Justin and Arleah support California ’ s efforts to keep the vaquero tradition alive – a trend that is catching on in other states as well . Their efforts have included speaking and providing demonstrations at the Vaquero Heritage Days in San Juan Bautista and other events in Northern California .
As Fields explained it , part of the vaquero style of riding focuses on proper use of equipment that is specially-made to fit the horse and the task at each stage of learning . The goal is to teach the horse to respond readily and accurately to subtle cues given by the rider using a halter , a bridle , a bit and reins . A skilled rider gains the horse ’ s trust by giving the horse time to learn and adapt . This in turn gives the rider more precise control and the horse is able to perform more sophisticated tasks . The vaquero tradition extends to proper ways of rounding up and roping cattle on horseback using a riata rope , which is hand-made of rawhide .
“ Good things come to those who wait ,” Fields said . “ In the vaquero tradition you take the time that ’ s needed , which might be a year or two , to bring a horse along in its training . We don ’ t push the horses .”
At Home with Horses H
Janis McDonald moved to a ranch in San Martin 30 years ago so she could raise her children in the country and have horses . “ Living here , there is something for everyone who wants to enjoy horses ,” McDonald explained . “ So many children learn about horses through the 4H ; not many cities can claim that , and it was a big part of childhood for my daughters . We have raised horses and taken our horses to compete at shows up and down the state .”
“ I tell my friends that I don ’ t feel the need to go away on vacation . I am happy here , sitting on my back porch and watching the horses or taking them to shows . It ’ s a lifestyle that is good for the soul .”
Like the McDonalds , Michelle Bright moved to the South County with her family in 2000 after discovering the many options the area provided to horse owners .
“ I grew up with horses and got back into riding when my daughter Hillary was five years old ,” Bright said . “ We found a wonderful horse property , a great veterinarian , high-quality equestrian training programs and a horse-friendly community . My daughter and I trailer our horses to take lessons , go to shows , and do trail riding . Everything we want is nearby , but having the horses at home gives me peace of mind .”
A Gift to Our Youth H
Time and again , parents say their children have learned discipline , responsibility , confidence and compassion from horseback riding programs . Those who compete develop athleticism and a competitive spirit while gaining recognition for their achievements . And it ’ s a great bonding experience at a time when youth are often self-conscious and unsure of themselves . Many colleges offer scholarships to attract riders to their equestrian teams .
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G M H T O D A Y M A G A Z I N E MARCH / APRIL 2015 gmhtoday . com