One of the most famous race horses in history was born on March 29, 1917 in Lexington, Kentucky.  The owner was August Belmont, son of the famous influential banker for whom the Belmont Stakes, and Belmont Park in New York was named.  Belmont had carefully prepared . . . → Read More: One Of The Best Known Race Horses]]> The Most Famous Race Horse

One of the most famous race horses in history was born on March 29, 1917 in Lexington, Kentucky.  The owner was August Belmont, son of the famous influential banker for whom the Belmont Stakes, and Belmont Park in New York was named.  Belmont had carefully prepared for the colt by breeding from pedigreed Arabian stock on the sire’s side to the most respected English stock on the dam’s. But his plans were put on hold because America had entered World War I which engrossed the world and Belmont, at age 65, volunteered to serve.  He was sent to France by the U.S. Army, his duties included preparing mules for the service.  Belmont’s wife named the new foal “My Man O’ War” in honor of her husband.  As the war dragged on, Belmont wired home for his wife to sell the 1917 string of yearlings including Man O’ War, (“My” had been dropped.)

Samuel Riddle of Glenn Riddle, Pa. purchased several yearlings from Mrs Belmont including Man O’ War.  Riddle was a textile tycoon and relatively new to big time racing but he was immediately impressed by the attitude and look of the big chestnut colt.  His intuition would not go unnoticed.  He had the colt shipped by train to the Riddle farm in Worcester County, Maryland.  By the spring of 1919 the blinding speed that Big Red, (as he had been nicknamed), was setting in his training times suggested to Riddle that he had acquired a remarkable horse.

In his first official race of 1919, Man O’ War won so easily in a field of outstanding young racehorses that his jockey was standing up in the irons looking back at the field as he crossed the finish line.  Where ever the big colt raced that year he won, and it is reported that he crushed existing North American records.  In one race at Belmont Park in 1920 he won by 100 lengths! His presence guaranteed unprecedented attendance for he seemed to electrify racing fans. Security had to constantly protect the horse against fans trying to pull keepsake hairs from his body, while constant threats on his life made it necessary to hire detectives to guard him at all times.  At one time, Riddle was offered a signed blank check by a Texas millionaire to be made out in any amount for the big horse.  Riddle refused to sell. He didn’t run him in the Kentucky Derby for training reasons but later that year, he easily beat the winner of the Derby as well as winning the Preakness and the Belmont Stakes.

Man O’ War went on to win every race he was ever entered in except one, establishing records that stood until the invention of the aluminum horse shoe and the changing of the race track surface.  The only race that he ever lost was ironically to a horse named Upset, though he went on to convincingly beat this horse several times thereafter.  This is where the term “it’s an upset” came from. That one loss is surrounded by mystery and subtle hints of possible wrong doing on the part of the track officials.  His last official race was run in October of 1920 after Riddle had decided it would hurt the horse to have to carry the increasing handicap weight that was assigned to him.  In this last race, he easily ran away from the winner of the 1919 Triple Crown in a match race.

In retirement, Man O’ War continued to set records by siring champions.  Of the almost 400 foals that he sired, more than 200 of them became champions in their own right.  Two of the more famous were Battleship, who won the English Grand National Steeplechase, and War Admiral, who was the 1938 Triple Crown winner.  He died of a heart attack in 1947 at Riddle’s Faraway Farm in Kentucky, at thirty years old. 

Across from the farm is a narrow dirt road called Holly Grove.  About a half mile down this country lane one will find what is left of a former railroad.  The tracks are gone now.  Holly Grove is shaded by forests of gum, oak and holly trees.  If one stops their car and gets out they will immediately be struck by the stillness.  In the quiet one can imagine a train of long ago arriving and large numbers of local people gathering to watch the arrival of the champions and the new foals.  High spirited thoroughbred horses, each carefully handled by its own groom were led down the ramps while trainers nervously looked on.  The whole procession would start the short walk towards the farm along the sandy road with the grooms quietly talking to the horses to put them at ease.  Each year the number of people who witnessed this annual event grows smaller.  Soon only the trees will remain.  The Riddle heirs reportedly have recently sold the 1500 acre training farm with its one mile racing oval to Arizona investors.  Permits are presently being processed for a planned community complete with golf course and marina on the adjacent creek.  Man O’ War and the Glen Riddle Farm will be remembered however as true gems of the rich heritage of Worcester County, Maryland.

