This article will provide an introduction to the fascinating world of model horse western tack. The Western horsemanship realm offers a diverse range of events, games, and styles, each with their unique take on the customary Western tack set. In showy Western Pleasure classes and parades, silver “bling” is a popular choice, although it would be impractical for horse and rider in a speed event like barrel racing. The main focus of this article will be on the distinctions between the two broad categories of western tack: western pleasure and working western.
Western Pleasure
Not only is Western Pleasure tack used in the western pleasure class, but it is also utilized in various other classes such as western trail, horsemanship, western riding, western equitation, sometimes reining, and others. The common thread among these classes is that they involve horses moving at a relatively slow pace, showcasing how enjoyable they are to ride. Western pleasure tack can vary from modest silver corner plates to being adorned with crystals from front to back. Additionally, the riders often wear similarly dazzling outfits, resulting in a complete picture of shimmer and glamour from head to toe.
Working Western
Working Western tack is utilized in various working western events such as challenging cow classes, gymkhana (although Western pleasure gaming tac has become increasingly glitzy), ranch horse trail, timed trail trials, un-judged natural trail riding, and events that prioritize durability over ornate embellishments. The working tack typically exhibits a darker hue and incorporates additional fitting elements like a back cinch or breastcollar. Depending on the specific event they are engaged in, working western riders will sport functional attire that can differ significantly.
Brief Performance Tips
Performing is like telling a story in a single moment. The first step is to ensure that all elements of your setup are correct, clean, and safe. It’s important to keep your story in mind as you construct your entry. Each part of your performance entry should actively contribute to the story you imagine. Considering coordinating colors for your model horse entry can be a helpful idea. While it’s unlikely in real life for a rider to have a show jacket and saddle pad that match the color of the ground poles in a trail obstacle, it is possible – and the show photographer would most likely be thrilled to capture such photos! In the world of models, we have the luxury of choosing all the elements we place on the table. Opting for colors that go well together can elevate your entry to another level.
Western Pleasure Basics
In the western pleasure class, all horses are required to enter the ring on the rail, starting in either direction. All three gaits will be called for in each direction, and horses must reverse at the walk to the inside of the pen. After completing the rail work, horses may be asked to back, either in position on the rail or from a center lineup. Although it is possible for a judge to request additional work, this is not commonly done. The rider will only be asked to dismount if the judge wants to inspect the equipment.
The equipment needed includes a standard western saddle and bridle, with silver that should not exceed a good working outfit. A junior horse, which is five years and under, can be ridden with two hands using a bosal or snaffle bit. It is important for the bosal to be flexible and made of braided leather or rawhide without a rigid core. On the other hand, a senior horse, which is six years and older, must be ridden with one hand and a curb (shank) bit. Make sure to refer to your rulebook for detailed descriptions and measurements of allowed snaffles, curb bits, curb chains, and straps. Additional equipment that can be used includes a rope or reata, hobbles attached to the saddle, breast collar, and spurs. However, there are certain items that are not allowed, such as boots, wraps and bandages, martingales, and nosebands. The required attire consists of pants, a long-sleeved shirt, blouse, or jacket with a collar, a western hat, and western boots. Chaps are optional in most associations. In some associations, hard hats or safety helmets are now considered optional.
Faults are scored based on their severity. These faults include excessive speed or slowness, incorrect lead, breaking gait, failure to maintain gait when required, touching the horse or saddle with the free hand, carrying the head too high or low, overflexing (head behind the vertical), excessive nosing out, horse opening mouth excessively, stumbling, using spurs ahead of the cinch, sullen, dull, tired, or emaciated horse, choppy strides, too much drape in the reins, horse excessively canted at the lope, bolting or bucking, and refusal to back.
Disqualifications in this event include: either the horse or rider falling; the use of unauthorized equipment; having both hands on the reins (unless using a snaffle or bosal); switching hands while holding the reins; having more than one finger between the reins when using split reins; and displaying obvious signs of lameness.
Divisions, such as all-ages or senior horse, junior horse, three-year-old (in Appaloosa and Paint shows without the option to compete in the junior horse division), and two-year-old, are offered by the breed association. Additionally, there are divisions for youth, amateur (non-pro), novice amateur, and any other divisions provided by the breed association. It is important to note that two-year-olds cannot be shown under saddle before certain dates outlined in each rulebook: January 1 for APHA, May 20 for ApHC, June 1 for ApHCC, and July 1 for AQHA. It is recommended to refer to your respective rulebook for further details.
