Cowboy Dressage: Riding, Training, and Competing with Kindness as the Goal and Guiding Principle

The equestrian pursuit known as Cowboy Dressage melds the best of Western riding traditions and classical dressage in the pursuit of a harmonious relationship with a horse. Intended to be accessible to all Cowboy Dressage is open to all breeds and all levels of riders; there isnt a set frame for overall look head carriage or action. Lifelong horsewoman Jessica Black traces the evolution of Cowboy Dressage back to its roots sharing the story of Eitan and Debbie Beth-Halachmy and their phenomenal Morgan horses that have served as the movements ambassadors. Black then expertly weaves Eitan Beth-Halachmys experience and expertise into an engaging and articulate explanation of the philosophy of Cowboy Dressage; defines the expectations of the rider; describes what a participant needs in terms of equipment; and explores how the most important elementthe horseshould be prepared. A wonderful and thorough section on groundwork as well as specific training advice for achieving engagement regulating the gaits smoothing transitions and balancing bend and straightness get the reader started with a solid foundation. Specific descriptions of the Cowboy Dressage tests are provided with additional tools for those interested in competition including rules divisions and how to execute and judge tests.