The most popular form of horse racing in the whole world is Thoroughbred horse racing and got so popular that some horse racing fans do not know of any other form of horse racing. Thoroughbred horse racing is also known as the . . . → Read More: Racing]]> Thoroughbred Horse Racing and Their Various Forms

Author: James Murray

The most popular form of horse racing in the whole world is Thoroughbred horse racing and got so popular that some horse racing fans do not know of any other form of horse racing. Thoroughbred horse racing is also known as the “sport of kings” by some horse racing fans. A thoroughbred horse owner would hire a trainer to condition and train his horse for only one form of horse race, because a good trainer will know that there are training regimens for every type of horse race.

Sometimes an owner will opt to enter his horse in races that are similar to what the horse is being trained for. Thoroughbred horse racing comes in a number of different forms.

a) Maiden races, this type of thoroughbred horse racing places untested horses against one another and it is the debut of all these race horses. Some horse racing fans like this type of thoroughbred horse racing to be more exciting because of the fact that all the horses involved have not raced before. The whole career of a race horse in their maiden race often determines their future success and shows the world just what a race horse is capable of doing. In maiden races, thoroughbreds of varying ages participate. In this type of thoroughbred horse racing, in order to even the odds, horses carry similar weights and no handicapped penalties are involved.

b) Allowance racing, this type of thoroughbred horse racing involves horses that have already raced in their maiden race but are not ready for the grand stakes races. Usually, this type of thoroughbred horse racing involves racing for a purse that is higher then the purse involved in maiden races and owners use this type of race to train their horses.

c) Grand stakes racing, this type of thoroughbred horse racing is the most popular form with horse racing fans since it will involve a lot of money. Horse racing fans like this form of thoroughbred horse racing so they can wager money on their favorite race horse. The “grand stakes” in this race the reputation of the horse is on the line and also the amount of money involved. A grand stakes race winner usually becomes a celebrity among race horses. In this type of thoroughbred horse racing, the dreams of countless horse racing fans are also at stake because wagering in this type of thoroughbred horse racing can cost a lot of money. Some horse racing fans like to put their hopes and dreams on only one horse and that is the reason why thoroughbred horse racing will remain supported by horse racing fans all over the world today.

d) Handicap race, this type of thoroughbred horse racing is the evenest of all horse races, theoretically. The reason is that all the horses racing in this event have been handicapped according to their past performances in other horse races. More horse racing fans wager at this type of thoroughbred horse racing and the reason is that all of the odds are even. Theoretically, any horse has a chance to be a winner in a handicap race.

Although thoroughbred horse racing gains popularity because of the money involved, there are horseracing fans who see it as a great test of spirit. There are horses which have the potential to be great and real winners. However, if that horse did not have the will to win, then the potential would forever be useless. Thoroughbred horse racing is not just a game, it is a reflection of life.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/thoroughbred-horse-racing-and-their-various-forms-199580.html

About the Author: James Murray is a successful writer and online gambling expert providing valuable tips and advice for those interested in gambling and online gambling strategies. His numerous articles found on the Internet ,provide useful and factual gambling information and insight. Some of his websites are http://www.casinospokerrooms.com , http://www.bingosbingos.com , http://www.top-sportsbook.ca.

Barrel racing is a tough sport on both rider and horse. Barrel horses are athletes that need to be in really good condition when running barrels. A horse that is not in good condition and started on barrels may get sore . . . → Read More: Barrel Horse]]> How To Condition A Barrel Horse For Competition

Author: Ron Petracek

Barrel racing is a tough sport on both rider and horse. Barrel horses are athletes that need to be in really good condition when running barrels. A horse that is not in good condition and started on barrels may get sore and associate the pain with running barrels. This can lead to problems that are hard to correct.

