"Extreme" Trail Class -- Anyone done one?

Hello,
I just watched an incredible video on You Tube of an extreme trail class, and it was amazing - the obstacles & the horse!!

Is this a common event ? Has anyone ever participated in one?? I would LOVE to put one together, but not sure how many people would actually attend... even as a learning experience, not necessarily a competition.

I haven't, but I REALLY want to do one!! They look so fun!

It seems like those types of competitions are becoming more and more common. I really like the looks of them and would like to see them more often and in more places. I have never competed in any, but if there were some in my area, I would love to. They are much more realistic and entertaining than many of the trail classes you see in horse shows.

The course that they are running seems fairly similar to Craig Cameron's Extreme Cowboy Race.

Wow that looks amazing, they must have such a good bond!

I haven't but I would LOVE to. My gelding Rebel would totally rock at something like that.

I just wanted to share ^^^ SorrelHorse, your signature made me laugh out loud :)

They have that event at "Equine Affaire" (at least the one in New England) each year. I participated a few years back and it was a great experience. They called it a "versatility" competition. Several videos on YouTube of various competitors.

This is something that seems to be growing. A local barn here has started their own.

One of the keys to get this going is to organize practices. Get interested people together, set up various obstacles and let them try. As you build of base of "regulars" it becomes easier to organize competitions and events.

Many places get sponsors and have added money, which always draws more people.

The toughest thing to set up in this is the judging. Each obstacle needs a judge to evaluate performance (if working in an arena or small space, one judge can do it all). Frankly, I never understood the workings of this subjective element which comprises the majority of the score.

Sure we do it every weekend on an average trail ride. Just no judges.





Sorry couldn't resist. I don't do shows. But I can see where being proficient at this class would be a asset to a good trail horse.

Actually, I think it is the opposite. IMO being a proficient trail horse is an asset to those who want to participate in the competition.


BTW - great pictures. I am jealous.

PaintedHorse, GREAT photos!! I am jealous also. I live in Florida, we have lots of flat cattle lands, sand & swamps to explore - no cool rocks or hills or mountains! :)