Reining is one of the most elegant western disciplines. This sport combines both equine athleticism with a range of patterns designed to accentuate the talents of the riders mount. The speed of these horses is stylishly combined with the gentle lope charactaristic of the western horse. It takes a special combination to maintain the loose grace and relaxation required to perform an ideal pattern.
Whilst Reining is often referred to as the Western Dressage, they had their roots in very different origins. Dressage has evolved from the activites performed by horses of war, Reining obviously traces back to the early cattle horses in the United States of America, where a horses duty was gathering, moving and and holding cattle on the wide open spaces of the new territories. The ability to move quickly, change direction and willingly be directed in movements whilst on a loose rein are trademarks of the both the past and modern Reining horse.
The meteoric growth of this sport has led it to be the first Western Discipline to gain full FEI (Fédéderation Equestre Internationale) recognition, resulting in this sport becoming part of the World Equestrian Games, held in Kentucky this year. Contestants are to run one of ten patterns divided into seven or eight manouvers. These manouvers include small slow and large fast circles, flying lead changes, 360 degree spins done in place, and the amazing sliding stops that have become so synonymous with the Reining sport.
Judging begins when the horse enters the arena with 70 points. The judges will then begin to deduct points for each manouver, credit may also be given for smoothness, finesse, attitude, quickness and authority. Controlled speed in the pattern raises the level of difficulty for the compeitors while making the reining horse competitions so exciting for the public to watch.
The victor of this competition will walk away with a hand crafted, custom made 5 Star Reining saddle made by none other than Rick Meredith Custom Saddles, who have kindly donated this prize. The silver corners plates of this amazing saddle feature the EQUITANA Australian Open logo and the fenders will be engraved with the name and year of the event. A braided rawhide horn with a silver horn cap, silver swell plates and conchos featuring black reining horses complete this beautiful piece of saddlery. With a value of $6000.00, the saddle will be a fitting addition to the tack room of the EQUITANA Australian Open Reining Champion.
Contact:
Reining Australia
RSD 4210, Costerfield VIC 3523
Ph: (03) 5433 2054
Email:
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Website:
www.reiningaustralia.com.au
