Ranch Horse
Western
One of the fastest growing western disciplines in Australia in recent years – Versatility Ranch Horse promotes true versatility of both horse and rider, with manoeuvres and obstacles designed to replicate or mimic those that would be encountered whilst working on the Ranch. Forward, ground covering movement and responsiveness to the riders’ cues, whilst maintaining a calm demeanour, are essential qualities of a good ranch horse. The ability to move from one task to another fluidly without resistance is also highly regarded – a true ranch horse could be out checking fences one moment and rounding up a stray cow the next!
Run by the Ranch Horse Association of Australia Inc and showcasing the best of Versatility Ranch Horse, the inaugural RHAA EQUITAMA Open Ranch Horse Invitational competition will see ten of Australia’s top Ranch Riders tackle the various dry work (non-cattle) elements of Versatility Ranch – Ranch Riding, Ranch Reining and Ranch Trail. Riders will be required to show their horse at the walk, trot and lope as well as showing extension of these gaits, whilst tackling various obstacles along the way. Lead changes, spins, dragging or picking up objects, opening and closing a gate, roping, crossing a bridge and even a jump are just some of the skills that could be called upon! With a pattern designed to challenge the competitors and entertain the audience, watch as horse and rider combinations navigate their way through the course as correctly and efficiently as possible in their effort to become the inaugural RHAA Equitana Open Champion!
For more information, please contact treasurer@rhaa.com.au
