Vaulting

Vaulting

Okay, here is a sport that not only takes flexibility; but nerve as well!

It's called "Vaulting." It's an age old sport of gymnastics done on horseback. Anyone here ever tried this?

<img src="http://www.americanvaulting.org/images/deja1.jpg" style="border:0;"/>

Vaulting is one of the seven* equestrian disciplines recognized by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) for international competition, and is most easily described as gymnastics performed on the back (or other parts) of a moving horse. As in many other forms of athletic competition (figure skating for example), participants are judged on both a set of compulsory moves, and in freestyle competition called (in German) a Kür.

With a history extending back to Roman sports, vaulting requires the teamwork of the vaulter, horse and longeur, who controls the horse in a circle on a longe line. Vaulters may compete as individuals, in pairs, or as a team.

Ladskater

Re: Vaulting

Wow! Here is another couple of pictures. Don't try this in your back yard! I think they should get 6.0s!


<img src="http://www.americanvaulting.org/images/klemon2.jpg" style="border:0;"/>



<img src="http://www.americanvaulting.org/images/frola.jpg" style="border:0;"/>


Ladskater

Re: Vaulting

Yep, I've done that! but not to the extent of turning summersaults over the horse's back. My craziness only extended as far as vaulting on and off at walk, trot, and canter, kneeling on a cantering horse's back, and a little bit of Roman riding. I used to teach vaulting to my riding students as a confidence builder. They learned that if they could do that there wouldn't be much else they could not do on horseback. The trick was to make sure they did their vaulting when a knowledgeable instructor was present, and not to try it solo without someone else controlling the horse. A lot can go wrong really fast. LOL

Blue Bead

Re: Vaulting

Blue Bead:

You have taught this? WoW! I would never have the guts to try this! I love horses and would love to ride; but, not tricks like this!

Ladskater

Re: Vaulting

Yes, Ladskater, I have taught this but it has been 15 years ago! LOL The criteria for learning these techniques stipulate, to begin,that one must be very comfortable at walk, trot, and canter in the saddle, and have at least some experience with bareback work on a lunge line. Initially, it is a really freaky sensation sitting on a horse without stirrups or reins at any gait other than a standstill for most riders. :lol: So the first time you kneel on the horse's back while maintaining some contact for balance by holding onto the security strap as the horse only (LOL) walks is a study is sheer panic. LOL Gladly with more experience the panic is greatly reduced. :lol:

Blue Bead