I’m going for it

[Denali]

A week from today I’m taking a lesson at a reining barn. I know reining isn’t popular outside of the US but I’m excited!

My old broken eventing self is really looking forward to this.i

Edited because i can’t spell nor can I proof read

 

[FieldOrnaments]

Always wanted to give reining a go, hope you have a fab time!!

 

[poiuytrewq]

Hope it go’s well! Have a great time and maybe get someone to take some photos for us to see?

 

[Denali]

My mom also asked for photos. Think I’ll give it a go on the second lesson.

This trainer only works with people who own but is willing to have a conversation with me about leasing. Fingers crossed!

My move to the UK is held up by the Navy. Imagine that. So I’m making the most of time time with my dad in New Hampshire.

 

[Jenko109]

I am always super jealous of USA horse sports.

I dont much like jumping (on account of being crap at it) but would love to do some reining or proper competitive barrel racing etc.

 

[Denali]

I am always super jealous of USA horse sports.

I dont much like jumping (on account of being crap at it) but would love to do some reining or proper competitive barrel racing etc.

I wouldn’t be too jealous as that sport is fraught with issues like most American horse disciplines.

But maybe it will be a thing!!!

 

[Follysmum]

I am always super jealous of USA horse sports.

I dont much like jumping (on account of being crap at it) but would love to do some reining or proper competitive barrel racing etc.

Have a look at 4 strides barrel racing Facebook page
They have clinics and shows scattered around .

 

[HopOnTrot]

I’m lusting after a Western saddle and horse I can ride with one hand!

 

[CanteringCarrot]

Barrel racing is utter shite IMO. I am around it quite a bit where I currently live. It's of absolutely no benefit to the horse. Poor posture, speed, tight turns, a rider kicking and/or whipping, and usually some interesting bits are used too. They only care about speed. The rider isn't kind to the horse's back the way they literally fly out of the saddle.

Would I trot or canter a cloverleaf pattern? Sure, but in my dressage and/or working equitation way and not repetitively.

Reining has its issues too. Since there's a reiner at our yard I've had a few rides on her horses while trying to get back into riding/preparing to back mine. A proper spin is totally weird! It was a very interesting feeling. I was a bit nervous to do a hard stop since I was pretty sure I'd jam my back up (I have SI/lower back issues).

Mostly I just sort of rode western dressage, but did a some one handed stuff that was quite valuable. It's interesting how light to the aids they can be (which I like) and how little contact you need (even without some crazy bit). It was an interesting experience, but not something I'd keep up with.

I do like practicing riding with one hand, but don't really care for western saddles for a few reasons that are related to me, not the horse.

I hope you enjoy the experience, OP!

 

[Denali]

My lesson was moved to Tuesday, but I will update afterwards if anyone is interested.

Yes, horse disciplines have their issues but I’d like to keep this thread positive.

 

[Denali]

I’m lusting after a Western saddle and horse I can ride with one hand!

I have actually been crunching numbers with my parents (they give me the unemotional perspective) and speaking to their winter neighbors (they have a working ranch in North Dakota) who breed and train ranch horses about sending one to me.

I lust after the same thing you do. And part of me will miss the access to the western world of good horsemen.