If you plan on starting a horse on barrels or are getting a seasoned horse back into shape, start on their conditioning before putting them on the barrel pattern. Long trotting and slow loping are the best two ways to get a horse in top condition. These gaits will build up muscle and lung capacity allowing the horse to perform better and not be gasping for air after a run. Part of getting your horse into shape is building his lung capacity and stamina.

Having an exercise program for your horse is the best way to monitor what exercise your horse is getting. This makes it easier to add or take away parts of the program according to his condition and needs. Find a good, safe place to exercise your horse. An arena is good because of the cushion of the dirt or sand, but can become very boring for both you and your horse. If you have a large pasture you can do most of the exercising there. Dirt roads without rocks are good for this because the scenery isn’t so repetitive. Make sure that you don’t exercise your horse on ground that is too hard, like on roadways, cement or icy ground. Always put protective boots on your horse’s legs before riding to protect his legs from injury.

To get your barrel horse in condition you should work up to riding him six to eight miles three or four days a week. These days should consist of warming up with a walk, long trotting and slow loping. In the beginning you should do more walking and slowly take the walking time and add it to the trotting and loping segments. After walking a half of a mile, alternate long trotting and slow loping for a half of a mile. Do this for a week and then add another half of a mile. It can take months to reach the full six to eight miles, but getting a horse in top condition takes time and patience.

Of course, if your horse is in good shape before starting the program you may increase the mileage faster. On the days you aren’t following the exercise program you should your horse lightly or exercise him in a round pen. Allow your horse at least one day off a week to rest and relax. Turn him out in a pasture to run freely or lay around. This allows his muscles to still work, but at his own, natural pace. This also allows him to relax and not become bored with the exercise program.

After following this program for about 90 days you should see a vast improvement in your horse’s condition and stamina. He is almost at his peak performance at this point. Now you can add a sprint to your exercise program on one day of the week. Start out with a walk and trot to get his muscles warmed up and stretched. Ask your horse for a sprint for about 250 yards. Ask for as much speed as he will give you, allowing him to run as fast as he can. Slowly bring him down to a lope, trot and then a walk. Walk him until his breathing is even and he is cooled down. This does not need to be done more than once a week. If you are running your horse at a barrel race almost every weekend, you can skip this part of the workout.

Once you start competing regularly this rigorous exercise program can be cut down to a maintenance program. If you are competing almost every weekend you can shorten the exercise down to 45 minutes of walking, trotting and loping three to four days a week. Always be sure and give your horse at least one day off a week and don’t ride him hard every single day. Horses get bored with routine and can start to misbehave.

Remember to not work him too hard the day of or the day just before a competition. Want to discuss your favorite horse event? Stop by our resource links below and join our community. We would love to see you there.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/how-to-condition-a-barrel-horse-for-competition-409361.html

About the Author: Ron Petracek was raised in Souther Idaho,with a black morgan as his adventure companion. His Love for horses has expanded into the largest equine classified network on the internet to date with horse articles,classifieds and social networking. Amazing Equine Network System – Buy Sell or trade anything equine related. Get More Horse Classified coverage and distribution with less cost and work. Amazing Horse Forum

Dressage achieves balance, suppleness, and obedience with the purpose of improving and facilitating the horse’s performance of normal tasks. This discipline is elegance in motion, where every movement made by horse and rider is choreographed to perfection. Speed is not important, but total control . . . → Read More: Dressage]]> Understanding the Art of Dressage

Author: Fran Black

Dressage achieves balance, suppleness, and obedience with the purpose of improving and facilitating the horse’s performance of normal tasks. This discipline is elegance in motion, where every movement made by horse and rider is choreographed to perfection. Speed is not important, but total control of the horse is. This requires the horse and rider to combine the strength and agility of gymnastics with the elegance and beauty of ballet. Sometimes the horses are said to be ‘dancing’ but this is not really the case.

In dressage competition, riders perform individually and they ride in a pattern which includes several changes in pace and direction. In its most basic stages, dressage helps the horse and rider communicate with each other and develop balance, strength, flexibility and accuracy. The dressage tests are a prescribed series of movements that each horse must perform.

