They started with just a little warm up in the arena, then headed over to the big pen(excuse my lack of cow terminology). 2 riders would go in at a time, with 2 cows. Each would pick one, and follow. Just follow, not chase, or get ahead. When every rider had done that, they would follow, and then ride up next to the cow until it made a change...any change! Change of direction or speed, or anything. It was interesting to see how a rider would try to convince a cow to back up, or stop. When the 2 cows would get next to each other, the riders would follow until they decided to separate. Didn't even know that would ever happen! ha. When the horse would build up some speed, Dave said not to pull to stop, but let the cow stop or slow down the horse. Just keep his nose pointed at that tail! 9 step back up, then shoot the cow, and walk out.
Then the whole group came into the pen(about 12 riders I think) and stood in a circle facing each other, and brought the cattle into the center of that circle. One rider would just circle quietly around the cattle, and easily slip through the middle of the herd, and then take their place back in the circle, and the next rider would go. After that the rider would circle, slip into the center of the herd, stop(to keep the herd split in 2) and then pick 1 cow. And would follow the 1 cow until he was on the outside of the herd(who would move back into a circled clump).
All of this was very calmly done, and really seemed to give the riders time to think about what they were doing, and what to do next. I also think it was a huge confidence builder for the horses who seemed skeptical of the cattle.
Dave told several people to put slack in the rein and slide their hands down when they wanted to turn, instead of keeping short reins. But I really saw the focus of the riders change, and saw their skills come out naturally when they were given a job. It was very cool.
Was a great day, and I just love going to clinics. VERY addicting!!! I can't wait to learn more!
Also Rascal coliced yesterday =( He's okay after hours of walking and a little banamine. But I was worried about the little man. He's an awesome pony and I love learning from him. Glad he's okay, and I hope he has a bright future ahead of him.
But my legs sure hurt after that much walking, and then sitting on those bleachers today!
