I understand that our conversations morph quickly, but when I started this subject line, I wasn't talking about cutting horses. That's a whole 'nuther ball of wax, from the way I've heard the warnings against the use of legs on Icelandics.
How is it different? If I understand the sport of cutting correctly, it's the goal is to let the horse do the work. The rider is supposed to move with the horse, right, no matter how many zigs and zags the horse makes. The cutting riders also can't use their reins, right? So, what's left for the rider to use? Seat, and balance, right? Do cutting horse trainers advise normal, beginner-type trail/pleasure riders to ride like cutting riders, on non-cutting-trained horses? I don't think so! But, I've heard Icelandic trainers (and their disciples) advice middle-aged American pleasure riders not to use their legs on a given horse. Yep. It's a whole 'nuther ball of wax entirely! Karen Thomas, NC No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.503 / Virus Database: 269.16.17/1177 - Release Date: 12/7/2007 1:11 PM
