury or just a busy life, return to exercise in a safe and steady way
Ground Tying for Ranch Trail
There are many reasons to teach your horse how to safely ground tie