Riders in rough terrain, riders of buckers, riders who have developed a sense of "thrust/counter thrust" learn to use their whole bodies as balancing tools. This includes sticking their legs out "on the dashboard", if the situation calls for it, which can seem quite at odds with the "fixed" and overly stylized equitation poses that sometimes get ribbons in shows. "Outdoor" riders don`t sweat that posing stuff. Like Western artists Russell`s and Remington`s cowboys and Indians, they ride to function first, form second. When appropriate, the good riders can be as stylish as anyone, but never in a posed way.
Amie, Aaron, Kasia, Robyn, Orianna and Quest
Angela Volk photo
