Getting Started in Cutting
In the June 2009 issue of Horse & Rider magazine, legendary horseman and Team H&R member Al Dunning helps our reader identify the characteristics of individual cattle before working them (Ask Team Horse & Rider, “Cattle 101,” starting on page 77.)
Here’s Al’s debut Team Horse & Rider article from our December 2007 issue, “Cutting Aspirations.” In this article, Al gives our reader--and you--the lowdown on what it really takes to be cutter, and how to do it without breaking the bank (cutting can be an expensive sport). He also provides detailed info about the cattle used for cutting, and what kind of horse it takes to get the job done. (To order a copy of this issue, call 940-497-4600.)
Question: I’ve always been interested in cutting, but have never had the opportunity to try it. I’ve watched cutting events at some of the big shows, and I think I’m a competent enough rider to do it. For the last two years, I’ve shown my 7-year-old Quarter Horse gelding in barrels and reining, and we’ve done quite well.
I don’t know if he’s ever had experience with cows, but he’s pretty athletic. Can I make him a cutting horse, or do I need to buy a horse specifically bred to cut? I’ve also heard that cutting can be pretty expensive. Is there a way to do it on a smaller budget?
Ben Neil
Scott City, Kan.
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Answer: Ben, I’m going to shoot straight with you--cutting is an expensive sport. Top-notch cutting horses are expensive; the show entry fees are high; and buying and maintaining cows is costly. The good news: There are ways to participate on a smaller budget. Many local clubs and NCHA affiliates offer shows for novice riders at a more affordable cost. Some provide facilities and practice sessions for riders who don’t own cows. But, if you aim to compete at the big shows, you’ll need to lay down a good chunk of change. In my following tips, I’m going to address cutting at the novice level and give you advice on how to participate without spending a fortune.
GETTING STARTED
I suggest you watch some cutting events before putting in the money, effort, and time required to pursue the sport. Since you’ve already attended some cutting shows, you’ve got a good head start, but I urge you to watch a few lower-level cutting shows. It’s important to note the differences between the big dogs and the novice riders. Only watching world-show competitors will likely leave you feeling overwhelmed and discouraged. Keep in mind that many of these riders are pros; you’ll be starting as a beginner.
Next, find a local cutting group. Go to the National Cutting Horse Association’s website to find an affiliate group in your vicinity. If you can’t find a group near you, and trailering your horse to the nearest affiliate isn’t an option, call the closest chapter and ask about your area. You might find a small group with the facilities and means to practice. You can also call NCHA’s main office and ask for suggestions, or ask fellow horsemen and women in your area or your local tack/feed store owners for leads.
Another good way to prepare is by watching instructional videos and reading books on cutting techniques--and to brush-up on your riding skills. These are also great tune-up tools prior to a competition.
Trainer, First
The most important thing on your cutting “agenda” is to find a good trainer. A good trainer will give you constructive criticism to build your self-esteem and help you enjoy the sport. Cutting is not a sport you can just “pick up” on your own. The NCHA’s website has a list of qualified trainers, so look for one in your area.
Once you have some prospects, attend several of their lessons to determine if his/her teaching style is right for you. I also suggest you observe a prospective trainer’s coaching techniques at a show to see how he works in a stressful environment. Your trainer should also provide the facilities to practice, and help you determine what tack is best for your horse (more on this below).
The Right Horse
Be logical. If you’re looking to buy a new horse, specifically for cutting, seek the expertise of your trainer. At novice shows, pay attention to the caliber of the competitors’ horses and consider one similar. And, make sure you buy a horse that suits your riding abilities--don’t buy a high-energy horse if you’re rusty on your skills or are a green or timid rider.
Do you need a horse that’s cutting-bred? That depends on how far you want to go in competition. If you’re interested in competing at the novice level, you don’t need a champion-bred cutting horse. If your current horse fits the bill athletically--he’s sound, agile, and adequately muscled for quick movements--you can most likely train him to cut well enough to compete in novice. If you aspire to compete in the big shows, look for a horse that has at least some cutting blood, and one who’s been introduced and trained with cows as a youngster. But, even if you’re showing at the novice level, your horse needs the athletic ability to move and turn quickly, meaning he’s well (but not overly) muscled and he’s flexible and supple through his front and hind ends. So, if you have a great Western pleasure horse or a reliable trail mount, don’t assume he’ll pick up cutting as well as he does his other job. For this particular riding sport, that’s like trying to fit a round peg into a square hole.
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