Cutting - Runs October 26

[Armand Raletha]

Run Date: October 26, 2008
Show Type: Cutting

All that is expected is the ability of the horse to single out a single cow (calf) and keep it away from the rest of the herd with little to no interfernce of the rider. You'll be expected to single out three different animals from the herd and keep them from the herd for about five minutes per animal before allowing them to return to the herd.

[Riata Hill]

That horse knows just what to do- don't you interfere with his instincts. He'll choose you over his insticts... Then the judge will choose somebody else over you.

Her father's words from many years ago melodically entered her head. This was her first show at Vision Springs- it was just like the rest. RJ knew what to do, he had plenty of cow in him; she just had to choose a cow, single 'im out, and let RJ do the rest of the work.

"Up next we have number thirty-seven, number thirty-seven, Riata Hill on Racket Jack Texas."

Riata cued the buckskin with her calves, and RJ immediately stepped out in an eager walk. The expression on his face showed much interest and awareness, but also calm and easiness. Riata looked up at one of the turn-back men from under her hat brim; he offered a reassuring smile and a nod of his head.

Horse and rider passed the turn-back men; Riata's skilled eye studied the herd. She wanted three good head- as did every cutter. Lord knows that rarely happens... But it could, if she chose carefully. RJ entered the herd quietly, now at full alert, readily awaiting his rider's cue for the cut. One yellow steer made a sharp move to avoid the buckskin under saddle; Riata countered it to cut him back. He should do fine- 4 more head went with him to the outer edge of the herd. The black fell behind, the baldy darted to the side, but the red stuck. Riata made a trotting charge towards the head of the red heifer, and she turned hastily; Riata now redirected her attention to the yellow steer who eyed her warily. One step from RJ towards him, and the steer lurched forward- RJ pushed off his hocks and launched after him, causing the steer to pivot away from the herd and gelding; one of the turn-back men did just his job and directed the yellow back into the herd. But Riata was right there to work him.

For about a minute she

TO BE FINISHED