The Art of Hackamore Training A Time-Honored Step in the Bridle-Horse Tradition
ROSS HECOX
Al Dunning and Benny Guitron with Deanna Lally Photographs by Robert Dawson
One-on-one instruction can be difficult at a large clinic. Be sure to approach the clinician with respect for other participants.
you’ve accurately understood all the steps to accomplish the maneuver you’re working on. “If you’re working on a lead change, the process includes multiple steps, and if you skip a couple of those steps it will be harder to execute,” he says. “Writing it down and clarifying any step you’re unsure of will help you practice better at home.” Henson says that if you come away with two or three tips that are useful, then you’re doing well. He encourages riders to ask questions. Clinicians use questions to get a better idea of what level riders are at and what may help them improve. “Don’t be afraid to hold your hand up and ask questions,” he says. “Interaction helps with the flow and makes sure you get the tips you need.” Realistically, it can be difficult to get much one-on-one interaction at a clinic with more than 20 riders. In this case, Baldus suggests pursuing the clinician without being disrespectful to the group.
In larger clinics, Baldus demonstrates a maneuver and then has riders break into smaller groups and practice. It could be 15 or 20 minutes before he gets to each rider. “I suggest that riders try it for a few minutes and then wait for me to get to them or speak up and ask me to watch what they are doing,” he says. “That way they aren’t tiring their horse out while they are waiting for me.” Henson recommends making the most of down time in larger clinic settings by watching and listening while the clinician works with other riders. “Keep your eyes and ears open all day long,” he says. “The rider the clinician is working with may have the same problems you do.” There is a lot to learn from a clinic and the expert presenting the information. Make the most of your opportunity to improve the skills you and your horse already have and learn something new. Most of all, clinicians want you to enjoy the learning experience.
In The Art of Hackamore Training, Al Dunning and Benny Guitron, with the help of award-winning Western photographer Robert Dawson and writer Deanna Lally, explain how to develop the hackamore horse, from groundwork and key points under saddle to advanced horsemanship maneuvers and cattle work. With more than 150 color photographs, this book is visually stunning and destined to become a classic in the mold of Hackamore Reinsman and Reinsman Of The West, by legendary horseman Ed Connell. Product # 96 $24.95 Authors: Al Dunning and Benny Guitron with Deanna Lally Photography by: Robert Dawson More than 150 color photographs 10 chapters • 136 pages
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