Riders use the natural movements of horses to create a dance, signaling the horse to walk, trot, or canter. It takes years to teach a top dressage horse to compete at high levels. At the most advanced level of dressage, the horse will still require years of training to reach Grand Prix level. Strong dressage riders have learned how to effectively communicate with the horse through proper position and movement.

Overall, a good dressage horse must show lightness, cadence, beautiful soft rounded collection and outstanding elasticity of all movements. The object of dressage is the harmonious development of the physique and ability of the horse. Both horsemanship and equestrianism must be mastered before attempting a dressage competition. All work in dressage should be free, light, aesthetically beautiful to the observer, and the horse should remain on the bit. With almost invisible aids, the dressage rider brings the horse to the highest degree of collection.

Dressage has an undeniable athletic component for both horse and rider. Dressage achieves balance, suppleness, and obedience with the purpose of improving and facilitating the horse’s performance of normal tasks. This discipline is elegance in motion, where every movement made by horse and rider is choreographed to perfection.

Speed is not important, but total control of the horse is. This requires the horse and rider to combine the strength and agility of gymnastics with the elegance and beauty of ballet. Sometimes the horses are said to be ‘dancing’ but this is not really the case. In dressage competition, riders perform individually and they ride in a pattern which includes several changes in pace and direction.

In its most basic stages, dressage helps the horse and rider communicate with each other and develop balance, strength, flexibility and accuracy.

The dressage tests are a prescribed series of movements that each horse must perform. Riders use the natural movements of horses to create a dance, signaling the horse to walk, trot, or canter. It takes years to teach a top dressage horse to compete at high levels. At the most advanced level of dressage, the horse will still require years of training to reach Grand Prix level. Strong dressage riders have learned how to effectively communicate with the horse through proper position and movement.

Overall, a good dressage horse must show lightness, cadence, beautiful soft rounded collection and outstanding elasticity of all movements. The object of dressage is the harmonious development of the physique and ability of the horse. Both horsemanship and equestrianism must be mastered before attempting a dressage competition. All work in dressage should be free, light, aesthetically beautiful to the observer, and the horse should remain on the bit. With almost invisible aids, the dressage rider brings the horse to the highest degree of collection. Dressage has an undeniable athletic component for both horse and rider.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/understanding-the-art-of-dressage-29810.html

About the Author: Rob Daniels has been an equestrian rider for 25 years. He has studied various disciplines additional articles are available at: Riding Stable – http://www.riding-stable.com and Horse Stall http://www.horse-stall.net

When it comes to weekends at the rodeo, riders and their horses must be equally athletic. Particularly when it comes to the rodeo’s timed events – barrel racing, steer wrestling and calf roping – athleticism is essential. The success of the rodeo cowboy is . . . → Read More: Calf Roping]]> Choosing the Right Horse For Calf Roping

Author: Phil Wiskell

When it comes to weekends at the rodeo, riders and their horses must be equally athletic. Particularly when it comes to the rodeo’s timed events – barrel racing, steer wrestling and calf roping – athleticism is essential. The success of the rodeo cowboy is measured as much by having the right horse, as it is by the cowboy’s athletic skills and timing. In timed events, horses must be willing and able to respond well to their riders, make quick turns and be able to burst forward at full speed, when it is necessary to do so. Because of their strong hind legs and muscular power, it is most often the American Quarter Horse that is used in rodeo events.

Given that the American Quarter Horse got its name because the breed clocks the fastest quarter mile runs, it’s little wonder that, when it comes to timed events in the rodeo ring, Quarter Horses are used for barrel racing and steer wrestling and are considered to be great calf roping horses as well. Calf roping horses aren’t just in the rodeo ring for their speed and precision; they play a greater role in the event as well. For those who are unfamiliar with calf roping, the event involves the calf roping horse, his rider and a calf. The roping horses are brought up to a full gallop; the rider throws the lasso around the calf and dismounts. The horse then backs up enough to keep tension on the rope while the rider ties the calf. When he returns to the horse, the rider mounts and the tension on the lasso rope is eased to determine whether or not the calf will remain tied. Calf roping horses, therefore, not only need to be trained and athletic in order to work with the bursts of speed and sudden stops, but also they need to be able to respond well to their riders.

