[iamanequestrian]

I would like to start riding more western. I'd like to get into trying something new like cow sorting and goat tying. I'm not sure how to go about this though. What kind of actions should I take?

Background: I've rode western for four years and English for two. Iv'e shown in western pleasure classes, gymkhanas, and english classes flat and 2'3 o/f. I ride percherons at the farm I work at, I have a Quarter Pony, and ride my instructors horses often.

 

[Freemare]

First thing is. To do lots of reading. You need to know all the rules and such for the sport you are looking into starting. Next if you can afford it. Look for a trainer that can help you get started. That would be the best way to go. I myself do, western pleasure, polls, trail...etc I am mostly a driver and western rider.

 

[cowgirlnay]

Best way is to look for trainers in your area. Also check out any clubs that might be in your area that have practices you can go watch. Team penning, ranch sorting, anything like that usually has weekly/monthly practices. If you start up with a trainer, they may have a lesson horse you can use, but if not, keep in mind that you will also need a horse that is suitable for that type of riding. Cutting and team penning for example, are very fun, but the horse needs quite a bit of professional training first. Putting a green horse with a green rider into a new sport usually doesn't work out very well.

 

[KayceeJo]

It is a good idea to get a trainer, or at least ride with somebody that has had some experience in the sport. Team penning is a great place to start. You do some cutting and cattle work, and depending on where you live there can be lots of events. Where I am at, there is a penning every weekend Fridays, Saturdays, and usually Sundays as well, all within an hour of my place at different arenas. The horse is going to be a big part of it to. A cowy horse will defiantly be a plus. Just remember- practice makes perfect.