The relationship that calf roping horses have with their riders is essential to the success that will be had during this exciting competitive event. Therefore, when most riders look to buy a horse as a calf roping horse, temperament and intelligence are characteristics that most horse buyers are looking to find in a horse. Calf roping horses – as well as all American Quarter Horses that are going to be used on a ranch and in similar settings – should have a calm disposition, and they should be able to respond quickly to their riders and the situation where they are used.

As with shopping for most products, when you are looking at any horse, you’ll want to determine how you will be using the horse. Those who are going to be riding in rodeo events on a regular basis – in other words, a rider who will be taking his calf roping horses from one rodeo to another and competing as a professional athlete – will probably be looking at a horse differently than someone who intends to compete in only a few events during the year. In other words, those who will be training their horses for a few weekend rodeos are more likely to be looking at American Quarter Horses that are not only adept in the rodeo ring, but that also are comfortable working throughout the week at the ranch.

Of course, other individuals may be looking at calf roping horses that they have seen during rodeo events and may decide to choose a Quarter Horse as a cattle horse, solely for use on their own ranch without the intention of competing.

Many ranchers find that the calf roping horse is well-trained and well-suited for average, everyday activities in the ranching business. Of course, the right calf roping horse for one rider isn’t always going to be the right horse for another. When looking at horses for sale, if you are looking at Quarter Horses particularly for calf roping, it’s important to choose a horse that a good fit. In some cases, that will mean choosing a horse that’s solid and gentle and will be great for those who are learning the sport. In other cases, it will mean a taller horse, for others it will mean a shorter horse: it’s a matter of personal comfort and preference. As always, you’ll want to be sure that the horse is in good health, that its legs and back are strong enough to carry your weight, and that the horse you choose either is already in great shape or can easily be conditioned for your chosen competitive sport or other use.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/choosing-the-right-horse-for-calf-roping-457377.html

About the Author: Phil Wiskell is a writer for HorseClicks.com, popular classifieds of horses for sale , horse property and trailers for sale .

Sometimes, there’s nothing more beautiful than a horse running across the fields and what makes this scenery more wonderful is the fact that we can be there, riding that horse. It is a fact that horses are among the favorite animals of many of us and fortunately, people who are interested . . . → Read More: Description of Sport Horse Ireland]]> Author: Anne Tide

Sometimes, there’s nothing more beautiful than a horse running across the fields and what makes this scenery more wonderful is the fact that we can be there, riding that horse. It is a fact that horses are among the favorite animals of many of us and fortunately, people who are interested in purchasing horses have at their disposal a variety of offers.

Ireland is known throughout the world for its horses, for breeding and dressage of famous horses ireland. It is difficult to translate into words the charm of these horses, which are carefully selected to suit every customer’s ability. This country seems to be made for breeding the finest horses.

The sport horse

Ireland can enjoy the perfect environment of limestone rich soil and lush grass. The great Irish breeds have a long tradition and we treat our horses with the proper seriousness. Many horses are produced in Ireland and the Irish breeders have the government on their side when it comes to breeding.

The Irish Draught breeding is found in many top class competitions, including eventing, showing and dressage. The sport horse ireland has a graceful carriage of head and neck and strong limbs with short cannon bones. The horses ireland are active horses, with substance and quality; they are intelligent and gentle, being famous for their docility and sense. The horses ireland are riding and work horses of economic importance.

There are a couple of important different sport horses in Ireland: the Irish Draught horse, the Irish Hunter, the Irish Cob and the Connemara Pony. The Draught horse is the classical racing horse, reaching a size of 160 to 170 cm. The Draught sport horse ireland has firm legs with strong joints and chords, large hooves, long neck and a noble head. The Irish Draught is a horse of the countryside and an environment product, but it cannot be considered a distinctive breed the way European farm horses are. Usually these horses are used in workhorse, karossier and riding. The horse dealers who came to Ireland in order tom purchase horses gave them the name of Irish Draught. Nowadays the Irish Draught is widely known, playing a major role as the foundation breed of sport horse ireland. The Irish Hunter came as a result of the crossing of an Irish Draught with an English full blood horse. This sport horse ireland is used frequently as a riding horse and in show jumping. The Irish Cob is not a genuine horse race, although it is the most frequent type of horse that can be found in Ireland, his size ranging from 140 cm to 160 cm.

The horses ireland have an incredible temperament, intelligence and a sane mind, they are easy to train and they learn quickly, being versatile. Furthermore, these horses have an exceptional constitution, well-defined withers, free-moving shoulders and amble chests. Even if strength is an obvious feature, horses ireland are neither heavy nor ponderous. The head of sport horse ireland is nicely proportioned, giving the animal a handsome appearance. The horses in Ireland have played an important role, ever since show jumping became an international sport, the Irish sport horse being one of the top sport horse breeds all over the world. These horses are safe, reliable and they take care of their riders, these traits being unequalled by any other breeds from all over the world.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/description-of-sport-horse-ireland-337067.html

About the Author: Do you love horses and you are thinking of buying or renting an Irish horse? Search no more since we offer you horses ireland of the best quality. Our sport horse ireland has unique traits, being a great and a reliable companion.

Natural horsemanship is the philosophy of training a horse using its natural body language and movements. Practitioners use a wide variety of techniques to yield the same result: a bond of trust between the horse and its trainer or rider. The trust that develops between the horse and rider during natural . . . → Read More: Natural Horsemanship for All Horses]]> Author: Jeanine Lowry

Natural horsemanship is the philosophy of training a horse using its natural body language and movements. Practitioners use a wide variety of techniques to yield the same result: a bond of trust between the horse and its trainer or rider. The trust that develops between the horse and rider during natural horsemanship training techniques is applicable across all disciplines: eventing, working, dressage, and riding for pleasure.

Eventing Horses trained for eventing, which includes show jumping, dressage and a strenuous cross-country course, are pushed to the limit of their physical and mental ability each time they compete. The horse must be 100% sound, and is tested at each step of the competition. The cross-country course is the most dangerous portion of the competition, as it is a course composed of miles of terrain traversed at fast speeds, and dozens of extremely solidly build jumps. Only a horse that has full trust in its rider can be highly successful at eventing. That is where natural horsemanship training comes in. Natural horsemanship techniques build the bond of trust between horse and rider so that when the rider asks the horse to do something new, challenging and potentially frightening, the horse trusts the rider enough to take the risk.

Working Horses

Working horses still play a large part in ranching and farming operations. While some heard cattle, sheep and other animals with ATVs or other vehicles, a horse is still the only method of safe transportation to the most remote areas. Out in the wide open spaces of pastureland, and mountainous areas, hazards abound. Holes, snakes, other animals, rockslides, and unstable terrain lurk. It is essential that a horse traversing such country is able to remain calm throughout the journey. It is also essential for the rider to be able to read subtle signals from their horse in order to avert danger. Animals can most often sense a change in conditions before people can. Only the rider best in-tune with their horse will be able to pick up on cues from the horse.

Pleasure Riding

The goal of most horse owners is to have fun with their horses. Fun happens most when there is no fear. Horses are large in size with powerful teeth and legs. For horses, humans can seem abrupt and unpredictable. Together those characteristics can create a culture of worry and fear. Natural horsemanship training helps absolve the fear and build communication bridges between horse and rider and horse and trainer. When humans learn to speak “horse,” they will find that they can do almost anything with their horses.

Dressage

Dressage training builds muscle and balance in horses and riders. Some consider classical dressage to be the original source of natural horsemanship.

Whether riding for pleasure or competition, balance and communication established through natural horsemanship techniques helps the dressage horse and rider achieve a higher level of precision and grace.

Natural Horsemanship for All

Whatever a horse’s primary occupation, natural horsemanship techniques take the horse to the next level. The trust, stamina, strength and communication horses and riders achieve by practicing natural horsemanship translate from the ranch to the show ring, and every situation in between. To learn more about natural horsemanship and to connect with others practicing the techniques, visit http://www.aanh.net

http://www.aanh.net Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/natural-horsemanship-for-all-horses-425173.html

About the Author: Jeanine Lowry is founder and head of the American Association of Natural Horsemen. Visit the AANH on the web at http://www.aanh.net

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